(Courtesy of Borough of Bergenfield) The Borough of Bergenfield officially declared the week of May 6 as EMS Week, recognizing the selfless dedication and service of the Bergenfield Volunteer Ambulance Corps (BVAC). This took place at a borough mayor and council meeting, joined by state and county dignitaries, including Assemblyman Chris Tully and Bergen County Commissioner Tom Sullivan. Representatives from multiple levels of government, the U.S. House of Representatives, the New Jersey State Assembly, and the Bergen County board of commissioners. The Bergenfield mayor and council presented proclamations in recognition of BVAC’s unwavering commitment to the community.
For over 80 years, the BVAC has remained a vital lifeline for Bergenfield residents, staffed entirely by volunteers who respond to more than 2,000 emergency calls annually. Chief Ryan Shell spoke at the event, paying tribute to his team’s extraordinary commitment and highlighting their exceptional readiness.
“These are the men and women who drop everything at a moment’s notice to respond to your call for help,” Chief Shell said. “They do it because they care, because they believe in serving their fellow residents, no matter the hour, no matter the weather, no matter the circumstance.”
He also underscored BVAC’s extraordinary efficiency, noting, “While the average response time in Bergen County is 16 minutes, BVAC’s average is just over 3 minutes. That’s thanks to dedicated volunteers, strategic ambulance placement and the support of our community.”
Rabbi Yaakov Neuburger, the head rabbi of Congregation Beth Abraham, reflected on the emotional impact of the evening: “This past week I was privileged to witness the palpable kiddush Hashem in Town Hall when representatives of the state and town recognized the accomplishments of 911/BVAC, and the model of dedication, expertise, speed and compassion that they are for all volunteer corps throughout the state.”
Since its founding in 1941, BVAC has been a constant presence during both everyday emergencies and national crises. From 9/11 to the COVID-19 pandemic, its members have continuously answered the call even when that meant risking their own lives.
Bergenfield’s EMS Week not only honors these extraordinary volunteers but also serves as a call to action for others to join the effort. As Chief Shell noted, “There is no greater gift than the ability to serve others. If you want to make a difference, if you want to literally save lives, visit
www.bergenfieldambulance.org.”
