Members of the Vera Cruz Fire Department, or, more officially, Citizens’ Fire Company of Upper Milford Township, gathered Aug. 19, at Citizen’s Fire Company #2 social hall, along Pennsylvania Avenue in Emmaus, to honor long-time members at their annual recognition banquet, which this year coincides with the fire company’s 75th anniversary since its founding in 1942.

The banquet began with a U.S. Congressional proclamation presented by Charlie Dent, Rep., U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 15th congressional district, lauding the fire department’s 75 years of community service.

After welcoming comments by “Uncle Jeffrey” Tapler, members enjoyed a banquet meal followed by remarks from Robert Reiss, former chief of the Emmaus Fire Department.

Emily Fair, president of the department’s Ladies Auxiliary, and the fire department’s treasurer, was named firefighter of the year for being the first woman in Vera Cruz Fire Department history to complete the Bucks County Community College Firefighter One fire training course. The 192-hour course, held from January to May, is held in Lehigh County annually for area volunteers so they do not have to travel to Bucks County Fire Academy in Doylestown. The course provides volunteer firefighter certification that is recognized throughout the country.

Firefighter Edgar Hausman was recognized for his 50-year milestone as a member of the fire department.

Three members were recognized for a total of 188 years of combined service. Cy Mohr, has been with the department for 66 years, Carl Schell and Bill Stahler each were recognized for 61 years of membership.