Vermont Firefighter and Boy Scout Receives Well Earned Recognition

Nicholas Korda, 20, of Orwell, Vermont received a monitary scholarship from
the Addison County Firefighters Association, and has also been honored for
his exemplary volunteer servicewith the Presidents Volunteer Service Award.

The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was presented by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Program on behalf of the Presidents Council of Service and Civic Participation. Nick Korda participated in the Spirit of Community program this year - as a representative of the Boy Scout Troop #109 of Orwell, Vermont - where he is a member.

Nickrecently completed his Freshman year at Castleton State College and remains involved in many of the
campus-wide clubs and sports, along with being an active member of both Vergennes Area Rescue Squad,
Castleton First Response Squad, Castleton Fire Department - and, until recently - the Orwell Fire Department!

Nick has dedicated much of the last 7 years to making our community a better place to live.

In recognition, Nick has received a personally signed letter and certificate from
President George W. Bush congratulating him on his efforts.

Nick earned this award for his efforts toward achieving Eagle Scout rank. It was due to
Nick's involvement with the Fire and Rescue services that first gave him the idea for
his Eagle Scout Project - which was to make house numbers on rural routes more visible.
Aside from researching the codes that had to be followed, Nick got others
involved in helping to distribute and post over 500 reflective green and white
E911 address signs throughout the community of Orwell.

Nick stated, It was really a great experience! I was able to meet a lot of people,

and have actually seen our efforts make a difference.

More than 170,000 young people across America have been considered for these awards since the program began in 1995. All of these extraordinary young people exemplify the spirit of community that is so important to the future of our cities, towns and neighborhoods, said Art Ryan, chairman & CEO of Prudential Financial. By honoring them, we hope to not only give them the recognition they so richly deserve, but also to inspire others to follow their example.

UPDATE: February 10, 2006

Montpelier, Vermont - Nick was officially recognized by the State of Vermont's House of Representatives
at the 2005 Eagle Scout Recognition Day. Here, he is receiving his copy of the proclamation
from Vermont Govenor Jim Douglas.

It goes without saying, but... all of us here at FIRE-RESCUE PRODUCTS
are very proud of Nick's accomplishments!