John Napolitano embraced the Warren CERT culture and had served more hours in 2023 than any other member.
By: Gena Johnson | Warren Weekly | Published January 16, 2024
Warren Community Emergency Response Team member John Napolitano died Jan. 13 after succumbing to health issues.
“This is truly a loss to our team and community,” said Warren CERT Director Michael Riley. “John had become part of our CERT family, and his legacy will live on through our memories.”
Napolitano joined the CERT team in September 2020. According to a team statement, he understood the mission, embraced the culture, gave his all, and became an integral part of the organization’s success.
His dedication led to him serving more hours than any other member in 2023. As a result, he earned three awards: for serving 75-plus hours, outstanding participation for most hours served during planned events, and outstanding participation for top hours.
To honor his memory and continue his legacy, the Warren CERT team will start the “Napolitano Award,” which will be awarded to the member with the highest number of volunteer hours per year.
Condolences can be sent to the Warren CERT Facebook page or to mriley@warrencert.org.
CERT trains volunteers in basic disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live. Training programs include fire safety and light search and rescue.
Information about services and final arrangements for Napolitano will be posted on the Warren CERT Facebook page at facebook.com/wrncert.