The Arundel Volunteer Fire Department is proud to nominate Matthew Hafler for the Anne Arundel County Volunteer Firefighters Association Firefighter/EMT of the Quarter. Matt joined our department two years ago and in that short time has significantly supported our station and community.

Although Matt is only eighteen years old, he has become a volunteer firefighter and EMT. Matt completed the rigorous training courses while not only attending high school but also participating in all company fund raising and public relations events.

When Matt is not in school, he spends most of his free time at the station. Most afternoons and weekends Matt can be found at the station running calls, cleaning equipment or studying for class. To date this year he has responded to over 100 engine calls and close to 200 EMS calls.

The Chief and Officers of the company appreciate his commitment and enthusiasm to serving the Crofton, Davidsonville, and Gambrills communities through fire prevention and protection.

It is critical that our members help raise funds for new equipment purchases. Matt has been a dedicated participant in the fundraising efforts. During the month of December the AVFD sells Christmas trees at the station. This fundraiser is time and labor intensive.  Matt not only did his ‘shift’ but volunteered most evenings and weekends until all the trees were sold.

Matt has become a member that the department can count on. He is eager to help out in any way he can from setting up pit-beef sales at 6:00AM on Saturday mornings to helping Santa Clause ride on the top of the engine for hours during the week of Christmas. He is a hard-working, dedicated and effective volunteer who is always willing to go the extra mile.

We feel that he exemplifies the spirit, dedication and hard work without which a volunteer department cannot run.

Julie Peterson
President