Paul Blott, recipient of the 2021 FASNY Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship. Blott is a member of the East Norwich Volunteer Fire Co., and plans to attend Nassau Community College in the fall. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has awarded the 2021 FASNY Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship to Paul Bott of East Norwich, NY. Bott received a certificate and scholarship of $1,500 for his volunteer service in the community from Michael Krummenacker, member of the FASNY Board of Directors.

"This scholarship means a lot to me, said Bott.” “It truly helps with personal financial security as I head off to my first semester of college.”

Bott plans to attend Nassau Community College in the fall where he intends to study business and entrepreneurship. Outside of the firehouse he is passionate about cars and auto maintenance.

Bott is one of 26 students chosen for this scholarship. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of an applicant’s volunteer service to his or her community, such as serving with a local fire department, scouting, church, school, work with senior citizens, fire prevention, and other projects. Additional criteria include consistent demonstration of good character and completion of a written essay.

Bott would describe his relationship with other firefighters as priceless. “I don't know what I would be doing with my life if I had not joined and met the fire department’s wonderful people,” Paul said.

When asked what he would say to someone interested in joining the service he said, “I would tell them all the enjoyable responsibilities that volunteer firefighters learn and do, like saving people in need. The service has changed my life and gave me the knowledge needed to not be a bystander in certain situations,” Bott said.

The Gerard J. Buckenmeyer FASNY Volunteer Scholarship program is made possible each June through the generous donations of individuals, fire departments and auxiliaries. This year, Provident Agency Inc., the provider of the accidental death and dismemberment insurance for FASNY members, has again provided major underwriting support to help FASNY award scholarships to young volunteers. FASNY would also like to recognize the in-kind support donated by McNeil and Co., which provides more than 80 hours of administrative work needed to process the applications and awards.

Founded in 1872, the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) represents the interests of the approximately 85,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel in New York State. For more information, visit www.fasny.com.

- from the Firemen's Association of the State of New York