BENNINGTON — Dozens of law enforcement vehicles paraded up Hospital Drive early Thursday morning to salute the staff of the Southwesern Vermont Medical Center as they fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bennington Police Department, Bennington Sheriff's Department, Rensselaer County Sheriff's Department and Vermont State Police were all represented. Officers paraded up Hospital Drive, with lights on only, stopped in front of the entrance for approximately a minute, and got out of their vehicles as a salute to staff.
SVMC staff members had been notified of the event Wednesday night, and many were outside to receive the honor.
Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette made an impromptu address. "On behalf of Bennington law enforcement and law enforcement in New York, we appreciate everything that the staff at the medical center does, not just during COVID-19, but throughout the year," he said.
Tom Dee, Southwestern Vermont Health Care's president and CEO, expressed thanks for the longstanding cooperation between the hospital and the region's law enforcement agencies.
"I can think of no better partner during this time and every day," said Dee. "You are here for us every day, 24 hours a day. You do a tremendous job. On behalf of SVHC, thank you."