HISTORY OF THE GREEN BROOK RESCUE SQUAD
In 1950 Green Brook Township started to grow in population due to the new homes being build and to the influx of new residents. The need for a First Aid and Rescue Squad of its own was realized by a group of Township men. These men became the Charter members of the organization that they founded at the first meeting, which was held November 6, 1950 at 8:00 PM in George Seonbuchner’s garage, which became, for a short time, the Squad’s temporary headquarters.
Those present were:
Harold Bishop Arnold O’Leary
George Carlson Michael Quinn
John Conway Christian Schnitzpahn
William Corbett George Riznik
James Durham George Seonbuchner
Al Kelchner Fred Skove
Donald Luther Frank Stahl
Harry McAndrews Wilbur Stokey
Lawrence McAndrews Charles Ungaretta
W. Joseph Mulvany Richard VanAllen
Charles Nagy Ernest Wefer
At this meeting the Green Brook Rescue Squad was officially organized with the above Charter member for the sole purpose of rendering first aid and transportation to those who were victims of an accident or illness regardless of race, creed or color.
On November 26, 1950, the second meeting was held at the same location, and the Constitution and By-Laws were adopted, a Fund Drive was organized with a goal set for $1000.00, the first Instruction period was held under the guidance of Mr. Nagy and the Rescue Squad became a reality and was on it’s way.
The year of 1951 was a year of many firsts for this organization and also for the Township. The first formal installation of Officers was held in January with the following elected to office by the membership:
President – Charles Nagy Captain – George Seonbuchner
VP – Arnold O’Leary 1st Lt. – George Riznik
Secretary – Christian Schnitzpahn 2nd Lt. – Ernest Wefer
Treasurer – James Durham Sgt. – Michael Quin
Hist. – Richard VanAllen
The next first for the Squad and also the Township was the purchase of the first ambulance, a 1938 LaSalle from Fanwood.
Next they were faced with problems such as an alarm system, housing of equipment and insurance coverage. The alarm system was settled by devising a telephone call system, which was proved satisfactory. The continuing success of this system is due to the donated time and effort of people both in and out of the organization. Some are:
Green Brook Inn (owner – J. & G. Riznik)
Blue Hills Motel (owner – Peter Elimore and Family)
Rainbow Motel (owner – Mr. And Mrs. William Ashton)
As to housing of the squad and its equipment, the were indebted to several residents of the Township, the official body of the township and to their brothers in service, The Green Brook Township Volunteer Fire Company, for space to hold meeting and keep equipment until the building was erected and in use.