Full dress blues were the norm at the last Wyckoff Township Committee meeting as the council awarded commendations and promotions. Residents, family, friends and colleagues from Wyckoff PD and Wyckoff’s Volunteeer FD packed the chambers for the ceremonies.  The supporters in attendance covered every generation in Wyckoff, from some of her youngest citizens to her oldest. An event of this stature occurs every couple of decades, and the crowd which appeared near 200 was testament to the deep roots Wyckoff’s first responders have in the community.

It was beyond standing room only at town hall with spectators fillings the seats, lining the side aisles, and three deep in the back; a line of people also filled the outer hallway where they could only hear the speakers. The Wyckoff FD chaplain set the tone in reminding all in attendance of Wyckoff’s unique nature, her history, and the bonds that tie a community together. The event also offered a reminder that, while twons often high professionals from neighboring municipalities, Wyckoff is served well served by many of their own who work and live within her borders.

Recognized amongst the first responders was Bob Shannon, the township administrator. Another resident of Wyckoff, the Township Committe recognized him for a recent award bestowed in honor of his long service of leadership in the BSA. It was appropriate that in listing the numerous Wyckoff community organizations Bob involves himself, that Committee member David Connolly remembered Bob’s father who died in the line of duty as a police officer in Orange, NJ.