HISTORY
The Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps was founded in 1966 when a group of local residents joined together after the tragic loss of a child. Initially, the use of a hearse from a local funeral parlor was required whenever there was an emergency. In 1966, Commack Ambulance purchased their first ambulance, an old style Cadillac, and responded to 140 calls within the first three months. This ambulance was originally housed at Christ the King Church, and was later moved to a potato barn (which is now currently Vehicle Tracking Solutions) on Veterans Motor Parkway.
In 1967, Commack Ambulance purchased their second ambulance, a 1967 Cadillac. In June 1973, the organization adopted a 24-hour residence response. Members would be alerted of emergencies by phone, and would keep in touch via CB radios. In 1974, the Ambulance Corp broke ground on their current location, 200 Burr Road.
In 1970, the Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps Youth Squad was formed, and consisted of approximately 40 teenagers ranging from 16 to 18 years old. The Youth Squad is still very active today within the department.
Today, Commack Ambulance operates 5 Advanced Life Support Ambulances and 6 Advanced Life Support First Responder Trucks on a 24/7 basis. With an average of 3,500 alarms per year, Commack Ambulance’s in-house crews provide superior response time to ambulance calls with highly trained and motivated emergency medical personnel. Commack Ambulance is considered one of the finest EMS organizations in Suffolk county and that is because of our members.
Numerous Commack Ambulance members have joined the medical community as Doctors, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses and Paramedics. Other members have used the ambulance corps as a stepping stone to other professional careers.
Beyond medical emergencies, Commack Ambulance reaches out to the community with various programs to prepare and educate the public on First Aid, CPR and a variety of emergency-related seminars. Commack Ambulance also hosts many events within the community, such as our annual 5K Run/Walk, and the Operation Frosty Parade and Toy Drive.
Commack Ambulance has served the community for over the last 50 years. We are pleased that you cared enough to read about us. In order to continue the tradition within Commack Ambulance of “neighbors helping neighbors”, perhaps you will join us as a volunteer.
