By Victoria Hurley-Schubert, Staff Writer
Former Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad EMT Michael Kenwood is being posthumously honored for his sacrifice during Hurricane Irene by the governor’s office.
He was among those honored this year with the Governor’s Jefferson Award on May 1. Elizabeth Frenkel, his widow, accepted the award at the Newark Museum.
The Jefferson awards recognize the volunteerism of New Jersey residents of all ages and backgrounds who have enhanced the quality of life of their communities through service. This year, more than 1,400 nominations were submitted to honor these outstanding citizens of the Garden State. Twenty were awarded.
”The award recognizes Michael’s compassionate, dedicated, and altruistic service to those in need, and we hope it inspires others to find ways to give back to their community,” said Peter Simon, president of the rescue squad and Mr. Kenwood’s closest friend.
Mr. Kenwood, a former East Windsor resident, was attempting to reach a submerged car off Rosedale Road in Princeton Township on Aug. 28, 2011, early in the morning at the height of the hurricane to check if any occupants were trapped inside. He was swept away in swift currents.
”All of us were deeply impacted by Michael’s death. Michael’s family lost their beloved son, brother, husband and father,” wrote Mr. Simon in the nomination letter submitted by the mayor and Township Committee. “The Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad lost a devoted member and pillar of their organization. And the Princeton community lost a hero who dedicated himself to helping those in need. Though Michael is no longer with us physically, he has left behind a legacy. As others follow his example of helping those in need, our community will continue to reap the benefits of his dedicated altruistic service.”
Members of Mr. Kenwood’s family were at the Tuesday ceremony, including his mother, Sheila Kenwood Lobel.
”Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno gave a moving short speech about Michael selflessly participating in the attempt to rescue the possible occupants of a partially submerged car. Emphasis was put on the importance of recognizing people from all walks of life to honor them for reaching out to help others in some rather spectacular ways, with the hope that other New Jersey residents who read about them might be inspired to do something for humanity,” said Ms. Lobel.
”It is very moving to have Michael recognized. He was one of many who responded during Hurricane Irene, as he and others did, and continue to do so, in order to help people in need. For us, his family, his loss has been overwhelming, and it is very difficult to attend events where he is being honored.
”We know how important it is for us to be there, and appreciate that so many people have taken note and pay their respect to him. I, myself, hope that others are inspired to learn about these recipients and realize that they, too, can reach out in many ways and touch lives.”
”Michael Kenwood’s selfless legacy will no doubt go on to inspire others to community service for a long time to come,” said Lt. Gov. Guadagno. “When his town needed him, Michael was there, like he always was, protecting his neighbors from harm. The term hero is often overused, but in describing Michael Kenwood, hero somehow seems inadequate to fully appreciate his valor and sacrifice.”
”He will be missed and his contribution and service to our community will be remembered forever,” said Mayor Chad Goerner. “The award is an opportunity to share his legacy with a wider audience something he truly deserved.”
Mr. Kenwood will also be honored at the 2012 National EMS Memorial Service in Colorado Springs this summer.
