Parsippany 'Heroes' Honored By Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

PARSIPPANY, NJ — Several Parsippany residents were recently honored as 'heroes' for their impactful contributions to the community.

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, who represents New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, has unveiled a list of 25 'NJ-11 Heroes,' including several Parsippany residents, all of whom are members of the Lake Parsippany Fire Department squad.

As part of the program, residents in the district, which spans towns in Morris, Essex, and Passaic counties, were encouraged to nominate everyday heroes as a gesture of gratitude.

This year's overwhelming number of submissions, Sherrill said, highlights the strong sense of goodwill within our local communities.

“Each year, my office and I receive so many incredible submissions for our annual heroes program. This year was no different. I am moved by all of the New Jerseyans who are making a difference in the lives of others," Sherrill said. "There were inspiring submissions from throughout the district and this year’s group of heroes includes teachers, community leaders, volunteers, veterans, students, and more. All of our heroes are neighbors who we are grateful for this holiday season."

In Parsippany, community member Lorrie nominated the entire Lake Parsippany Fire Department as a 2024 hero.

"They are 100% volunteers as long as our town has been here, and they are committed and dedicated to keeping it that way no matter if they are short-staffed, under-funded, tired or sick," Lorrie said.

The Lake Parsippany Fire Department was established in September 1935 to provide additional fire protection as the area around Parsippany grew and expanded. Over the years, the department has grown and, just one year after its formation, introduced the Ladies Auxiliary of the Lake Parsippany Volunteer Fire Company.

The department's original firehouse, built in 1936, now serves as a substation for the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Unit.

The Lake Parsippany Fire Department currently consists of 19 volunteer members.

"They keep the 'community' in our close community and keep our taxes down by sacrificing all this, to boot. They actively recruit although with mostly disappointing results which puts them even more in demand," Lorrie added. "These under-appreciated people are a priceless asset to our community. They are truly a treasure."

All 2024 heroes live or work in NJ-11, and they will all get a congressional certificate acknowledging their community service.

"This holiday season, I encourage all to reflect on those in your life who have been a hero to you, in ways big and small," Sherrill said.