Volunteer firefighters in the Eastern Salisbury Fire Department were recognized for their service to the community at the fire department's annual recognition banquet held Nov. 1 at the Banana Factory in Bethlehem.

The event also recognized the fire department's 25th anniversary as an organization.

Fire Chief Dave Tomcics traced the fire department's heritage to two predecessor organizations that merged in 1989 to form the current volunteer firefighting organization. Tomcics recognized former chiefs of the fire and rescue department and the Eastern Salisbury Ambulance Corps, which was dissolved in 2009.

Tomcics said the strength of the firefighting organization serving the eastern portion of the township is the direct result of the spirit of volunteerism displayed by the members of the department throughout its history.

James Brown, 4th Ward commissioner for the township, and president of the board of commissioners, thanked the organization for the fire protection and rescue services the volunteers provide to township residents. Brown presented a donation to Tomcics for use in the department's operations.

State Rep. Dan McNeill, D-133rd, presented a legislative proclamation thanking the volunteers for their service and recognizing the fire department's anniversary.

Tomcics presented volunteers with mementoes recognizing their individual years as volunteers.

Deputy Chief Dennis Takacs Jr. received special recognition for reaching his 20-year service anniversary. His name is being added to a plaque at the fire station recognizing volunteers.

Western Salisbury fire personnel covered for Eastern Salisbury while they enjoyed their banquet.