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Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad

22855 Lawrence Avenue

The Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad that serves the community compromise of the 3rd election district in St Mary´s County did not evolve overnight. This organization is managed and operated by Volunteers who are highly motivated and dedicated to their community. They are the fruit of the labor and foresight of community-minded individuals who saw a need and filled the niche. The Deloziers, Longmore´s, Matthingly´s and Wood´s are just a few of the names. Written documents are somewhat vague on details and minds are a bit unclear in regards to the formation years.

Most County Rescue Squads, as operated today, are reflective of observations and lessons learned from the Vietnam War. The concept of triage, treat the injury, stabilize the victim and transport to a medical facility capable of managing the trauma within one hour has proven to have merit in trauma situations. The mortician attendant pressing a hearse into service as an ambulance and resorting to the swoop and scoop technique is long behind us. Quality patient care, supported by knowledge, training, and professional medical advice is a prime example of how rescue service has kept in step with the changing times. From a humble beginning, the LVRS moved swiftly and smoothly into the 21st century.

Until the last quarter of 1975, the 3rd and 6th District Rescue Squad served the Leonardtown and Hollywood area. At that time it was felt both areas would be better served if the Rescue Squad were to split into two separate entities. Thus, a new squad was formed in the Leonardtown Area by some members of the old 3rd and 6th. Most of the members lived in Leonardtown area with three exceptions residing in the Hollywood area, which elected to join the Leonardtown group.

The existing vehicles, equipment, supplies etc were divided between the two groups. Monies from savings accounts were divided later the same year. The properties rights to a tract of land on Route 245 were transferred to the Leonardtown group. This piece of property, one ambulance and 105.00 dollars in a bank account were the total assets of the pledging squad.


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