The Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce is set to honor the outstanding police officers, paramedics, EMTs and firefighters of the community at the 2026 Joshua M. Freeman First Responder Awards on Friday, February 20 at Coastal Kitchen at Bear Trap Dunes. Each participating company and department located within The Quiet Resorts elects one individual to receive an award for their exceptional service. Nominating chiefs and captains also have the choice to have their awardee considered for the Overall Valor Award. This year, one of two nominees will be awarded the Overall Valor Award, which was renamed in 2007 in memory of the late developer and philanthropist, Joshua M. Freeman.

Presented by the Carl M. Freeman Companies, the ceremony will recognize the service and dedication of thirteen nominees. Representatives of local towns, public safety organizations, government officials, and the Chamber membership will gather to honor these first responders for their acts of service, courage, and commitment.

As chosen by their leadership, the 2026 First Responder Awardees by category are:

(Officers of the Year) PFC Grady Meredith – Bethany Beach PD; CPL. Catherine Craft – Dagsboro PD; CPL. Emily Truitt – Fenwick Island PD; CPL 1 Washington Alava – Ocean View PD; Senior CPL. Eric Foskey – Selbyville PD; and Patrolman Chase Morris – South Bethany PD.

(Firefighters of the Year) Firefighter William Graham* – Bethany Beach VFC; Assistant Chief Brad Wharton – Frankford VFC; and Firefighter Marc Bognar – Millville VFC.

(EMTs of the Year) EMT William Graham* – Bethany Beach VFC; Special Operations Manager Glenn Marshall – Sussex County EMS; EMT Shelby Marvel – Frankford VFC; EMT Megan Hudson – Millville VFC; and EMT Maggie Zweibel – Selbyville VFC.

“The Chamber membership is grateful for the opportunity to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of the local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services,” said Lauren Weaver, Executive Director of the Chamber. “What a privilege to be able to share the stories of service and valor and celebrate that with their families, leadership, and peers.”

An additional Good Samaritan Award will be given to a citizen who stepped in during a time of great need. The Good Samaritan Award is selected each year by a local first responder company.

Congratulations to all! This event is presented by Carl M. Freeman Companies. Supporting sponsors include Banks Wines & Spirits, Coastal Point, Delmarva Power, and Mountaire Farms. Signature sponsors include L&W Insurance, State Farm Agent – Billy Reese, Taylor Bank, and Wilgus Associates. Town and Service sponsors include Beebe Healthcare, Law Offices of Scott & Shuman, and PNC Bank. The Good Samaritan Award is sponsored by Bethany Beach Books.