The Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary held a gala celebration at the Leonardtown Fire Station on October 17, 2009 in recognition of their Seventy-five years of dedication and service to the Leonardtown Volunteer Fire Department. The year long planning of the festive event went off without a hitch. The hall was richly decorated in black and white with beautiful floral arrangements adorning the tables. The members of the Auxiliary were introduced by Fire Department President Wayne Miedzinski and escorted to a large head table after an hour of hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Past Chief Kennedy Abell, who introduced the guest from other fire service organization, local politician and past members of the auxiliary. Following the presentation of colors by the Southern Maryland Volunteer Firemen’s Association Honor Guard and invocation, a delicious dinner was served that was catered by Rita B. Catering.

The celebration continued after dinner with a brief memorial service to celebrate those member of the auxiliary who had the foresight to start the organization and work tirelessly to continue its prosperous history of service to the fire department and our community. Ms. Mary Jane Scully, who has served the auxiliary for 58 years, presented outstanding remarks to the gathering in her own poetic fashion and was the highlight of the evening. Following Mary Jane’s remarks was several presentations to the active members of the auxiliary from current Auxiliary President Katherine Pilkerton. The Fire Department had provided to the Auxiliary in their budget to pay the expenses of the banquet as a small token of our appreciation for all they have done for the department over the years. The membership also presented each of the auxiliary members with a lovely watch and a new laptop computer and printer for their office. Presentations were also made on behalf of President Obama, Congressman Hoyer who stopped by during the evening, Senator Mikulski and Cardin and Governor O’Malley. Commendations were presented by State Senator Roy Dyson, Delegate John Wood, and the County Commissioners. The evening ended with an opportunity for old friend to socialize and share stories of the many struggles and great accomplishment of the Auxiliary during the last seventy-five years. During those years, the Auxiliary has provided financial support, purchased two utilities, a van, cascade system, made all of the payments on our first ladder truck, countless sets of turnout gear and many other items to numerous to mention. The fire departments success is directly related to the commitment made by the Auxiliary and the department’s members are forever grateful. Congratulations, we stand beside you with pride and wish you continued success in the years to come.