01. Year 1963
In 1963, seven dedicated individuals came together to establish the Vernon Township Ambulance Squad Inc #1, forming the foundation of emergency medical services in our community. These founding members were:
Their vision and commitment laid the groundwork for the life-saving services we provide today.
A significant milestone in our history came when John Seckler generously donated land in Highland Lakes, allowing the construction of our first ambulance building. This act of generosity ensured a home for our squad, solidifying our presence in the community and enabling us to continue our mission of serving Vernon and its residents.
This legacy of dedication and generosity remains the cornerstone of our success.
01.August 15th 1980
In 1980, a group of 18 dedicated individuals came together to establish the Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Squad, driven by a shared passion for serving the community and providing life-saving care.
Their vision and tireless commitment laid the foundation for a trusted emergency medical service provider. The Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Squad grew from their efforts, becoming an integral part of our community’s safety and well-being. Today, we honor their legacy and strive to uphold the values they instilled in our organization.
01. January 2017
To address staffing challenges in its volunteer first aid squads, Vernon Township has partnered with Saint Clare's Health to provide basic life support (BLS) services three days a week, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
01. July 19th 2019
we proudly retired our classic circular patch [Glenwood Pochuck's], believed to be the first worn by our squad, and unveiled our new duty patch.
The new design, created by our dedicated members, honors our traditions, celebrates our history, and reflects our commitment to a bright future.
Since 1980, the Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Corps has been dedicated to providing exceptional service with a strong focus on community care.
New Patch, Same Mission: Serving You.
Press Release Photo
01. December 20th 2020
Unified Numbering System Adopted by Local EMS Agencies
Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Squad joined many other agencies in adopting a unified numbering system, officially becoming 81 EMS. In the months that followed, Vernon Township Ambulance Squad began transitioning toward a similar system, becoming 70 EMS streamlining identification and enhancing coordination across emergency services. This shift reflects the continued effort to improve operational efficiency and collaboration among local EMS providers.
01. September 15th 2023
Atlantic Health Basic Life Support (BLS) was contracted by the Township of Vernon to assist in responding to emergency calls. Under this agreement, Atlantic BLS provides coverage Monday through Friday from 0600 to 1800 hours, ensuring consistent and reliable service during critical daytime hours.
01.September 28th 2023
Union Partnership Spearheaded by Leadership
The first steps toward a union partnership between Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Squad and Vernon Township Ambulance Squad were spearheaded by the Chief of Operations from Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance. This initiative arose in response to persistent manpower challenges faced by one agency, prompting a proactive effort to unify resources and strengthen emergency medical services.
Under the Chief's leadership, both squads engaged in collaborative discussions, setting the foundation for a partnership that would address staffing issues and enhance the delivery of care. This milestone represents a dedicated commitment to ensuring reliable, efficient EMS operations for the Vernon Township community.
01. November 2023
Township Adopted LOSAP.
The establishment of a Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) for EMS agencies in Vernon, NJ, emerged from a collaborative effort involving the Vernon Fire Department, McAfee Fire Department, Pochuck Fire Department, Highland Lakes Fire Department, Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and Vernon Township Ambulance Squad. This united initiative reflected a shared commitment to recognizing and retaining dedicated volunteers who provide essential emergency medical services to the community.
When matters specifically related to LOSAP for EMS arose, the Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Corps spearheaded the initiative, with minor suggestions from Vernon Township Ambulance Squad's Ex-Chief
01. December 14th 2023
Formation of Cooperative Leadership Team Marks New Era for Unified EMS Organizations
The union of two local emergency medical services organizations is now in full swing, and the newly established Cooperative Leadership Team (CLT) has been announced. This leadership team will guide the unified entity as it moves forward to strengthen emergency medical services in the region.
The members of the CLT include:
As part of this collaboration, the CLT has made key leadership appointments to ensure smooth operations and a clear vision for the future:
This milestone signifies a significant step in addressing shared challenges and streamlining efforts to provide exceptional care to the community. The Cooperative Leadership Team is committed to building a strong foundation for the unified organization, ensuring that it continues to meet and exceed the needs of those it serves.
The transition process has progressed rapidly and effectively, highlighting the dedication and collaboration of all parties involved. This announcement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for emergency medical services in the area.
01. December 23rd 2023
On 12/23/2023, the Cooperative Leadership Team (CLT) of the newly unified EMS organization issued an important statement to our partners in police, fire, and EMS.
The CLT, representing the combined efforts of two local EMS organizations, emphasized their commitment to providing seamless, high-quality emergency medical services while fostering collaboration with fellow first responders.
Key leadership roles within the cooperative were also announced:
This statement reaffirmed the shared dedication to enhanced coordination, resource sharing, and exceptional service to the community. The CLT expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support of their partners throughout this transition and their optimism for the future of emergency response in the region.
01. January 7th 2024
One of the first actions of our Chief, was the dedication Station 1, located at 164 Breakneck Road, to be officially known as the Al Monzo Training Center, honoring a man whose dedication, mentorship, and service left an indelible mark on our organization and the Vernon community.
Who Is Al Monzo?
Al Monzo was a devoted member of the Vernon Township Ambulance Squad, serving the organization and township residents for 20 years. He earned his EMT certification in May 2001 and dedicated his life to helping others until his passing on May 10, 2020.
Al's heart of gold and pure soul inspired not only his family—who also became EMTs to serve the community—but countless others. As a crew chief, trustee, and mentor, Al guided new EMTs and first aiders, fostering positivity and excellence.
Although he is no longer physically with us, Al’s legacy lives on in both organizations, in the members he mentored, and now, in the training center that bears his name.
The Al Monzo Training Center serves as a testament to his contributions and will continue to inspire future generations of EMTs and first responders.
"Al may not physically be here, but his spirit will forever watch over us all."
01.March 5th 2024
A press release was submitted to the public announcing the merger of local EMS organizations and the formation of Vernon Emergency Medical Services Inc.. This new entity represents a unified effort to enhance emergency medical care in Vernon Township and surrounding areas, building on a legacy of dedication and service to the community.
01.July 3th 2024
The release of our new patch, commemorating the merger of Glenwood Pochuck Volunteer Ambulance Corps Historical Site and Vernon Township Ambulance Squad Historical Site into the unified Vernon Emergency Medical Services (VEMS).
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