(above) Carolyn Sorge
Meet one of the members of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad
Carolyn Sorge basically grew up at the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad. Her father, Ercole Sorge, joined in 1973 after Carolyn suffered a febrile seizure in his arms. He served as president for 15 years and rode on the squad until his passing in 1988.
Carolyn officially joined the squad in July of 1988 at the age of 15. “I grew up seeing first hand my father’s passion for this rescue squad and this community. It makes me proud to follow in his footsteps and continue his legacy,” she says. Her brother, Ed, also rode on the squad for a number of years and is now a full-time paramedic. Another brother, Christian, was also a member of the Cadet Corps.
During her 31 years on the rescue squad, she has served as a first and second lieutenant, a deputy chief and today is the chief. Along with the myriad of responsibilities that go along with this position, she is also a mother to 2 ½ year old Isabella and works full-time as a registered nurse.
Carolyn considers herself a true “townie.” While attending nursing school, she worked as a secretary to the Mayor and Municipal Manager, and in the early 2000s, she was elected to the Scotch Plains Township Council where she served four years; the last year as Deputy Mayor.
She also joined the Scotch Plains Fire Department in 1997 and had the distinction of being the first female firefighter in the history of the department. She served eight years there.
“Being a member of the squad gives me a feeling of personal satisfaction that I’m helping my community,” she said. She also loves being there for people at their most vulnerable times and, in addition, is thankful for the lifelong friendships she has developed throughout her years serving. She considers the members of the rescue squad her second family.
Please reach out if you would like to join your neighbors and become a part of our organization. Go to our website at scotchplainsrescuesquad.com, email us at scotchplainsrescuesquad@gmail.com, or call 908-322-2103.
Contributing Author Susan Baldani, a life member of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.
