Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad Names New Chief

Princeton NJ

13 September, 2021

11:16 AM

Description

PRINCETON. NJ — Chief Frank Setnicky of the Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad (PFARS) will be retiring after 35 years of service. He will be succeeded by Captain Shawn Gallagher, PFARS announced. Setnicky has been chief of PFAR since 2007. He joined the Squad in 1986 as a paid EMT. During his time at PFARS Setnicky received many accolades and honors. Under his leadership, PFARS was named Outstanding Public EMS Agency by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services in 2008, and in 2016 the same office named him EMT of the year. "Frank Setnicky has reflected the highest standards of Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad his entire career here. He has provided leadership and mentorship to many," said Mayor Mark Freda, President of the Princeton First Aid & Rescue Squad. "Frank has helped grow and maintain a culture that has kept PFARS a successful organization." Setnicky also implemented new treatments when available. One notable change was the field use of EPI pens for anaphylactic reactions. Just days after the EPI pens were placed in service, PFARS saved the life of a child by using them, the department said. "Frank will be missed; but the organization has the depth to fill his shoes and continue PFARS being an organization providing excellent emergency medical and rescue services to the Princeton community," Freda said. Incoming chief Gallagher has been a career staff member of the Squad since 2008 and a Line Officer since 2014. "He brings a vast knowledge of industry trends, a passion for and strong grasp of EMS and Rescue operations, and considerable leadership experience to his new position," PFARS said in a statement on Facebook. "Capt. Gallagher is known by Squad members as someone who sets an example for others to follow: a supportive and respectful leader, an advocate for progress, a diligent EMT who continually seeks to learn and improve, and a thoughtful and patient teacher." Gallagher is expected to take up his new role on Oct. 21. Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email [email protected] Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.