First Responder
At every luncheon, we show our appreciation those who serve our community by honoring a first responder for their brave, dedicated service.
Thank you ALL for your brave dedicated service in protecting our community!
Sponsored By:
April
SRO Tamika Brown
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce and Pinnacle Financial Partners presented the First Responder Award to SRO Tamika Brown of the Mount Pleasant Police Department, honoring her more than twenty-five years of service, dedication, commitment, and great attitude in our Mount Pleasant schools. This year, she is serving Belle Hall Elementary School.
February
Lt. Don Calabrese and Administrative Assistant Payten Ridenoure
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce and Pinnacle Financial Partners recently awarded Lt. Don Calabrese and Mount Pleasant Police Department administrative assistant Payten Ridenoure for their "outstanding" dedication in raising funds for Special Olympics South Carolina.
2025
Veterans
We proudly recognized all veterans for their service ahead of Veteran's Day.
Lowcountry Community Chaplaincy
We proudly recognized the incredible Lowcountry Community Chaplaincy for their extraordinary efforts and dedication as this month's First Responder Recognition.
Thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for sponsoring the First Responder Awards and to Nothing Bundt Cakes for the dessert.
Multiple Agencies from May 1 Sullivan’s Island Incident
We proudly recognized the extraordinary efforts of more than 20 local, state and federal agencies who responded to the May 1 Sullivan’s Island hit and run. Their swift, coordinated response reflects the power of collaboration in protecting our community.
Those agencies were: Awendaw-McClellanville Fire Department, Charleston Co. Emergency Management, Charleston Co. Radio Communications, Charleston Co. School District Security & Emergency Management, Charleston Co. Sheriff’s Office, Charleston Co. Volunteer Rescue Squad, Charleston. Co. Emergency Medical Service, City of Charleston Police Department, College of Charleston Dept. of Public Safety, Consolidated Emergency Communications Center, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Isle of Palms Fire Department, Isle of Palms Police Department, Mount Pleasant Fire Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, National Park Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, North Charleston Police Department, South Carolina Dept. of Natural Resources, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, South Carolina Ports Authority, Sullivan’s Island Fire Department, Sullivan’s Island Police Department, and United States Marshal Service
Thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for sponsoring the First Responder Awards and to Nothing Bundt Cakes for sweetening the day with desserts for every agency recognized.
Capt. Chris Sanders
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Capt. Chris Sanders was recognized as April’s First Responder of the Month, sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners with a sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes. Capt. Sanders was nominated for instituting the community's paramedicine program. Specifically he facilitated installing a new ramp on a handicapped van after helping the individual when they broke down on the side of the road.
Lt. Don Calabrese
Mount Pleasant Police Department
At today’s luncheon, we had the honor of recognizing Mount Pleasant Police Department's Lt. Don Calabrese as February’s First Responder of the Month, sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners with a sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes. Lt. Calabrese was nominated for his incredible dedication to the Special Olympics, where he has expanded fundraising efforts, increased community involvement, and strengthened connections between law enforcement and athletes. His leadership in growing the Polar Plunge on Isle of Palms resulted in a record-breaking $55,000 raised.
2024
Senior Officer James Jacksa
Mount Pleasant Police Department
Senior police officer James Jacksa of the Mount Pleasant Police Department was recognized at today's monthly luncheon for his heroic rescue of a non-verbal autistic child from a neighborhood retention pond. His previous lifeguard experience, calm demeanor, and creative problem-solving were crucial in bringing the child to safety and reuniting them with their parents. A special thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their continued support and to Nothing Bundt Cakes for providing the celebratory cake.
Captain Mike Carestio
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
Captain Mike Carestio of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department was honored at today’s monthly luncheon for his innovative work on redesigning the fire trucks. His redesign is aimed at improving the department’s efficiency and reducing response times. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
Captain Mike Carestio
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
Captain Mike Carestio of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department was honored at today’s monthly luncheon for his innovative work on redesigning the fire trucks. His redesign is aimed at improving the department’s efficiency and reducing response times. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
Deputy Fire Chief Richard Scott Hathaway
Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue Department
At this monthly luncheon we were honored to recognize Deputy Chief Richard Scott Hathaway’s upcoming retirement from Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue after 36 years in service. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
Deputy Fire Chief Michael Bowers
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
At this monthly luncheon we were honored to recognize Deputy Fire Chief Michael Bowers from the Awendaw/McClellanville District during his last week of duty before retirement. Thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support. We also extend a special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
Officer Cody Burns
City of Charleston Police Department
Sergeant Dan Eckert
Mount Pleasant Police Department
During Police Memorial Week, we were honored to recognize Officer Cody Burns of the City of Charleston Police Department and Sergeant Dan Eckert of the Mount Pleasant Police Department for their outstanding collaboration. During a recent traffic stop, Officer Burns apprehended a suspect in possession of a stolen check from the Mount Pleasant Chamber. Both Burns and Eckert's vigilance and teamwork exemplify the dedication our first responders have to keeping our communities safe. Both Charleston Police Deputy Chief Thompson and Mount Pleasant Police Chief Arnold commended the officers for their collaboration, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation. A lesson from today is we all need to be cognizant of the recent uptick in mail theft locally. Thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support. We also extend a special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
Captain Eddie Genthert
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
This month's First Responder Recognition was awarded to Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Captain Eddie Genthert. Chief Mixon recognized Genthert for being a change agent in the department. He's added efficiency in responding to structure fires and making a huge impact on recruiting, building culture and setting up the department for a stronger future. His family was present for this honor. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
FTO George Tetanich
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The March First Responder Recognition was awarded to Mount Pleasant Police Department's FTO George Tetanich. Chief Arnold recognized Officer Tetanich for saving the life of a citizen who had overdosed and was found unresponsive after a vehicle collision. He administered NARCAN and the person later recovered at the hospital. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
Firefighter Samantha Mikesell
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
This month's First Responder Recognition was bestowed upon Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Firefighter Samantha Mikesell. Chief Mixon spoke of Firefighter Mikesell’s compassion and ability to lead in difficult situations. Nearly the entire fire department turned out in recognition. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
PFC Barry Sturmer
Mount Pleasant Police Department
This month’s First Responder recognition went to MPPD's Pfc. Barry Sturmer for his compassion and thoughtfulness for a little girl that lost her bike. He couldn't locate the stolen bike so he bought her a new one. Pinnacle Financial Partners sponsored the award—special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes and All American Awards.
2023
SRO Ransom Walters
Mount Pleasant Police Department
K9 Rico & Special Agent Richard Hunton, III
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
This month’s First Responder recognition went to S.C. Law Enforcement Division’s K9 Rico and Special Agent Richard Hunton, III. K9 Rico was one year into his career with SLED when he was killed while assisting in the search for a suspect accused of shooting and injuring two people, including a Charleston County deputy back in September. K9 Rico and Special Agent Hunton also received the Medal of Valor honor. Hunton’s wife Jennifer was in attendance
Sgt. Mike Derosa
Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department
PFC Garcia
Mount Pleasant Police Dept.
First Responder Award: In July, a local agency asked for assistance with a critical incident and needed help with translation. Mount Pleasant Police Department’s PFC Garcia quickly responded helping interview multiple individuals and stayed well beyond her scheduled shift. Her assistance helped this local agency secure an arrest warrant for homicide.
Deputy Mike Costanzo, Ret.
Charleston County Sheriff's Office
Battalion Chief Steve Drozd
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept.
Our monthly First Responder Recognition went to Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Battalion Chief Steve Drozd for his 32 years of service and his championing of mental health services for the department's personnel.
Officer Giovanni Brown
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The First Responder Recognition Award went to Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Officer Giovanni Brown. He responded to a call that an individual was considering ending their life near the Ravenel Bridge. He remained calm and professional throughout the situation even after sustaining injuries during an altercation with the person. The MPPD collaborates with MUSC Health’s Telehealth and they were able to get the person the help that they needed thanks to Officer Brown's courage and heroism.
Isle of Palms Police Dept.
The First Responder Recognition went to eight of the Isle of Palms officers. They were presented with the Medal of Valor presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners for their outstanding service and dedication to the community during the April 7th shooting. This award is a testament to their hard work, bravery, and commitment to keeping our community safe.
Detective Kenny Clark
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The month's First Responder Recognition went to Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Detective Kenny Clark. He's received this recognition before and is well deserving of it again for continuously going above and beyond to protect children from sexual predators and threats.
Capt. Don Wollenbecker
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept.
The First Responder Recognition went to Mount Pleasant Fire Department’s Capt. Don Wollenbecker. He goes above and beyond outside of his regular duties as the CPR Coordinator, which saves many lives. He also oversees the Citizen Response Team Training.
Detective Joseph Tumminelli
Isle of Palms Police Dept.
Isle of Palms Police Department Detective Joseph Tumminelli. There are not a lot of violent crimes that happen on the Isle of Palms. A stabbing occurred and Tumminelli, new to the force, found the suspect and had them in jail in just a few days.
2022
SPO Michael Poore
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
MPPD Chief Arnold presented December's First Responder Award to SPO Michael Poore. SPO Poore bravely rescued a woman in distress in a local neighborhood pond. The First Responder Award is sponsored by Dominion Energy. Special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Lieutenant Ed Middleton
Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department
This month's First Responder Award went to Lieutenant Ed Middleton of the Charleston County Aviation Authority Police Department. The mission of the Charleston International Airport police force is customer service and Lt. Middleton continuously goes above and beyond in his role. Sponsored by Dominion Energy. Special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Chief Luther T. Reynolds
City of Charleston Police Dept
This month's First Responder recognition went to the City of Charleston Police Department's Chief Luther T. Reynolds. After losing his leg and hip to cancer the chief thanked the community for its continuous support. The award is sponsored by Dominion Energy and special thanks goes to Nothing Bundt Cakes.
Todd Campbell, LaParis Kinloch, & Maurice Simmons
Mount Pleasant Public Services
A few of Mount Pleasant Public Services finest crew members aided a resident that fainted while mowing the lawn along their neighborhood route. They called 911 and stayed until help came. Sponsored by Dominion Energy.
Officers St Clare Clinkscales and Gary Reash
Mt Pleasant Police Dept
Mount Pleasant Police Department Deputy Chief Simmons helped the Chamber recognize this month's First Responders, Officers St Clare Clinkscales and Gary Reash, for their genuine consistency in helping a family over a six-month period preventing a tragedy with a mother's drug addiction and mental health issues.
Isle of Palms Fire Department
Fire and Rescue Stations 1 and 2
This month's First Responder Award went to Isle of Palms Fire Department Fire and Rescue Stations 1 and 2 for a water rescue on March 31, 2022. In rough conditions without any additional resources, the team hopped on a jet ski and rescued a windsurfer and his board that was stuck in rough winds and currents.
Sgt. Steve Kudron
Mt Pleasant Police Dept
Our First Responder Recognition this month went to Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Sgt. Steve Kudron. He responded to a juvenile's 911 call after suffering self inflicted life threatening wounds. Because of his swift actions, the juvenile was transported to the hospital and his life was saved.
Mike Demario
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
Our First Responder Recognition this month was awarded to Mount Pleasant Fire Department’s Mike DeMario. DeMario has been with the MPFD for over 20 years without taking a promotion. He takes care of the training facilities and manages the wildfire program. Award sponsored by Dominion Energy.
PFC Dylan French
Mt Pleasant Police Dept
PFC Dylan French was recognized as the First Responder of the Month, sponsored by Dominion Energy. PFC French and Chief Arnold also received the Chamber's newly created and first Purple Heart Award for officers injured in the line of duty. Mount Pleasant Police Department
Deputy Chief Craig Oliverius
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
The First Responder Recognition, sponsored by Dominion Energy, this month went to Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Deputy Chief Craig Oliverius. He was acknowledged and recognized for all of his achievements with the department as he steps into his new role as Fire Chief for the Isle of Palms Fire Department later this month.
FTO Douglas Richards
Mt Pleasant Police Dept
We recognized our First Responder of the month, FTO Douglas Richards who responded to a call involving a distraught person standing on the edge of the Ravenel Bridge. With is training and experience he was able to get the individual off the bridge and connected to appropriate assistance.
2021
FTO Douglas Richards
Mt Pleasant Police Dept
We recognized our First Responder of the month, FTO Douglas Richards who responded to a call involving a distraught person standing on the edge of the Ravenel Bridge. With is training and experience he was able to get the individual off the bridge and connected to appropriate assistance.
Captain Michael “Sean” Kenneally, Ret.,
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
The crowd warmly welcomed the family of the late Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Captain Michael “Sean” Kenneally, Ret., who was posthumously recognized with with month’s first responder recognition.
MPO Santulli
Isle of Palms Police Dept
Isle of Palms Police Department’s MPO Santulli was recognized as the First Responder of the Month. We are proud of the great work that he does to keep IOP safe.
Tony Dennis and Jack Farrell
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
Mount Pleasant Fire Department recognized two of their own, Tony Dennis and Jack Farrell, for going above and beyond after a traumatic injury at a local restaurant left an undesirable mess to clean up.
Chris Puckhaber
Isle of Palms Fire Dept
First Responder of the month went to IOP Firefighter Chris Puckhaber for stepping in while off duty to render aid during an accident and saving a life. Chief Hathaway accepted in his absence.
SPO Rhett Stafford
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Our First Responder Recognition this month went to Mount Pleasant Police Department's SPO Rhett Stafford for his efforts in saving an overdose victim.
FTO Charles Long
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Deputy Chief Tyrone Simmons presented the First Responder of the Award to FTO Charles Long, who intervened and successfully rescued a suicidal youth.
Sgt Matthew Storen
Isle of Palms Police Dept
Isle of Palms Police Department's Chief Kevin Cornett helped us recognize this month's First Responder Award given to Sgt. Matthew Storen for volunteering for many efforts including as a grant coordinator to aid the department in receiving $70,000 in COVID relief funds.
Chief Carl Ritchie
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Chamber President Eddie Phipps was honored to present Mount Pleasant Police Department's Chief Carl Ritchie with our first responder recognition for April. Will Haynie, the Mayor of Mount Pleasant, as well as Council Members Kathy Landing, Gary Santos, Jake Rambo, Howard Chapman, and The Town of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina's Administrator, Eric DeMoura, offered a few kind words of congratulations. After 33 years in law enforcement Chief Ritchie is retiring in May. Chief Ritchie began his law enforcement career in 1988 as a police officer with the City of North Charleston Police Department. In 1989, Chief Ritchie accepted a position as a police officer with the Mount Pleasant Police Department rising through the ranks to his current assignment as Police Chief.
Thank you for your years of service, Chief Ritchie. Happy retirement!
SRO Ransom Walter
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
This month's First Responder recognition was given to Mount Pleasant Police Department (MPPD) School Resource Officer (SRO) Ransom Walter for going above and beyond in his SRO duties. SRO Walters serves as a coach for the James B. Edwards Elementary School's championship basketball team. MPPD Chief Carl Ritchie said that SRO Walters plans to coach at Lucy Beckham High School in the near future.
Battalion Chief Troy Thomas
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
MPFD's Chief Mixon recognized Battalion Chief Troy Thomas for his compassionate servant leadership. He said, “Thomas is an example of what we want to be at the Mount Pleasant Fire Department."
Detective Kenny Clark
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Detective Kenny Clark was our First Responder Recognition this month. In addition to his regular duties, he has worked on child predator cases and this past November collaborated with the SC Attorney General on Operation Playground leading to eight arrests. Mount Pleasant Police Department
2020
Sr Patrol Officer Stafford
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
This month's First Responder award was presented to Sr Patrol Officer Stafford for his multiple felony and drug arrests just the last few months.
Detective Clark
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
This month's First Responder award was presented to Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Detective Clark for his hard work as a member of the Internet Crimes Against Children.
Thank you for your brave dedicated service in protecting our community!
Officer Martin
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Tony Dennis and Glory Cone
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
This month's First Responder award was presented to not one, but two First Responders: Mount Pleasant Police Department's Police Officer Martin for commitment, plus Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Firefighters Tony Dennis and Glory Cone for compassion.
2019
SPO Andrew Scott and K-9 Thor
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
December's First Responder award was presented to SPO Andrew Scott and K-9 Thor of the K-9 unit at Mount Pleasant Police Department. They were were recognized for several instances in which justice was served thanks to these two partners, including an armed robbery arrest, burglary prosecution, overdose victim rescue and defeating an armed threat.
Pictured (from left) are MPCC President Shane Griffin, MPCC Vice President Eddie Phipps, MPPD SPO Scott, MPPD K-9 Thor and MPPD Chief Carl Richie.
Rescue Company 504
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
November's First Responder award was presented to Mount Pleasant Fire Department’s Rescue Company 504. They were were recognized for their quick response during the height of Hurricane Dorian.
Pictured (from left) are Eric Zilaitis, Jeremy Ray, Graham Kent, Anthony Petrucci, Dean Nicholas and Steve Bradley.
Ret. Deputy James Foster
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Sheriff Al Cannon introduced our First Responder of the Month. Ret. Deputy James Foster was recognized for his longevity retiring recently at 81 years young.
School Resource Officers
(Sgt. Salata, Sgt. Santos, SPO Brown, SRO Montano, SPO Sides, SRO Richardson, SPO Gilliard, SPO Gregory, SPO Jones SRO Russell, SPO Hairfield, SRO Walters, SPO Wilson, SRO Jean)
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
At our August Luncheon, we recognized the School Resource officers protecting our Mount Pleasant Schools. They were recognized for helping seniors in our community by providing lawn care in 19 homes during the summer to those who desperately needed it.
They were also were recognized for their work with the children in Mount Pleasant. During the summer they hosted a Safety Camp that gave them an opportunity to interact with the youth in our community!
Ofc. Donley and Pfc. Aponte
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
This month's First Responder award was given to Ofc. Donley and Pfc. Aponte with the Mount Pleasant Police Department for their compassion for a teenager who only owned one pair of pants.
Pfc. Lenny Lipari
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
This month's First Responder award was given to Pfc. Lenny Lipari, School Resource Officer at Mamie P. Whitesides Elementary. He was honored for his work with the school's students, and his diligent efforts to keep them safe every day!
Shane Heims
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
Shane received this month's First Responder award for many reasons. Being a passionate firefighter since the age of 15, he has worked diligently to improve operations with our community's first responders. He is a medical training officer, a tactical medic with the Police department, implemented training to treat K9 dogs in the case of them being injured, and even participated in Captain's testing at the age of 27.
Officer Brian Frances
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Officer Frances was recognized this month for his outstanding work on the murder investigation in the Old Village community of Mt Pleasant.
William Barnes- Division Chief
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
Chief Barnes has been diligent in providing the most up to date training for our emergency responders and teachers. He brought in training so that our emergency responders are better prepared for active shooter situations, as well as high performance CPR training, creating an increase in survivability among CPR patients. He also trained teachers in the area on tourniquet and bleeding treatment for active shooter situations.
Sgt Les Mauldin
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Sgt. Mauldin is not only a kind, dedicated police officer, but an all-around warm-hearted individual. He has helped establish many initiatives in the area, including a book reading program in which he reads books to children at Barnes and Noble each month. He also began a "Cops and Kids Buddy Card" trading card program in which instead of trading cards of athletes or cartoons, kids can trade cards featuring real heroes in the area.
2018
John Weaver
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
John is not only a dedicated member of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department, but is an active duty member of the National Guard. While assisting with the National Guard during the flooding in Georgetown, he helped to save the life of his partner who nearly drowned.
PFC Jonathan Kinder
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Jonathan (seen to the right of the podium) is a police officer at the Mount Pleasant Police Department. He was honored this month because of his dedication to the well-being of our community.
Capt Brian Toohey
Mount Pleasant Fire Dept
Brian is a Captain with the Mount Pleasant Fire Department. He was honored this month because of his dedication to the fire department by working on grants to receive better fire equipment and apparatus.
Sgt Tony Winstead
Mount Pleasant Police Dept
Tony is the Narcotics Unit Supervisor at the Mt Pleasant Police Dept, and a veteran of the US Air Force. With his people-first attitude, he helped to save the life of a heroin addict by convincing them to get into rehab before it was too late.
Jay Michel
Jay, (pictured second from the right) is a local business owner and has been a volunteer Firefighter for the Town of Mount Pleasant for many years.
INSPECTOR CHIP GOOGE
Inspector Googe is the Public Information Officer for the Mount Pleasant Police Department.
He was first on scene with a suicidal subject on the Ravenel Bridge, and talked him out of going through with it, thus saving his life.
MT PLEASANT POLICE DEPT
For the month of May, we recognized the entire Mount Pleasant Police Department for their brave efforts in protecting our community every day.
Because of their hard work, they identified and arrested a suspect responsible for attempted robbery at a restaurant and injuring an employee.