Rescue Squad 26th Annual Tree of Lights Fundraiser

On Saturday, December 3rd, 2016, members of the Watchung Rescue Squad lit the tree in the village green during the annual Tree of Lights Festival.
The tree was dedicated to three longtime members of the Watchung Rescue Squad who passed away in 2016: Steve Gussis, was honored by Squad Captain Alison Diecke; Walter Niegisch, was honored by his daughter Karen Niegisch Grayboyes; and Claire Ohl, was honored by Squad Treasurer Robert Winston.In addition to the honorees, the crowd was treated to holiday music from Babygrand Entertainment as well as a live performance from the Valley View Middle School Chorus class under the direction of Music Teacher Gen Webber.
The ceremony concluded with thankful remarks from Mayor Steven Pote, who took the time to appreciate all the volunteers in Watchung and the service to the community. Mayor Pote then led the countdown to the 26th lighting of the tree. Once lit, the crowd was treated to a wonderful fireworks display courtesy of Garden State Fireworks.
Many Watchung families took part in the celebration by placing a light on the tree in remembrance or in honor of family, friends, and others. The names of honorees will be posted on the illuminated display on the Village Green through January.
Lights are still available to anyone who wishes to participate: To place a light on the tree, please complete the Dedication Order Form available at Watchung Borough Hall and mail it along with your tax-deductible donation of $50.00 per light to Watchung Rescue Squad, 10 Stirling Road, Watchung, NJ 07069.
To learn more about the squad or membership information, please visit our website www.watchungems.org, email president@watchungems.org or call 908-755-1297.
TREE DEDICATION
The members of the Watchung Rescue Squad dedicate this year’s Tree of Lights in recognition of three Watchung residents, Walter Niegisch, Claire Ohl, and Stephen Gussis, who dedicated their lives to serving their country, their community, and the Watchung Rescue Squad.
Walter Niegisch
 Walter Niegisch (1929- 2016) was born in Atlantic City, and grew up in Brooklyn, eventually attending Columbia University for his undergraduate and Stevens Institute of Technology for his graduate degree. Walt served in the US Army from 1954-1956, where his scientific knowledge was instrumental in the development of food preservation. After discharge, he worked for Union Carbide for more than 42 years as a research scientist. Walt was an active leader in the Boy Scouts and his Church.
Walt joined the Squad in 1977 and was a Distinguished Life Member, as well as one of the first volunteer responders in New Jersey to earn his EMT certification. He received a Community Service Award and the prestigious Governor’s Award. He was a pioneer in the development of the Squad’s extrication team, and served in many officer positions.
Claire Ohl
Claire Ohl (1929- 2016) was born in Newark, attended Montclair State Teachers College in 1941, then worked as a Technical Assistant Bell Laboratories before serving her country as a US Navy Wave in World War II from 1943-1945. Claire returned to Bell Labs, then left the workforce to raise her two sons, finally becoming a Mathematics Teacher at Governor Livingston until her retirement.
Claire joined the Squad in 1983, served as Treasurer for 22 years, and received every honor the Squad awards, including Distinguished Life Member and Lifetime Achievement.
Stephen Gussis
Stephen Gussis (1923-2016) was born in New Brunswick, and graduated from New Brunswick High School in 1942. In 1943, during World War II, he enrolled in the U.S. Air Corps, serving as a Staff Sergeant with the 20th Air Force in Guam, working on B29 Bomber engines until the war’s end. After returning to New Brunswick, Steve obtained his barbering license and ran the Rutgers’s Campus Barber shop for many years. He was an active member of his community, attending the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, and serving as Secretary for the local chapter of AHEPA.
Steve joined the Squad in 1988, actively riding the ambulance for many years and earning the Squad’s Outstanding Service Award. Steve was instrumental in many of the unseen details that keep the Squad running, annually working diligently in the Finance and Audit committees. Steve impressed the membership with his commitment and service; it is with great honor that this year’s Tree of Lights shall be dedicated to his memory.