Community Corner
5 First Responders With A Lasting Legacy In Bernardsville-Bedminster
The service and commitment of these remarkable individuals continue to inspire today's firefighters, police officers and EMTs.
Bernardsville-Bedminster is fortunate to have dedicated first responders — police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and search and rescue teams —who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Their commitment carries forward the legacy of those who paved the way, demonstrating courage and dedication every day.
In partnership with T-Mobile, Patch is honoring the first responders who came before them—individuals whose impact continues to shape Bernardsville-Bedminster. Today, we’re highlighting five remarkable figures who left a lasting mark on our community.
1. Officer Thomas Finnerty Jr. (Bedminster Township Police Department)
Officer Thomas Finnerty Jr. retired in February 2021 after 35 years of distinguished service with the Bedminster Police Department. Appointed in 1986, he graduated from the 27th Basic Municipal Police Class at the Morris County Police Academy and was twice named “Officer of the Year,” in 1987 and 1992. Over the course of his career, he earned four lifesaving medals and served on the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Organized Crime/Narcotics Task Force. Known for building strong relationships with residents and local businesses, Finnerty was praised by colleagues as both a devoted public servant and a true friend.
2. Deputy Chief Eric Geleta (Bernards Township Police Department)
Deputy Chief Eric Geleta retired in July 2024 after 29 years of distinguished service with the Bernards Township Police Department. His retirement was formally recognized by the Township Committee with a resolution passed on July 23, honoring his decades of leadership and dedication. The resolution praised Geleta for serving “in a dignified, faithful and professional manner” and for “always put[ting] others before yourself.” His contributions to the department and the broader community left a lasting impact on public safety and the quality of life in Bernards Township.
3. Mark Tamke (Bernardsville Fire Company No. 1 and First Aid Squad)
Mark Tamke, a devoted member of the Bernardsville Fire Company #1 and First Aid Squad, passed away in March 2025 after more than 15 years of dedicated service to his community. Since joining the department in 2008, Tamke served in many key roles, including Brush Truck Driver, Engine 104 Driver, Trustee and most recently, Vice President. He also led numerous committees, including as Head Trustee and Chair of Fundraising, and was beloved for his annual role as Santa Claus during the department’s Santa Run. Remembered for his pride in representing his hometown and his unwavering commitment to service, Tamke leaves behind a legacy of kindness, leadership and community spirit.
4. Sgt. Peggy Corsentino (Bernards Township Police Department)
Sgt. Margaret “Peggy” Corsentino, the first woman to serve as sergeant in the Bernards Township Police Department, retired in March 2022 after more than 22 years of service. Her retirement was honored with a formal Walk Out Ceremony attended by fellow officers, first responders, township officials and community members, featuring a bagpipe performance and a long line of well-wishers. Earlier that month, she was recognized by the Township Committee with a proclamation and received a lifesaving award at the department’s annual ceremony. Corsentino concluded her service by signing off over the radio for the final time, surrounded by applause, gratitude, and a crowd that reflected the deep impact of her career.
5. Sgt. AlTerek Patterson (Bedminster Police Department)
Sgt. AlTerek Patterson served the Bedminster Township Police Department with distinction from 2006 until his passing in 2020 following a battle with COVID-19. A graduate of Somerset County Police Academy Class 35-05, he began his career as a patrolman and was promoted to sergeant in 2014. Known for his warm smile and steady presence, Patterson made a lasting impact on the community by supporting residents during some of their most difficult moments. He was later honored at the 28th Annual Blue Mass in November 2021, a statewide ceremony held at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart to pay tribute to fallen officers across New Jersey.
Know a first responder — past or present — who’s making a difference in Bernardsville-Bedminster? We’d love to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.
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