L-R LFD Chaplain Kate Mackie, AL Post 32 Service Officer David Laycock, Fire Lieutenant Adam Schmid, Firefighters Tyler Vermeesch, Alex Giancecchi, David Dilernia, LFD Chief Robert Jennison, and LFD Deputy Chief Wade Clay.
LIVONIA - (Sept. 11, 2024) – Friends and members of the Myron H Beal American Legion Post, American Legion Department of Michigan Commander Dan Cooper, City of Livonia Mayor Maureen Broen, Livonia Police Chief Thomas Goralski, Livonia Fire Chief Robert Jennison, Livonia police officers, and firefighters gathered at the Post to remember the events of September 11, 2001, and recognize the contributions first responders make in the community.
Post Commander Bill Hollen was the master of ceremonies for the event. Post Chaplain Tom Catterall opened with a moving prayer for all in attendance, followed by the presentation of colors by the American Legion Post 32 Honor Guard.
Livonia Mayor Brosnan and AL Department Commander Cooper delivered speeches of remembrance, encouragement, and faith in our great country.
This is an annual event to remember the tragic day of September 11, 2001, but also an event where the post and the City of Livonia leadership recognize the efforts of Livonia First Responders. This year, we recognized one police officer and four firefighters.
Police Officer Joshua Edwards was recognized for apprehending robbery suspects on June 16, 2023. The suspects are suspected of having robbed other pharmacies in the area before June 16, when a call came that a pharmacy had been robbed by two males wearing ski masks and fled in a blue sedan.
After a brief vehicle pursuit, the vehicle crashed at Merriman and Plymouth Road. Three suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Officer Edwards continued his pursuit on foot and apprehended one of the suspects as he attempted to climb over a wall. The other two suspects were apprehended shortly after.
On December 22, 2023, Livonia Fire Station 6 Engine/Squad was dispatched to a house fire. Upon arrival, Fire Engineer David Dilernia coordinated with Fire Station 3 to suppress a fully involved garage fire. Firefighters Alex Giancecchi, Tyler Vermeesch, and Fire Lieutenant Adam Schmid entered the home to search for individuals. An unresponsive person was in the kitchen of the home and immediately moved through the front door to LFD personnel to begin resuscitation efforts. At risk to their safety, the firefighters reentered the house to continue their search. No other victims were found.
The victim was transported to Trinity Livonia, where, unfortunately, she succumbed to smoke inhalation.
In recognition of the skill, knowledge, and superior performance that they all exuded in the line of duty. The Myron H. Beal American Legion Post 32 honored their dedication and commitment as a first responder in remembrance of 9/11.
