Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award

Lieutenant Michael A. Moon is the recipient of the 2023 Kenneth E. McNary Award...

The Kenneth E McNary award was created by our departed brother Steve Wright in February of 1990 to celebrate Ken’s 60^th year of active service to the Elsmere Fire Company. When Ken passed away on July 9th, 2006, he left this earth after serving his community and country, for an amazing 73 years of active service. In his honor this award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community.

Our recipient this year is more involved in our community than could be imagined, and each of these community activities have had an unbelievable impact on the Elsmere Fire Company. He always stresses to our members that every touch of the community, every child we talk with, and every senior citizen we meet is an opportunity to educate and make their life better. He believes that when one of our residents is having a bad day, we can help make their life better, and ultimately, we are making our own lives better by twofold. He NEVER lets the Company miss out on an opportunity to educate and to market Elsmere Fire in the community. On one occasion, our department was suddenly scheduled to attending a funeral, but he still found the time to assemble a crew and fulfill a previous commitment made to one of our neighboring businesses. He prides himself on fire prevention details and other neighborhood events. He makes certain that Neighbors are always welcome into the fire station, and firmly believes that the fire station is more of a community meeting place than a garage for vehicles.

This year’s recipient has continually grown and developed into an extremely valuable asset and resource for the Elsmere Fire Company and his entire community. He was born to be a firefighter. He became an active member of our Department on March 25^th, 2004. Quickly becoming involved in the Fire Company by being elected Lay Chaplain on December 9^th, 2004. He was then re-elected as Lay Chaplain in 2006. By May of 2007 he was a Kevin M. Shea Award Recipient, one of our youngest recipients to receive this honor, and by December 2006 he was elected 3^rd Lieutenant. Since that time, this year's recipient continued to rise through the ranks and has been 1^st Lieutenant since 2017.

As previously stated, this award is given to an individual who best exemplifies dedication, professionalism and concern for fellow firefighters as well as exhibiting a high commitment to the Fire Company and Community. Let us first speak on his dedication. Webster defines the word dedication as “the quality of being dedicated or committed to a task or purpose.” Our recipient personifies this definition! He is dedicated beyond belief. And it helps that he is extremely competitive and proud of his department. He consistently is one of our top responders not only in our district, but in the town of Bethlehem. One might think he is a paid firefighter, but in fact he is simply proud of his fire company and would rather die than ever let a call roll. Even if he is on an important work conference call, he will mute the phone and rush to assist his neighbor in need. On one particular fire call, after a tree fire was extinguished and the scene was secure, he had his driver turn off the engine for a few minutes so he could answer a work question. He never missed a beat! And if you were to ask him what that important work call was about, he would tell you that he does not remember, but he never forgets the details of each call he is on and finds every opportunity to use them as teaching moments at his drills. He dedicates countless hours to developing and implementing training for the department and new fire fighters. He loves mentoring to as many firefighters as he can along the way. Usually, the Chief will assign a big brother to one of our new members, but for some reason, this individual holds the record for being a big brother to more members than anyone else. He prides himself on being “first due” whenever possible and making sure that everyone is prepared for the job at hand. He leads by example and keeps the safety of his crew at the forefront.

In regards to professionalism and concern for fellow firefighters, this year's recipient keeps up to date with the latest advancements in firefighting technology, and makes sure the department is aware of the risk’s involved in our undertakings; including, for instance, by regularly warning us about using our “cancer wipes” after each tower fire. He meticulously plans his drills, teaches our members, and warns us all how to do the job in the safest manner possible. Like a few other members in our department, this year’s recipient is not shy, and loves to share his knowledge and skills with his fellow firefighters. He like redundancy and ensures his message is delivered at each drill, even if he must go until 10:00pm for some drills. Recently he was ending his drills by going into details about LODD’s and what we can do to avoid them while doing the job we all love so much to do. He understands well that the most important thing we can do after a call is to return to our families and loved ones, and he does everything possible to ensure that we do.

To say that our recipient is competitive is clearly an understatement. Unless he is first, he is not satisfied with himself. This skill was developed as a youngster playing sports. He learned that winning is not everything, it’s the only thing, and he has carried that philosophy into his professional and firefighting career. And although he may be last to arrive at a meeting, or an appointment, he likes to be the first to get an engine out, the first to put a fire out, the first to mention that he has 8 interiors in route in his apparatus, and definitely to be the first-place team for inspection each year. He even tries to help the other teams by pointing out what they missed and why they will not beat him.

Lastly, exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community. Our recipient was the chair of the 100^th Anniversary Committee, is on the 24 Ridge Road Committee, the Communications and Public Awareness Committee, the Members Room Committee, the Recruitment and Retention Committee, consistently assists with our fish fry’s and is going to be taking over the Explorer’s this year. Usually if there is something going on, our recipient is involved.

It is without question that this year's recipient of the Kenneth E McNary Achievement Award embodies the dedication, professionalism, concern for fellow firefighters and commitment to the company that this prestigious award honors. I know you will agree that he is more than deserving. It is my pronounced privilege and honor to present this award to this distinct member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring Lieutenant Mike Moon as this year’s recipient. 

Michael L Taylor is the 2022 recipient of the Kenneth E McNary Achievement Award.

Fire Police Officer Michael L. Taylor joined the Elsmere Fire Company on June 25, 1970...

He received the Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post #1040 Firefighter of the Year Award at a ceremony on March 7th, 2016. Michael served as Company Treasurer from April 1977 to April 1979. He was elected to a three year term as Director in April 1988 and again in February 1995. Michael served as Vice-President in 2013. He is a Life member and serves as the Company's delegate to the Albany County Volunteer Fireman's Association. He is the eldest of three generations of active members in the Elsmere Fire Company. His son Steven and grandson Andrew have also served.

This award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community...

This year’s recipient has been an active member of our Company since 2006, and has been a testament to the characteristics worthy of this award. After joining Elsmere 15 years ago, he has seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. After meeting with the membership committee in 2006, a call was placed to check his references. After an impressive 45-minute conversation outlining his abilities, strengths and dedication to service, we had high expectations and enthusiasm for this potential new member. After being voted in a month later, the Elsmere Fire Company quickly realized the gem we had gained. He continues to live up each word of that recommendation to this very day. His worldly skills and knowledge continue to make him a tremendous asset at fire calls and in formulating policy decisions.

About a year and a half ago all of our lives changed, virtually overnight. As the COVID-19 virus spread across our State and Country, many of us grew concerned and perhaps a little confused by the amount of information and opinions being thrown at us on a daily basis. Back then it seemed like things were changing by the day and our way of life was threatened. We all began wondering, how would we continue to serve our community as first responders and protect our families and friends. Fortunately, this was our recipient's wheel house, he was able to cut through much of the noise and provide our members with clear, concise and timely information to keep ourselves and loved ones safe. Due to his expertise and position with the New York State Department of Health, our recipient has been instrumental in helping safely guide the District and Company through this pandemic while still providing the same level of firefighting capabilities our community expects. He quickly became our go-to guy for anything COVID related. On several occasions he provided personal counsel to some of our members and their family members who ended up battling COVID-19. Most recently, he has been a strong vaccine advocate and trusted resource to our members. In large part due to his guidance, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel and look forward to returning the Company to some semblance of normalcy.

His high level of commitment to Elsmere does not end with his firematic skills. Our recipient shared the same level of dedication in his administrative abilities. Although this year's recipient’s contributions to the Company were magnified this year, he had already established himself as an integral member of the Fire Company after he was elected to active membership back in 2006. He is a Kevin M. Shea Firematic Participation Award recipient. He served two years on the Board of Directors after being elected in 2016. Then in 2018 he was entrusted by the community and elected to the Board of Fire Commissioners. During his tenure as a Director, he was instrumental in getting the Bunk-in Program off the ground, serving as its' first Committee Chair. He is also our resident Hazmat expert and was heavily involved in Elsmere's Hazardous Material Response Team over the years. Many of the policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines currently in place today include his guiding hand and wise input.

As I stated earlier, this award requires three characteristics; Dedication, professionalism and Concern. Our recipient has demonstrated these traits throughout his entire tenure with Elsmere in what he says and what he does.

It is my great pleasure to present this special award to this distinct member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring Alan Antenucci as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth McNary Award.

Firefighter Charles F. Peters was awarded the 31st Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award as a virtual ceremony at the Elsmere Fire Station on September 24, 2020. Click the "Read More" link to view the letter outlining his accomplishments...

This award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community. This year’s recipient become an active member of our Department on April 27^th, 2017. He was already well into his firefighting carrier when he joined bringing his knowledge and experience to Elsmere. A longtime volunteer to his community in every aspect, and his proven dedication to the Elsmere Fire Department has been a true example of the characteristics worthy of this award. Before joining Elsmere, he had a long and successful tenure at the Slingerlands Fire Department where he was Captain of the rescue team, and seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. His worldly skills and knowledge of building construction continue to make him a tremendous asset for training and fire calls. This passion is deeply rooted in his family as his brother is also a firefighter and shares the same family commitment to serving. His high level of commitment to Elsmere does not end with his firematic skills. Our recipient also possesses tremendous administrative skills. He was elected Company Director in January 2019 filling a two-year term, and has used this time to resolve and discuss many issues and concerns that typically arise in volunteer organizations, and his commitment and dedication to the Elsmere Fire Company has been unwavering in each instance. He then decided to take on more administrative responsibilities and served as Chairman of the Bunk-in program where he developed a comprehensive duty assignment with the Chief’s office and instituted the policies and procedures necessary to ensure the proper compliance and structure necessary to keep the program running as intended. He also took on the responsibility of overseeing the maintenance and renovations at the property where it continues to operate in excellent condition. His commitment to serve his department continued when he informed the President that he would be interested in serving on the Inspection/Instillation committee where he immediately put his administrative skills to work again in helping to make tonight’s program possible. This year’s ceremony involved many logistical changes from the past, and our recipient was definitely up to the task, making sure that award recipients, family members, and each of our Elsmere family members were able to participate among the challenging time we face today As I stated earlier, this award requires three characteristics; Dedication, professionalism and Concern. Our recipient has demonstrated these traits throughout his short tenure with Elsmere in what he says and what he does. It is my great pleasure to present this special award to this distinct member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring this true professional, Chuck Peters, as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth McNary Award. 

2019 Kenneth E. McNary Award:

This award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community. This year’s recipient began as a social member in January, 1975, and 11 days later, transferred to become an active member of our Department. He was halfway into his senior year at Bethlehem Central High School at the time, and since then, has been a true example of the characteristics worthy of this award. After joining Elsmere 44 years ago, he has seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. His worldly skills and knowledge continue to make him a tremendous asset particularly at a call when the crew may be young, but his knowledge is plentiful. He enjoys lending his experience to our younger members and even our officers when he notices something isn’t quite right, or a procedure isn’t being followed. He believes in following the rules, and he lives by one rule; “Follow the rules!”

In 1988, his work required him to leave the area but his heart and passion for Elsmere never did. After 15 years, he returned home and is dedication and passion for volunteering and his friends at Elsmere has kept the fire burning in him. This passion is deeply rooted in his family as his brother is also a member at Elsmere. His high level of commitment to Elsmere does not end with his firematic skills. Our recipient also possesses tremendous administrative skills. He was elected Company Director in 1984, and served as a Board member for 12 years. He then decided to take on more administrative responsibilities and served as Company President for 5 years, leading us as we continued to grow and face the ever changing and sometimes complex challenges associated with running a large volunteer association. Many of the policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines currently in place today include his guiding hand and wise input. Over his almost two decades in office, he has voted on many issues and concerns that typically arise in volunteer organizations, and his commitment and dedication to the Elsmere Fire Company has been unwavering in each instance. After leaving the office of President, he was again elected as Director for another three-year term, which ensured a smooth transition for the following administration. Upon leaving his civil position, he filled a much needed position as District Quartermaster, and for the next several years, worked tirelessly to ensure that all of our equipment and gear were up to date, in service and inventoried. Our records are impeccable, and whether it’s for an audit, our insurance carrier, New York State or even our ISO rating, he is able to produce the necessary and required documents to satisfy any request. Even with all of his administrative duties which he served with the highest and best ethics and morals, he never forgets his number one priority, and that is to serve the residents of the Elsmere Fire District with honor, dignity and the best fire prevention and suppression methods possible.

As I stated earlier, this award requires three characteristics: Dedication, professionalism and Concern. Our recipient has demonstrated these traits throughout his entire tenure with Elsmere in what he says and what he does. It is my great pleasure to present this special award to this distinct member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring this true professional, James Trotta, as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth McNary Award.

Each year, we at the Elsmere Fire Company have the honor of recognizing a member who exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for their fellow firefighters.These characteristics, and one’s commitment to the community are traits we value here at Elsmere, and in the fire service in general, and the individual we recognize this evening demonstrates them all.

The initial training that is required to become a firefighter is physically demanding and is no easy feat for anyone.This member, however, completed that training back in [2004] when she was at an age when most folks are considering retirement or golf.This members’ dedication to the fire service has not waned since then.In fact, it has only grown.

Whether it be on the fire ground, at the Company’s fish fries, or while assisting with the Company’s many social and community events, this member is always among the first to volunteer to assist.She helps run the concession stand at the Racing Team’s annual tournament and has been integral in the Company’s many recruitment and retention efforts.Her dedication to the Company in all of its various roles is unquestionable.

Where this member shines brightest, however, is her concern and care for her fellow firefighters.This member’s friendly, cheerful, and sincere manner make her a natural for providing emotional support to all our members.If you ever need someone to talk to, this member is there.She is especially supportive of our newest members, and takes them under her wing and provides a role model and inspiration to our growing number of female firefighters.Elsmere could not be more proud of her contributions and achievements in that regard.

For these reasons, and for countless more, it is my great pleasure to recognize an amazing woman with this very special award.Although she could not be here this evening, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring Anne Austin as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

This year we are giving this award to an outstanding member who during the past 37 years has demonstrated himself as one of the most respectable firefighters of the Company....

After joining Elsmere in 1979, he has seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. Five years after he joined, he took the pump operators class and began driving all of the apparatus, providing safety, support and experience to all of our incidents. He continues to take classes in his current role demonstrating the importance of education and significance of always improving your skills.

Nine years ago, this member experienced the tragic loss of his son while serving his country in Iraq. The love this recipient selflessly gave to his brothers and sisters was immediately reciprocated by his Elsmere family during this extremely difficult time. And despite this unthinkable loss, our recipient continued to remain as an active firefighter and serve the residents in his community, as well as the world with his ambitious Uncle Shawn Hug’s mission of making blanket for poor children each year. The following year he was elected as a Director, and continued to assist with the leadership and administration of our Company. In the past few years, our recipient experienced some health issues which would have made others less like to remain active, but his tireless commitment to his Fire Company and its mission keeps him as active today as he was 37 years ago. As I stated earlier, this award requires three characteristics; Dedication, professionalism and Concern. Our recipient has demonstrated these traits throughout his entire tenure with Elsmere in what he says and what he does

It is my great pleasure to present this special award to this special member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring this gentlemen Paul L. Martin as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth E McNary Achievement Award.

President John C. Murphy received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award at the Inspection ceremonies on May 9, 2015.

President Murphy joined the Elsmere Fire Company on November 28, 1993 and became an active member on January 28, 1999. He served the Company as Director from 2007 through 2012, and as President since 2013. He was recognized for his response to the World Trade Center 9/11 tragedy. During his term as President, John has been instrumental to the success of many Company undertakings, especially the Annual Fish Fry's and guidance for the Company's Explorer Post 30. 

Assistant Chief Frank Wickham joined the Elsmere Fire Company in April 1989, twenty-five years ago.

He served as Company Property Clerk in 1992, Vice-President in 1995 and 1996, and Company President in 1998. He became a Fire Lieutenant in 1999 and served in that capacity for four years. In 2001, he was part of a team from Elsmere Fire Department that responded to Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks. He was named Elsmere's Firefighter of the Year in 2002. He has served as 2nd Assistant Chief from 2004 through 2012 and currently serves as 1st Assistant Chief. Frank is in charge of the Department's Training program, where he is constantly bringing new ideas, opportunities for firematic education and learning opportunities to the membership of the Elsmere Fire Company. He is active in many other firematic organizations,  such as the Urban Search & Rescue Team, NYS Association of Fire Chiefs, Red Knights, Albany County Volunteer Fireman's Association, FASNY, Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Fireman's Association and the Town of Bethlehem FAST Team where he serves as a team leader. Congratulations to Assistant Chief Frank Wickham on his selection for recipient of the 25th Annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

The 2013 recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award is Past Chief William H. Webb.

He assumed the office of Chief under most difficult circumstances with the passing of Chief Kevin M. Shea in a Line of Duty Death in 2004. Chief Webb rarely missed a Tuesday evening drill, monthly meeting or a Commissioners meeting. He always quickly called a signal at an emergency in the middle of the night , preventing unecessary response of personnel at emergency calls. Chief Webb selflessly served as Chief for nine years in order to help in the development of junior officers before he left office.

Past Chief Webb joined the Elsmere Fire Company A, Inc. on June 27, 1985 and served as Company Treasurer in 1987. He served as 3rd Lieutenant in 1989, 1990 and 1991; 1st Lieutenant in 1992, 1993 and 1994; Captain in 1995 and 1996; 2nd Assistant Chief from 1997 through 2002; 1st Assistant Chief in 2003; and Chief from 2004 through 2012. He was awarded the NA Blanchard Post 1040 Firefighter of the Year in 2005 and again in 2008. He also served as Chairman of the Company's Annual Fish Fries for many years, helping to provide financial support for the Fire Company.

It is our priviledge to honor Past Chief Webb as the twenty-fourth recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

President Joseph M. Catalano is the 2012 recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

Joe joined the Elsmere Fire Company on July 26, 1990 and became an active firefighter on August 30th of that year. He left the active ranks on January 1, 1995 and returned to active duty on September 27, 2001. With fifteen years of active service, Joe served as the Company's Lay Chaplain in 1991 and 1992, 2001 and since 2006. In 1992 Joe was elected to a three year term as Director. In 2002, he was elected Vice-President. Subsequently Joe was elected Company President in 2003, 2004 and 2005. Most recently, Joe was again elected to lead the Company as President in December 2011. Joe resides in Elsmere and is retired from the NYS Higher Education Services Corporation. He is very involved in the community, and particularly with community youth and church. Proud to have members of Joe Catalano's caliber, the Elsmere Fire Co. A, Inc. is rightfully known as "The Pride of Bethlehem".

Daniel P. McMahon Jr. joined the Elsmere Fire Company on June 29, 1978, becoming an active firefighter on August 8th of that year. He served as a Lieutenant from April 1988 through April 1990, and again from November 1991 through April 1993.

Firefighter McMahon's resume of firefighter training is too lengthy to detail here, including more than fifty courses completed. Dan is also very active in the Town of Bethlehem Fire Officers Association and the District's fire prevention program. He is a Life Member of the Elsmere Fire Co. A, Inc. and was awarded Life Membership in the Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Fireman's Association in July 2006. Dan's active involvement in and service to the Elsmere Fire Company and the Elsmere Fire District is testimony to the committees decision to name him as recipient of this award.

Terry Hannigan is a thirteen year veteran of the Elsmere Fire Department. He came to us with experience from a previous membership in Carmen Fire Department. He was also an Explorer for Niagara County Sheriff's Office. Terry has been an Emergency Medical Technician since he was seventeen years old.

He worked for the Capital District Ambulance service while he put himself through law school. He graduated from Albany Law School in 1985. Terry has received several citations for assisting in the reversal of cardiac arrests. Terry has acted as Counsel for the Elsmere Fire District for many years and was instrumental in reforming Line of Duty Death (LODD) benefit legislation. A number of fire and EMS families have benefited from his efforts, including the family of Chief Kevin M. Shea after his LODD in 2004. He is also a very active member of the Department's Public Education Committee. He has served on the Town of Bethlehem 20/20 Committee, which is a Committee charged with studying Bethlehem's needs for the future. In the background, Terry has always made himself available to help fellow firefighters with legal questions or help with a legal issue.

Captain John Zboray (on right) was awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters and who maintains a high level of commitment to the Elsmere Fire Company and the community.

John joined the Elsmere Fire Company in March 1973. He served the Company as Vice-President, Lieutenant and Captain over a thirty-six year period. He has also been instrumental in the Company's hosting of Albany County and Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association conventions.

Firefighter Robert C. White was posthumously awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters and who maintains a high level of commitment to the Elsmere Fire Company and the community. Firefighter White joined the Elsmere Fire Company in November 1968. He served the Company as Secretary, Fire Lieutenant, Vice-President and President over a twenty-two year period. He also chaired the Company's Albany County Volunteer Fireman's Association Convention Committee in 1982. Sadly, Firefighter White passed away during his 40th year of active membership in the Elsmere Fire Company.

This years award goes to a member with 30 years of service. He always wanted to be a firefighter and had encouragement from his wife after moving to Poplar Drive. After being a member for only one year, he was elected Vice-President of the Fire Company. He served in that capacity for one year. Taking his professional insights and encouragement from some late night meetings at Dick Hendrick's house he decided to run for the office of Fire District Commissioner. He served two full five year terms in that office and a partial 3rd term before moving out of the Fire District and forfeiting his seat on the board. He has been a member of the R & R committee since 1989 and served as Chair of the Nomination Committee for many years starting in 1984. Always with a smile, a joke, or a bit of wisdom, he has been a friend to everyone. Congratulations to the 18th Annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award winner, James B. Hogan Jr.

This year's award goes to a member who has served both the fire line and civil line in various capabilities. Joining the Fire Company in 1977 he wasted no time in serving the company. Beginning with the position of Secretary in 1978. In 1982, 1983, and 1984 he served as the Fire Company Treasurer. He was then elected to two consecutive three year terms as Director. In 1992 he moved from the company line to the fire line where he served as Fire Lieutenant in 1992 and again in 1993. He is a life member who has taken many firematic course including hazmat operations, hazmat tech and confined space awareness.

In his professional capacity he assisted the Fire District with acquisition and survey for the Feura Bush Road property, the new garage and parking agreements and space with St. Stephens Church. He also assisted the District with two renovation projects over the years. He has helped many friends and Elsmere members with technical issues and surveys for their property.

This year's award is presented to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community.

We first met this year's recipient in 1992. We were introduced by past Chief and past Town Supervisor Bob Hendrick. He had agreed to help in the planning and execution of the Town of Bethlehem's Bi-Centennial Celebration. Shortly after the end of this task he joined the Fire Company. With ten years of service, he has been an officer of the Fire Company for six years, serving as Treasurer. With a tireless energy, Bob makes sure every aspect of the job as treasurer is done correctly. Bob has updated and computerized all of the Fire Co.'s financial records. While applying for the necessary permits to host the 2004 Convention of the Albany County and Hudson Mohawk Firematic Associations, Bob found an error. An error of enormous magnitude that had taken place in the early history of the Fire Company. Facing the possibility of daily fines that could devastate our financial status, Bob worked with State and Federal officials until the problem was corrected. Ultimately we were not fined. To date all State and Federal guidelines have been met, and the financial future of the Fire Company has been secured. 'As a fire police officer, Bob can always be found in the streets protecting the firefighters from drivers unaware of their presence. Bob is there in any type of weather to do the task assigned to him. Bob has also volunteered and worked on many other community events. He was instrumental in the Bethlehem Feestilik, the Veteran's Memorial, and Town of Bethlehem Senior Services to name a few. He served as a member of the Town Board and was awarded Citizen of the Year by the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce in 1999. It is with great pleasure on behalf the Elsmere Fire Company A Inc. that I present Robert C. Johnson with the 16th Annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

The 2004 McNary award goes to an individual who is a friend of everyone. He is a thirty year member of the Fire Company, and a Past Chief.

Ricky Webster joined in 1974 and was instrumental in forming the drill team. As ambassadors to the Fire Company Rick and the team traveled the state promoting the friendship and firemanship mantra of Central New York. Ricky grew up around the firehouse while his Dad, Fred, climbed the ladder of offices to become Chief. He would sometimes ride to fires in the Chief's car of that day with his Dad. Ricky climbed the same ladders of office and held the position of Chief from 1992 until 1997. Like his Dad, Rick is now a Commissioner, and they both now have their names inscribed on the McNary Cup. Ricky knows the spirit of what Elsmere is about. Through the many offices held, he has tried to keep that spirit and continuity within the organization. Rick truly loves the fire service, and the Elsmere Fire Company. His dedication and work over the years has helped make Elsmere what it is today. The Pride of Bethlehem! Congratulations to the 15th annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award Winner Richard S. Webster.

This year the award goes to an individual, who is a quiet and unassuming person, always busy with work that no one really knows is taking place. He has been a Treasurer of his church, and has sat on the board of the Good Samaritan Home. For many years he was a coach of the Blue Cross- Blue Shield Babe Ruth Team.

At the firehouse he has worked closely with Chief Costigan to set up a systematic administrative procedure to take the burden of that task off of the officers so they can devote more time to their individual responsibilities. He also does quality control of the fire reports so the proper info is there when the Chief reviews them. He took the updates and recording of points and alarm reporting to NYSOFPC from paper forms to computer software. He also maintains M38 and has been used to check out M39 to be sure that it is up and ready for use if called again by the urban search and rescue team. He established and maintains a checkout system for the radios and radio batteries to eliminate charging and repair problems that affect fireground operations. As Lieutenant of the Fire Police, he pre-plans locations in the fire district and trains on fire police operations. He also chairs the newsletter committee know as the Firehorn where he gathers and edits Company information to go out quarterly. He also has taken on the task of printing the newsletter himself which saves the Fire Company a significant amount of money each year. The Chief says he is lucky to have a fast paced, aggressive, thorough person with private industry experience who knows how to cut through the "BS" and get things done. He is often one step ahead of the Chief's request to do something and stays with the task until it is complete, and he doesn’t pass the buck. Ladies and gentleman may I present the 14th annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award winner, Ariel L. Goodrich.

This year the award goes to a person who has made a definite impact on the Fire Company and the Fire Service. He is a 28-year member who we know as Jack. His wife knows him as John. Others know him as Senator. He has been called "Jackie the Jokeman" by some and "Action Jackson" by others.

Jack served three terms as Vice-President of the Fire Company and was Company President for three terms. As President, in 1982, he led us through our first Albany County Convention and helped us to build a respectable Treasury. Later, Jack identified a need of the Fire Company and made arrangements for us to purchase our first bus. We have gone from that little red bus to a beautiful new coach that carries the inscription identifying us as the "Pride of Bethlehem", and "Proud to Have Served at Ground Zero"

'departments, where we are able to see how the FDNY or Boston Fire Departments operate. We have seen major dispatching facilities in Boston, training facilities in Nassau, and the super pumper in NewYork. We have been on private tours around the Boston Harbor and the New York harbor in the shadows of the World Trade Center on a fireboat. Jack also made arrangements for us to have dinner in NYC with the number one firefighter in command of Manhattan, Vincent Dunn.' In 1988 Jack was appointed Director of the Bethlehem Office of Emergency Management, or BEMO and still holds that title today. That was the beginning of a new direction for Jack because in 1992 he became Chairman of Albany County Local Emergency Planning Committee. Also, in the same year he was appointed Deputy Fire Coordinator of Albany County. In 1993 he became Deputy Director of Albany County Office of Emergency Management. Jack currently holds the title of Albany County Fire Coordinator, and has since 1996. As Coordinator he oversees many Deputies and is ultimately responsible for the County's preparedness for fire emergencies. Some of the other facets of this job include the Haz Mat program, J-Fire, Recruitment and Retention, Altamont Fair Educational Center and the County Fire Instructors, where he oversees the County Fire Training program. It is because of Jack's many years of dedication to the fire service, both locally and countywide, that I am proud to present the 13th annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award to John E. Brennan.

The award this year goes to an individual who joined the Fire Company twenty-six years ago . He has been busy advancing in the fire service as well as the emergency medical service. Having served in the capacities of Vice-President, 3rd Lieutenant, 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant, he currently holds the rank of Captain since 1997.

The award this year goes to an individual who joined the Fire Company twenty-six years ago . He has been busy advancing in the fire service as well as the emergency medical service. Having served in the capacities of Vice-President, 3rd Lieutenant, 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant, he currently holds the rank of Captain since 1997. While advancing through these offices he was also spending the many hours required to become proficient in the EMS field. Becoming an EMT and advancing to Paramedic status he has contributed significantly to the Town of Bethlehem and surrounding communities. Being one of the first local paramedics, he was appointed to the Town EMS Task Force, which laid the groundwork for ALS, or advanced life support services in our community. He has taken the knowledge he gained and made it a career. Currently, working as a paid paramedic for the Town of Guilderland, he he is a supervisor for the paramedic program. He has been awarded and recognized for his life saving efforts and successful heart attack reversals. He is a member of the Albany County Fire Advisory Board which is by appointment of the County Legislature. Under this heading he also serves with Albany County EMS, Albany County Recruitment, Albany County 911 radio committee and Albany County Quality Improvement. His concept of Firefighters and Their Role at Motor Vehicle Accidents was published by Firehouse Magazine. With this insight Elsmere started sending apparatus to accident scenes. This is now common throughout the County. Present responsibilities as Captain are training and safety. He has taken many county and state training courses and has also taught many EMS, first aid and CPR classes for Elsmere members. The 2001 recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award is Jim Reagan!

The award this year goes to an individual who meets these criteria in every respect, and he may be the most popular choice to receive this award yet. If we went only on the record, this individual might be passed over. He has only served in one office throughout his volunteer career, that of Property Clerk in the early sixties. With forty-seven years of Active Service, he is the spirit of the Fire Company. All members, new and old, hold him in high regard and respect as a veteran firefighter. As a driver he has chauffeured many firefighters to all types of emergencies. He is always at drill with a “hi, how are you?”. He is senior man at all daytime calls where he is always helping out the newer members. You can’t go anywhere with him, without someone recognizing him and wanting to share memories of years gone by. He was recognized as Fireman of the Year in 1991.

When he is not at the firehouse he is across the street at The American Legion Post donating his time to bingo or cooking something up in the kitchen. He and his wife are always looking out for, and helping out when possible, with our local Veterans of Foreign Wars. In the kitchen at the firehouse everyone always anticipates the month that he will be on the Tuesday night food committee, knowing that he will “take care of the boys.”                                                                                  
It is a great honor to introduce the year 2000 recipient of The Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award, Oliver H. Palmer!

The Kenneth E. McNary Award was established in 1990 by the Recruitment and Retention Committee in celebration and recognition of Ken's sixty years of active service to the Elsmere Fire Co. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism and concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and the Community.

The award this year goes to an individual who has thirty-eight years of service to the Fire Company. Joining the active roster in 1961, he quickly started in the direction of his future leadership roles. Beginning as Secretary in 1962 and 1963 to the line office of 3rd Lieutenant and next to 2nd Lieutenant and on to Captain in 1966. Elected 2nd Assistant Chief in 1967 and re-elected in 1968, moving up to 1st Assistant Chief in 1969. Throughout much of this time he was also volunteering his services at the Little League Park on lower Kenwood Avenue leading Hilchies Hardware to victory. Elected as Chief in 1972 he served there until 1975 when he resigned to accept an appointment to the Board of Fire Commissioners. For the last twenty-four years he has served as a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners and has been the Chairman of the Board for many. In 1987 he was appointed to serve as a Town Board Member and served in that capacity through the end of 1995. It is his insight and caring that has brought the Fire Company to the respected position achieved, not only in the local community but also the State of New York. With his direction, we have established a Recruitment and Retention Committee long ahead of everyone else. We have also established the Length of Service Awards Program that has been duplicated by many other fire departments. We have Chief's vehicles and apparatus on a budgeted replacement calendar that has given us one the best fleets of fire apparatus in the State. The morale and family feeling of the Fire Company can all be attributed to his caring and attention to details. 1999 Kenneth E. McNary Award winner, the Chairman of the Board, Frederick C. Webster.

Firefighter Wayne R. Johnson received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1998.

Past Chief and Past Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners J. Robert Hendrick received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1997.

Assistant Chief Kevin M. Shea received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1996.

Firefighter Stephen R. Wright received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1995.

Past Chief George M. Kaufman received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1994.

Firefighter Jerome C. Smith received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1993.

Chief Edward J. Costigan received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1992.

Commissioner Anthony J. Morrell received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1991.

Past Chief Paul H. Kleinke received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1990.