Congratulations to five Charlestown first responders who were cited for their service

Five First Responders Who Left A Lasting Legacy In Charlestown 

Patch Community Leaders, Patch Staff

Charlestown is fortunate to have dedicated first responders — police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, and search and rescue teams —who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. Their commitment carries forward the legacy of those who paved the way, demonstrating courage and dedication every day.

In partnership with T-Mobile, Patch is honoring the first responders who came before them—individuals whose impact continues to shape Charlestown. Today, we’re highlighting five remarkable figures who left a lasting mark on our community.

1. Sergeant Phillip Gingerella (Charlestown Police Department)

When a swimmer was swept 400 feet out by a rip current at Blue Shutters Town Beach, Sergeant Phillip Gingerella didn’t wait for backup — he dove in. With no lifeguards on duty and rescue boats still en route, Gingerella fought through powerful surf to reach the man and bring him back to safety. Though he was honored as the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund’s Officer of the Month for April 2015, Gingerella downplayed the spotlight, crediting the rescue to the teamwork and support of fellow first responders. The experience was so intense, he admitted he hasn’t entered the ocean since — a quiet testament to just how dangerous the situation was that day.

2. Officer Michael Carrasquillo (Charlestown Police Department)

Patrolman Michael Carrasquillo has become a driving force in traffic safety since joining the Charlestown Police Department in 2017. Honored as one of AAA Rhode Island’s 2018 Traffic Hero award recipients, Carrasquillo is known for his proactive yet educational approach to enforcement, choosing to issue warnings and driver education in 70% of his 1,500 traffic stops within a year. His dedication is deeply personal; after losing a close friend and fellow officer to a drunk driving crash in 2016, Carrasquillo made it his mission to reduce preventable roadway deaths. Whether slowing drivers down or removing impaired operators, he’s working daily to make the roads safer for everyone.

3. Firefighter Robert Thomas “Bob” Gardner Jr. (Richmond-Carolina Fire District)

A lifelong truck driver and dedicated volunteer firefighter, Bob Gardner served with the Charlestown Fire Department from 2004 to 2010, rising to the rank of captain before joining the Richmond-Carolina Fire District in 2008. He continued serving there until his passing in the line of duty in 2023. Gardner’s contributions shaped daily life at the station — he trained fellow firefighters to operate vehicles with precision and care and strengthened the department’s sense of community through shared meals and quiet moments of connection. His sudden loss left a lasting void in the community and in the lives of those who knew him as a steady leader, teacher and friend.

4. Officer John Bush (University of Rhode Island Police Department)

Officer John Bush of Charlestown was recognized for his swift and compassionate response during a crisis that could have ended in tragedy. Alongside Officer Nicholas Detroia, Bush helped save the life of a suicidal student at the University of Rhode Island, acting quickly to provide first aid and ensure she was safely transported to the hospital. His decisive actions during the critical moments reflected the highest standards of training and care, earning him a Life Saving Award from the URI Police Department. The incident highlighted the intense real-world emergencies campus officers are prepared to handle — situations where timing, training and empathy can mean the difference between life and death.

5. Officer Shannon Kane (Charlestown Police Department)

Officer Shannon Kane made history as the first full-time female officer hired in Charlestown in nearly 20 years, earning the role after finishing as the department’s top candidate in a competitive selection process. With a background in lifeguarding, emergency dispatch and service with the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, Kane brought both skill and a genuine desire to serve. She quickly earned a reputation for being approachable and driven, with a clear interest in connecting with the people she served. Her presence has added a new dynamic to the department, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, community-focused policing.