Liberty Award Is Presented To Southampton Hospital Staff

Southampton Hospital employees were given one of the highest civilian honors that New Yorker’s can receive on Friday with a ceremony hosted by State Senator Ken LaValle.

The Director of Facilities Management and Engineering at Southampton Hospital, David Lopez, along with 13 staff members were awarded a New York State Senate Liberty Award, an award that is presented  to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.

Southampton Hospital was recognized for work and response to Hurricane Sandy to maintain electrical power at the hospital. Saving the lives of those dependent on electric machines. Bill Rand, Rich Donohue, Tom Colitti, Tom Lawlor, Gary Scherpich, Dana Davis, Mike Catalano, Tom Geotz, Mike White, Augi Heithaus, Tammy Palazzolo and Jim White were all recognized during the ceremony.

The group worked round the clock without sleep for two days ensuring the hospital had power by constantly setting up generators during the storm, supplying power to critical parts to the hospital.

Hospital President and CEO Robert Chaloner stated in a press release sent out by Kenneth LaValle’s office, “At Southampton Hospital, we have always known that Dave Lopez and the members of his department have extraordinary dedication and the special skills required to keep the Hospital up and running.  No matter what the situation, we can depend on them to come to the rescue with a solution and, just as importantly, a reassuring smile.  We could not ask for anything better.”