County First Responders Honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards

Burlington County’s recent Emergency Services graduation was highlighted by the awarding of the county’s Lifetime Achievement Award to two longstanding first responders for their extraordinary accomplishments in support of emergency services in the community-at-large.

George Jackson Jr., of Tabernacle, a member of the Tabernacle Rescue Squad since 1973, was the EMS recipient of the award, while Burlington County Fire Marshal Michael J. Reed was recognized for his long career in firefighting, dating back to 1972 when he first joined the Riverton Fire Department.

“Each of these gentlemen has an incredible history of accomplishments, all of which underscores their dedication to the protection of the citizens of Burlington County,” said Freeholder Mary Ann O’Brien. “But above and beyond that, after many years of answering alarms, they continue to serve us.”

Jackson holds the title “Captain Emeritus” with the Tabernacle Squad, where he served as chief for 25 years. He had received many commendations, including the Distinguished Service Award (1995) for the Burlington County “200 Club,” and also was recognized in 1998 by the Burlington County prosecutor for his heroic rescue of an elderly woman from a vehicle submerged in icy water.

He currently serves as Burlington County deputy EMS coordinator and was part of a team of 26 ambulances that responded to the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2011.

Reed, who is also a past member of the Palmyra Fire Department, hails from a fire service family that spans some 175 years of service—and counting. His career as a fire marshal began with a local appointment in Palmyra in 1988. In 1993, he was appointed an assistant fire marshal for the county and then, in 2010, promoted to his current position of Burlington County fire marshal.

He is a member of many local and state fire advisory boards and associations, and is certified to teach several courses in firefighting. He has attended the National Fire Academy for courses in Juvenile First Setter Intervention, Interview/Interrogation Techniques and Courtroom Testimony.

Burlington County’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes first responders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in the advancement of public safety.

Reed and Jackson received the award at the graduation ceremony on June 28, at which more than 100 trainees received certificates for their training accomplishments.

- Provided by the Office of the Burlington County Freeholders