Acts Of Bravery Lead To Awards For Maplewood Police, Fire

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Not everyone reads or hears about the small acts of bravery and heroism police and firefighters display in a given year, but the 200 Club in each county helps by recognizing them once a year with awards. This year, members of both the police and Fire Department in Maplewood were recognized.

The 200 Club of Essex County held its Essex County Valor Awards on Tuesday.

“While everyone was at home working virtually for the past two years because of the pandemic, these fine police officers, firefighters, and first responders did not have that luxury," said Essex County Sheriff Armando Fontoura, who's on the 200 Club's Board of Trustees.

He noted, "They had to show up. The public expected them to show up, protect, and respond to their calls for service. Thankfully, and without regard to their own safety, they responded magnificently."

Maplewood Police Officer Adrian Verdun received a Valor Award for "exhibiting complete disregard for his own safety and well-being while saving others from a house fire," according to a release from the Essex County Sheriff's Office.

Several firefighters also received awards for their actions during a blaze.

Maplewood Firefighters Anthony Parfumi, James Richardella, and Anthony Marinello received Valor Awards for "saving a life after taking swift actions, under very dangerous fire conditions."

Other firefighters and police officers around the county were recognized for saving lives during Hurricane Ida, rescuing a suicidal man, and more.

Since its inception, The 200 Club of Essex County has raised over $2 million to support the spouses of fallen officers and fund college scholarships for their children.

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