EMCOR Group, Inc. announced today that it presented William (Bill) Koch Jr., senior estimator at EMCOR subsidiary Forest Electric NJ, with the 2012 EMCOR Diamond Award. Established in 1998 as a special honor to highlight exemplary employee accomplishments that go beyond the call of duty, the Diamond Award was bestowed on Koch for overcoming personal tragedy and working with Hope for the Warriors, a national, nonprofit organization that strives to enhance the quality of life for post-9/11 service members, their families, and families of the fallen who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty. Diamond award winners are selected based on performance that is special, admirable, and enriches the lives of many.
In 2008, Koch’s son, CPL Steven R. Koch, 23, was killed in action during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Then, in 2010, his daughter, Lynne, 29, also became a victim of war when she took her own life. To honor the lives of his children, as well as help other military families suffering loss due to Post Traumatic Stress, Koch works passionately with Hope for the Warriors, including supporting the Run for the Warriors event at Rutgers University each year.
Furthermore, Bill has written two books of poems: Casualties of War and Patriotic Passion. In them, Bill speaks of his pain, as well as love for his family and country, his son’s fellow soldiers, and treasured memories of his children. Through his writings, he hopes to raise awareness and bring understanding and compassion to families also living with the same loss and unanswered questions.
Tony Guzzi, president and CEO, EMCOR Group, Inc., drew from his personal experience and military service in presenting the award. “Steven died doing what he loved; he raised his hand and said, ‘Send me, send me. I’m going to protect those who are vulnerable and protect you,’ and that’s amazing,” said Guzzi. “Bill’s story is one of love, strength, and commitment to helping others. Bill honors his family and reaches out to other families through his work. He garners respect of management and co-workers for his diligence, loyalty, experience, and work ethic. We’re proud that Bill is part of the EMCOR family, and are honored to present him with EMCOR’s Diamond Award.”
