During a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton RailRiders game on June 15, Hughestown Emergency Services members attended the Geisinger Emergency Medical Services Provider of the Year Awards at PNC Field. Three department members were honored for their exceptional service and life-saving deeds.

Foreman Chris Yacovelli and Sergeant Adelio Merlino were nominated, according to officials, for their conduct during a working structure fire in December. While working at the scene, the two pulled a victim from the basement of a blazing house and started CPR as soon as they were safe. Additionally, Merlino kept helping the responding Advanced Life Support team with patient care.

Lieutenant Tyler Jenkins was recognized for his role during the February fire and mass casualty incident at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Dickson City. Alongside Merlino, Jenkins responded by ambulance, assisted during the early stages of the emergency, and helped facilitate the rapid transport of a critically ill patient experiencing an active STEMI to Geisinger Community Medical Center.

Department leaders announced that Merlino and Yacovelli were selected as recipients of the Heroism Award. Officials praised all three nominees for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to serving others, noting that their actions reflect the highest standards of emergency medical services and bring honor to the department and community.