VHC inducts three into its Hall of Fame

(9/28) For the first time in its history, at its 141st award banquet, the Vigilant Hose Company inducted three members of the Company into its perspicuous Hall of Fame. This year’s recipients were Julie Davis, Denny Stahley and Mary Lou Little.

The recipients are nominated by current Hall of Fame members and are chosen based upon having made a lasting contribution to “the department, the community, and the region.”

Recipient Julie Davis, wife of Hall of Fame member Mayor Frank Davis, was recognized for her 42+ years of service to the Company as a member of the Auxiliary. According to the President, Tim Clarke, Davis was the principal behind the scenes mover and shaker at most of the Company’s fundraising events. “Regardless of the request, regardless of the hour and regardless of the sacrifice required, she never said ‘no’.”

“Her support and presence at just about every function of the organization is taken for granted and when they are not in attendance, ultimately, the questions of their whereabouts are asked and if everything is okay. That is a testament of her dedication and commitment to the Vigilant Hose Company.”

Denny Stahley joined the company in 1968, and has worn many hats over the years, including operational and administrative positions. Clarke noted that Stahley was always visible at fundraising events and instrumental in setting them up. “Stahley can always be located early in the morning at the fire station preparing coffee for everyone and making sure everyone has a good start to their day.

“Stahley,” Clarke continued, “enjoys working with the supporting efforts of his wife, son, daughter and grandchildren who are also active in the Company. Stahley served on several committees throughout the year.” Clarke praised Stahley for his efforts at “keeping track of all the sick and ill of the organization and making sure those individuals know that the organization is thinking about them and offering any support necessary to recover successfully. Stahley is a pleasure to be around. He has a positive, supportive attitude and has an outstanding sense of humor.”

Last but not least, Mary Lou Little was inducted for her role in salvaging the old Emmitsburg Ambulance Company and overseeing its merger with the Vigilant Hose Company back in 2018.

Clarke recounted Little’s 26-year involvement in the Ambulance Company, from her joining as a simple EMT back in 1992 to eventually rising to the role of President. Little, Clarke said, “worked hard to maintain the Ambulance Company as a viable organization.” Her determination was tested mightily, Clarke said, and while some individuals would have walked away, she “kept fighting and eventually got the Ambulance Company back on its feet.” These difficult times eventually led to the merger of the two companies, and we are all better for it, said Clarke.

Davis, Stahley and Little join Frank Davis, Austin Umbel, Steve Hollinger, Doug Orner, Jim Click, Dot Davis, Bob Rosensteel, Wayne Powell, Cliff Shriner, Steve Valentine, James Kittinger, John Glass, Tim Clarke, Carl White, Bill Boyd, Mike Orndorff, Gabe Baker and Chad Umbel, Scott Maly, and Jo Ann Boyd in the Company’s Hall of Fame.