On Monday, April 17, 2006, the Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association (FCVFRA) held their 13th Annual Volunteer Fire and Rescue Recognition Program. The program, which took place at the Walkersville Volunteer Fire Company, provided an opportunity to recognize a few of the many contributions made by volunteer in providing fire and rescue service to the citizens of Frederick County. The program featured the presentation of fourteen awards, and the induction of nine individuals into the Hall of Fame.

A variety of awards presented to individuals and fire and rescue departments across the county. Local awards for individuals and departments included the following.

The Clint Hughes Award was presented to the Guardian Hose Company of Thurmont for their year-round efforts in promoting fire prevention in the Thurmont community and trying to reach all segments of the population, especially the young and the elderly. Two facets of the year-round program are regular visits to the elementary school and the senior citizens center.

The Firefighter of the Year Award was presented to Lt. Andy Mathias of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company for his actions in assisting other firefighters during a training exercise. Lt Mathias controlled the fire and assisted in the removal of two remaining crew members from the structure. The other crew members had previously exited leaving two members behind and the fire not controlled.

The Millard M. "Mick" Mastrino Trainer/Safety Award, which is sponsored by the United Steam Fire Engine Company and the Mastrino Family, was created in memory of Mr. Mastrino to recognize the contributions of an individual in the area of fire and rescue instruction and safety training. It was presented to Alan Brauer of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company in recognition of his efforts in training, especially those related to hazardous materials and safety, within the Department and the area. Mr. Brauer has also served on a number of committees within the Department and the County and is a former officer in the FCVFRA.

The Mumma Outstanding Service Award, which is sponsored by the Mumma Family of Rocky Ridge, was presented to Alan Hurley of the Rocky Ridge Volunteer Fire Company in recognition of his many years of outstanding service to the Department and the Rocky Ridge community. He is currently serving the Department as an Assistant Chief and is consistently one of the top ten responders. He has also assisted with various efforts at the County level.

A highlight of the program was the induction of nine new members into the FCVFRA Hall of Fame. Individuals inducted into the Hall of Fame must have at least 10 years of distinguished service to their respective department or the County fire and rescue service. Past Chief Raymond "Bud" Stull, Jr. of the Lewistown District Volunteer Fire Department; Past President Randolph Waesche of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service; and Assistant Secretary of the Guardian Hose Company, Treasurer of the Thurmont Community Ambulance Service, and FCVFRA President Judith White were inducted along with six other indivduals into this year’s Hall of Fame. Each received a brass card commemorating their induction and a certificate.

— Clarence White, Thurmont