Meet the Officers 2017

Chief Samantha Lloyd

I joined the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad as my three children became young adults and I felt the urge to find something new to challenge myself. I have always enjoyed the medical and science field and as I had to leave behind my career as a Scenes of Crime Assistant in the UK many years ago, I felt becoming an EMT was a good decision for me. I am able to give back to my community and meet great people.

Operations Lt. / Deputy Chief Donna Foster

When I decided to volunteer for an organization, the Berkeley Heights Volunteer Rescue Squad was my first choice. I find it challenging, rewarding, and I am surrounded by Members who selflessly give their time to service this community.

Training Lt. Toni Gestone

I have spent nearly half my life doing medical research, and taking classes for CPR/AED and first aid but whenever I would pass a traffic accident or hear of a major incident with multiple injuries it always bothered me that I didn’t really know how best to help those that had been injured. One of the moms who’s son played on the GL Hockey Team with my son was an EMT for Berkley Heights and invited me to a Squad Open House. After talking with Squad members I decided to give being an EMT a try and have now been a member of the Squad for about 7 years. Being an EMT on the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad is a volunteer opportunity unlike any other. No two calls are ever alike and so you are constantly learning and challenging yourself to think ‘outside the box’. It teaches teamwork, not only within the Squad but with outside agencies as well. Most of all, it gives you the opportunity to do something that really matters to those sick and in need. And it gives you a true perspective on what’s really important in life.

Vehicle Lt. Bill Schulz

I started doing volunteer emergency services in high school as community service and I’ve been doing it ever since. Being a first responder really gives you a sense of community involvement and pride.

Equipment Lt. Joe Plocinski

I have always been community minded and was active in my church’s youth home repair ministry. Joining the BHVRS is a way for me to give back to my own community.

Supply Lt. Kevin Jow

I joined the rescue squad because I enjoy helping people and wanted to give back to the community that I grew up in.

President Howie Meyer

During college, I worked at the Berkeley Heights A&P and one of our regular customers was Alice Keimel, a member of the squad. Alice use to tell myself and two friends I worked with about the squad and how much she enjoyed being a member.
My friends and I thought that it sounded exciting and was something that we wanted to do. So in October 1971, my friends and I joined up.
It’s been a great experience and I’ve met some very nice people on the squad while being able to help many others.
I say a little prayer every day that I’ll be able to keep doing this for many more years to come.

Vice President Joe Savino

I always wanted to be involved with the Rescue Squad since I was a boy scout and earned the First Aid merit badge.
I am the owner of a local small business and have the unique ability to respond to emergency calls 24 hours a day.
After a family emergency in 2013, I experienced firsthand how vital it is for our community to have skilled first responders available 24/7.
Volunteering and helping people is very rewarding.

Corresponding Secretary Arlene Burnett

Having worked in a hospital my entire professional life, I know how good it feels to help people in their time of need. Joining the Squad to help people in my own community seemed like the natural thing to do!

Recording Secretary Peggy Dendinger

Treasurer Secretary Jim Cline

Being part of the Rescue Squad makes me truly feel that I am part of my community.