First Responder
Every month at our luncheon, we show our appreciation those who serve our community by honoring a first responder for their brave, dedicated service.
Thank you ALL for your brave dedicated service in protecting our community!
October
Senior Officer James Jacksa
Mount Pleasant Police Department
Senior police officer James Jacksa of the Mount Pleasant Police Department was recognized at today's monthly luncheon for his heroic rescue of a non-verbal autistic child from a neighborhood retention pond. His previous lifeguard experience, calm demeanor, and creative problem-solving were crucial in bringing the child to safety and reuniting them with their parents. A special thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their continued support and to Nothing Bundt Cakes for providing the celebratory cake.
September
Captain Mike Carestio
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
Captain Mike Carestio of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department was honored at today’s monthly luncheon for his innovative work on redesigning the fire trucks. His redesign is aimed at improving the department’s efficiency and reducing response times. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
August
Detective St. Clare Clinkscales
Mount Pleasant Police Department
At this monthly luncheon our First Responder Recognition went to Mount Pleasant Police Department’s Detective Clinkscales. A child reported a suspicious incident involving a man in a white truck. Detective Clinkscales conducted a thorough investigation, including checking over 1,300 vehicles, and determined the incident was not criminal but still highlighted the importance of vigilance in the community. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
July
Deputy Fire Chief Richard Scott Hathaway
Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue Department
At this monthly luncheon we were honored to recognize Deputy Chief Richard Scott Hathaway’s upcoming retirement from Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue after 36 years in service. A big thank you to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
June
Deputy Fire Chief Michael Bowers
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
At this monthly luncheon we were honored to recognize Deputy Fire Chief Michael Bowers from the Awendaw/McClellanville District during his last week of duty before retirement. Thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support. We also extend a special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
May
Officer Cody Burns
City of Charleston Police Department
Sergeant Dan Eckert
Mount Pleasant Police Department
During Police Memorial Week, we were honored to recognize Officer Cody Burns of the City of Charleston Police Department and Sergeant Dan Eckert of the Mount Pleasant Police Department for their outstanding collaboration. During a recent traffic stop, Officer Burns apprehended a suspect in possession of a stolen check from the Mount Pleasant Chamber. Both Burns and Eckert's vigilance and teamwork exemplify the dedication our first responders have to keeping our communities safe. Both Charleston Police Deputy Chief Thompson and Mount Pleasant Police Chief Arnold commended the officers for their collaboration, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation. A lesson from today is we all need to be cognizant of the recent uptick in mail theft locally. Thanks to Pinnacle Financial Partners for their ongoing support. We also extend a special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the celebratory cake.
April
Captain Eddie Genthert
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
This month's First Responder Recognition was awarded to Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Captain Eddie Genthert. Chief Mixon recognized Genthert for being a change agent in the department. He's added efficiency in responding to structure fires and making a huge impact on recruiting, building culture and setting up the department for a stronger future. His family was present for this honor. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
March
FTO George Tetanich
Mount Pleasant Police Department
The March First Responder Recognition was awarded to Mount Pleasant Police Department's FTO George Tetanich. Chief Arnold recognized Officer Tetanich for saving the life of a citizen who had overdosed and was found unresponsive after a vehicle collision. He administered NARCAN and the person later recovered at the hospital. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
February
Firefighter Samantha Mikesell
Mount Pleasant Fire Department
This month's First Responder Recognition was bestowed upon Mount Pleasant Fire Department's Firefighter Samantha Mikesell. Chief Mixon spoke of Firefighter Mikesell’s compassion and ability to lead in difficult situations. Nearly the entire fire department turned out in recognition. The award is sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners and special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the cake.
January
PFC Barry Sturmer
Mount Pleasant Police Department
This month’s First Responder recognition went to MPPD's Pfc. Barry Sturmer for his compassion and thoughtfulness for a little girl that lost her bike. He couldn't locate the stolen bike so he bought her a new one. Pinnacle Financial Partners sponsored the award—special thanks to Nothing Bundt Cakes and All American Awards.