| | It all began on April 5, 1962 when 26 Waretown residents met in the local Municipal building to take steps to form a first aid squad. In the group were five people, who between them already had 49 years experience as members of the Barnegat Squad, although they were Waretown residents. Those five charter members were: Joseph Reid, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Brewer and co-founders Hazel Clineman and William Meade.
At the organization meeting it was decided to also start a cadet squad and this was formed shortly after. The charter members were cadet teenagers Bob and Kenneth Clineman, Barbara Brewer-Schmidt, Carol Brewer-Biddulph and Larry Leonard. The group started out with a used 1957 Cadillac ambulance. Through the cooperation of the Waretown Volunteer Fire Department, space was made available for the rig in the Firehouse. Previously it had to be stored outside.
The squad went into full operation on June 12, 1962. In 1966, the Ocean Township Board of Education made available to the squad the land on which they are now situated. On this property was also located the "Little Red Schoolhouse." This one-room building dated back to 1875 and was abandoned in 1959. Squad members made the necessary repairs and used the building for training and meetings. A new three-bay, brick building was built and dedicated in December 1969. In the meantime, a new 1970 ambulance was purchased, retiring the 1957 rig. In 1975, squad members Vern and Raymond Dockery donated a used panel truck. This was converted to a light extrication unit.
The Waretown First Aid Squad is proud of its accomplishments since its inception 47 years ago. All members are dedicated to serving their community. Now --- all we need is more volunteers. Training, uniforms and insurance are provided at no cost.
Remember: the life you help save could be a loved one, a friend or neighbor. For more information contact the Waretown First Aid Squad at 609-693-3699, write to P.O. Box 428, Waretown, NJ 08758 or e-mail wfasquad42@verizon.net.
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