Suffolk News-Herald

A prestigious award that has never been presented by the Nansemond-Suffolk Rescue Squad was awarded to a charter member during the organization’s annual awards and installation banquet recently at the Holland Community Center. Dave Palmer of the Norfolk Fire Department was the guest speaker.

Deputy Chief Gordon Worrell, master of ceremonies for the evening’s festivities, and Suffolk Fire Chief Mark Outlaw, each gave a brief talk on the subject, &uot;Where we were 10 years ago, where we are today, and where we are going in the partnership between the Fire Department and the Rescue Squad, for providing Emergency Medical Services to the City of Suffolk.&uot;

Afterward, Palmer Clarence Burton, a charter member, was presented the &uot;Lifetime Achievement Award&uot; for 43 years of service. He recently had retired from the squad.

In addition, awards were presented to Judy Shuck, BLS Provider for 2003; Shara Diggs, ALS Provider for 2003; Stacy Brown, Outstanding Operational Officer for 2003; Barbara Rayburn, Outstanding Administrative Officer for 2003; Robert W. &uot;Rusty&uot; Hundley, and Squad person of the Year for 2003.

Life member certificates were presented Jeff Elmore, Richard Hurdle and Jeff James, three members who had 10 consecutive years of active service with the squad.

Tony Stewart, career supervisor, presented the gag ‘Tony’ awards to Elizabeth Nelms, Chris Smith, Rich Childress, and Melvin Smith.

Gordon Worrell surprised Stewart with a &uot;Tony,&uot; and members were advised to be careful what they did or said because they could receive such an ‘honor’ at the next banquet.

Dave Palmer installed the following officers for 2004: W. Melvin Smith Jr., president; Jeff. Elmore, vice president; Lisa Snelgrove, secretary; Barbara Rayburn, treasurer; Larry Myers, training officer; and Robert W. &uot;Rusty&uot; Hundley, chief.

A delicious meal was provided by Holland’s Produce.Wayne Umphlett was the DJ for the dance that followed.