Contributed Photo
Thomas Lenart Sr. (left) and Derby Mayor Rich Dziekan.
Thomas Lenart Sr., a former Derby police officer and long-time emergency responder, was awarded the George A. Ganung Volunteer of the Year Award Monday at the State Capitol in Hartford.
The award was given during the 2018 Connecticut EMS Awards Ceremony.
His certifications and experience in the emergency services could fill a dictionary.
The George A. Ganung award is given to recognize and commend a volunteer for his/her dedication to the service of others in his/her community.
Lenart has been a volunteer with the Derby Fire Department since 1973. He’s been an emergency medical technician since 1979.
He was the chief of the Derby Storm Engine Company Ambulance and Rescue for 23 years.
During a 2010 Q & A, a Valley Indy reporter asked him what he liked most about being a chief at the Storms.
“The people,” Lenart said. “The public. You didn’t get a “thank you” on every call, but the ones who you least expected appreciation from, showed their thanks the most. People don’t forget you and the impact you had on them. I was at Stop and Shop one day and this lady came up to me and said, “You helped me when my son was in a bike accident, I’ll never forget that.”
And watching the kids grow in the firehouse, seeing them come in as 16, 17-year-old kids and seeing them go on to public safety careers. That’s the coolest thing (Lenart’s son Tom and David are both firefighters).”
