Volunteers Bernie and Bill Stahler have a history with the Emmaus Ambulance Corps spanning more than two decades. To celebrate their work, the Emmaus Ambulance Corps recently hosted a recognition dinner and awarded plaques to the couple. Below is a transcript of the speech delivered by Jeffrey S. Hoffman, ambulance chief, honoring the Stahlers:

"I would like to take this opportunity tonight to give thanks and recognition to two of our long-time members. On behalf of the Borough of Emmaus, and all of the Emmaus Ambulance Corps members, I would like to honor Bill and Bernie Stahler. Bill and Bernie have served the Ambulance Corps from 1991 to 2014 (23 years). Allow me to tell you just how much these fine individuals have served the ambulance corps and the local community over the years:

"Bill joined the Emmaus Ambulance Corps as a volunteer in 1991. He served in the capacity of volunteer EMT for most of his years with the corps. He responded to several thousand EMS calls in the 23 years he served. Bill was also in charge of ambulance maintenance and repair for several years.

"During that time, Bill made sure the ambulances were all in good working order and well taken care of. Also, for many years, Bill was our Upper Milford Township area crew responder. This meant Bill would respond from his home to help the duty crew with calls in the Vera Cruz area where Bill resides.

"On many occasions, Bill offered the extra help the duty crew needed on scene in many difficult situations. During the most recent years here at Emmaus, Bill was on duty most Wednesdays and Fridays, as well as filling in on many weekend EMT shifts. Bill served the corps in many ways and I am sure this does not list all of them.

"Bernie also joined the Emmaus Ambulance Corps as a volunteer in 1991. She served in the capacity of a PA First Responder for many years. Bernie has also responded to many EMS calls over the years. She would respond along with Bill to the Upper Milford Township area calls.

"Over the past 10 years, Bernie has also spent many hours working in the office doing data entry. She has entered countless membership subscriptions into the computer each year. She has also helped Tina and Kerry in the office in many other ways over the years.

"In addition to this, Bernie served on the transport van. Bernie served the community by doing numerous wheelchair transport trips in the local area. This involved getting residents to their doctor's appointments or to a skilled nursing facility so they could get the additional medical care they needed.

"Bernie was always one we could count on to help get the job done. There were many times when she helped us out of a jam when we needed help at the last minute. I am sure this does not list all of her service and accomplishments over the years.

"Both Bill and Bernie attended countless hours of EMS training and classes. Each year, we would get copies of numerous continuing education classes they would attend. One thing you may not know about them is that they are the Upper Milford Township EMA coordinators. They have worked with the township on emergency planning and management for many years.

"So at this time, it is my honor to present Bill and Bernie with appreciation awards. This is a small token of our thanks and appreciation for all of their hard work and service to the residents. We wish them a happy and healthy retirement in the years ahead."