Three Related Families Account for 150 Years of Service to the Mohawk Valley

When we first set out to honor First Responders with our Friday Salutes, little did we know how deep such a commitment runs within a family. So far this may be the most people, all related who run toward the danger, while the rest of us run away. Meet the McEvoy, Roberts, and Bowers boys.

Today's First Responder nomination comes from Erin Roberts. Erin says, I know typically the nomination is to recognize one First Responder however in my family that is difficult to do when your husband, two sons, four brothers, brother-in-law, nephew and my nieces'boyfriend each deserve the nomination.

The commitment to saving lives began with Erin's Dad who served 61 years with the Newport Volunteer Department. Tom, Thomas and Brandon Roberts, Pat, Mike, Tim and Shannon McEvoy, and Eddie Squire all serve with the Newport Department. Brandon and Shannon are also career Fireman for the Village of Ilion.

The dedication extends to Erin's nephew, Casey who works with the Town of Mohawk Volunteer Department and her nieces' boyfriend Ben serving with the Cortland Volunteer Fire Department.

Of course there is always more involved than just fighting fires. Erin adds that all of these men put in countless hours of training, work details and responding to EMS and Fire scenes.

I could not be more honored to know each and every one of them for continuing to protect and serve the community around us. Our family has over 150 years of fire service to our community, proud is an understatement.

Gentlemen thank you for doing what you do and doing it for so long. Erin thank you for sharing this amazing story and recognizing the efforts they put forth everyday.

,

Do you know a first responder that deserves to be recognized? Tell us about someone who should be honored in central New York - a firefighter, police officer, EMT, forest ranger, paramedic, DEC officers, military, rescuers or any other person first on the scene.

Include their name, a picture and why they should be recognized during 'First Responder Friday,' presented by Martin, Harding & Mazzotti.

We'll honor one first responder every Friday and as a way to say thank you, we'll give them a bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes.

About The Sponsor