By MARIEKE ANDRONACHE

Special to The Press

Ontelaunee Park was the scene of a special gathering on June 30.

Residents from across the four Northwestern Lehigh townships came out to show their support and appreciation to all the volunteer firefighters in the area.

“We wanted to bring the community together in a time where there is so much negativity in the world,” said Lynn Township Supervisor Ron Jerdon, who sits on the board of the Northwestern Lehigh Firefighter Foundation.

“To bring the community together and bring all the firefighters and their families knowing that we fully support all the sacrifices that they make throughout the year.”

Jerdon explained how the foundation was formed shortly after the deaths of New Tripoli firefighters Zach Paris and Marvin Gruber, who perished in the line of duty on Dec. 7, 2022.

The goal of the foundation is to help with the needs of local firefighters, as well as cover costs for the monument dedicated to Northwestern Lehigh’s fallen firefighters, which they would like to unveil at next year’s picnic.

“We have four firefighters, which represents the four firefighting companies in our school district,” Jerdon said. “Their station numbers are going to be on each firefighter.”

The inscription is as follows: “In eternal gratitude for the courage and selfless sacrifice of all firefighters past, present and future.”

A special panel, to be known as The Last Alarm, will have the names of all firefighters of the area who perished in the line of duty.

Looking at Northwestern residents mingling with firefighters from regional stations, Jerdon reflected on the day.

“Look at today,” he said. “It’s a very hot and humid day, and I think we have a great turnout.”

New Tripoli Firefighter Derek Dorney has been with the company for four years.

“Shows the community cares about us,” said Dorney, visibly moved by the large picnic turnout.