First responders and support personnel pose for a group photo with Genesee County legislators after being recognized on Wednesday afternoon by the legislature for their “exceptional bravery, professionalism and dedication” while responding to the tragic tour bus crash of Aug. 22 on the NYS Thruway in Pembroke. Photo by Mike Pettinella/For Video News Service.
BY MIKE PETTINELLA
For Video News Service
A demonstration in teamwork.
That’s how Tim Yaeger, Genesee County Emergency Management Coordinator, summed up the efforts of the county’s first responders and support personnel who provided services during the tragic tour bus crash of Aug. 22 on the NYS Thruway in Pembroke.
Speaking at a commendation ceremony at Wednesday afternoon’s Genesee County Legislature meeting, Yaeger thanked lawmakers for the recognition on behalf of the 30 or so first responders — including firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, emergency medical teams, dispatchers, coroners and support personnel – who, according to the legislative proclamation, “demonstrated exceptional bravery, professionalism and dedication under extreme and uncertain circumstances.”
“We talk about teamwork, we talk about collaboration … that day it was demonstrated,” Yaeger said. “Everybody there who responded, hyper focused, did their job they were trained to do. There were no issues.”
Legislature Chair Rochelle Stein read the proclamation to the audience as well as a certificate of appreciation from Sen. George Borrello and a citation from Assemblyman Steve Hawley.
The Genesee County Legislature proclamation:
WHEREAS, an unprecedented and tragic accident occurred on August 22, 2025, involving a tour bus on the New York State Thruway in Genesee County near Pembroke which prompted the largest single mobilization of First Responders in recent memory, and
WHEREAS, these first responders, including firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, emergency medical teams, dispatchers, coroners and support personnel, demonstrated exceptional bravery, professionalism and dedication under extreme and uncertain circumstances, and
WHEREAS, through swift action, coordinated response, and unwavering resolve, these individuals provided critical medical care, redirected traffic safely, managed communications, and brought order during a time of chaos and urgent need, and
WHEREAS, their dedication reflects the highest ideals of public service and exemplifies the spirit of patriotism, sacrifice, and duty that strengthens and sustains our communities, and
WHEREAS, the actions of these heroes deserve not only public recognition but also the full support and appreciation of the Genesee County Legislature and the people whom they represent. Now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Legislature honors and commends the First Responders whose courageous efforts during this historic mobilization embody the finest traditions of service and sacrifice. Be it further,
RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Legislature hereby expresses their profound respect, enduring gratitude, and continued commitment to supporting the vital work of our emergency response professionals.
Among those recognized for their response and support on that day:
— Chief Dan Mault on behalf of the Pembroke Fire District.
— Representatives of the East Pembroke Fire District.
— Representatives of the Corfu Fire District.
— Darien EMS President Caity West.
— Representatives of the Town of Batavia Fire Department.
— Chief Craig Johnson of the Le Roy Fire District.
— Representatives of the Le Roy Ambulance Service.
— Representatives of the Bethany Fire Department.
— Mercy Flight EMS Paramedic Crew Chief Tyler Shaver, Crew Chief Kyle Enzinna, BLS Crew Chief Wesley Rehwaldt, Dispatcher Christopher Maher, Flight Paramedic Daniel Hankey, and representatives.
— Tim Yaeger of the Genesee County Office of Emergency Management.
— Genesee County OEM Deputy Director Gary Patnode.
— Sheriff Joseph Graff, Deputy Sgt. Richard Schildwaster, Deputy Sgt. Kyle Krzemien, Deputy Sheriff Kevin McCarthy, Deputy Sheriff Austin Heberlein.
— Director of Emergency Communications Frank Riccobono, Dispatchers Beth Hynes, Jason Holman, Stephen Smelski, Senior Dispatcher Robert Tripp.
— Paul Pettit, Genesee County Public Health director.
— Coroners Don Newton, Drew Klotzbach, Karen Lang, Sandra Owen.
— Lynda Battaglia, Mental Health Services director.
— Carla Mindler, Social Services commissioner.