Longwood Fire Company bestows awards

Longwood Fire Company honored some of its own at its annual banquet.

Andrew Yacka (right) receives the McGovern award from Longwood Fire Chief A. J. McCarthy
Andrew Yacka (right) receives the McGovern award from Longwood Fire Chief A.J. McCarthy

The Jim McGovern Service Award was given to Andrew Yacka. Also honored were Barry Smith for his 30 years of volunteer service and Chief A. J. McCarthy for his 20 years in the fire service, according to a fire company press release.

The Jim McGovern Service Award is named for a dedicated Longwood firefighter who died at age 22. McGovern, a University of Delaware graduate, was a top responder during his time at Longwood Fire Company.

“I owe a lot to the guys at Longwood,” Yacka said in the release. “They taught me a lot and helped me become comfortable serving the community.

Last year Yacka, an East Marlborough resident, answered almost 300 calls.

“I’ve was interested in firefighting before I went to college as both my uncle and grandfather were volunteers,” Yacka said in the release. “After school a friend who is a Longwood volunteer invited me to consider joining Longwood. That was two years ago.”

Smith, also an East Marlborough resident, is lieutenant of the fire police and was captain for six years. He also served a term on the board of directors. “I worked at Longwood Gardens and was asked to join,” Smith said in the release. “I had three sons and didn’t become a member until I was 39 years old. Longwood is a good organization and there are a lot of good young people there. The training and equipment is top notch.”

Of his award, Chief McCarthy said serving the community is an honor. “We have an excellent organization with many wonderful members. Everyone is dedicated to protecting the community.”

Longwood Fire Company has served the communities of Kennett, East Marlborough, Pennsbury and Pocopson townships since 1921. Longwood Fire Company provides fire and rescue and emergency medical services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information see www.longwoodfireco.com.

 

 

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