Awards

This award has been given over the years for a variety of reasons; performance on emergency incidents, general leadership, helping other members of the department, and an overall positive attitude toward the department, its members, and the public, but the systemic theme is the high level of dedication to the residents we serve, commitment to the training we receive, and continuous acts of selflessness.

Our awardee this year displays all these characteristics and consistently goes above and beyond his call to duty. He sets the standard and is a role model for all members of our organization. His wealth of knowledge, hard work and experience is something that you simply cannot replace. He symbolizes what the fire service stands for and is a leader by example. As a steadfast member of the department for over 20 years, he best exemplifies the positive characteristics of a member of the Elsmere Fire Company and has a notable record of service and achievements. This individual has given selflessly of himself in support of the department, the fire service in general and the community.

Our awardee has continually demonstrated the highest degree of dedication to activities within in our fire department including training, fire response, public education, and other fire department operations. His dedication to our fire department is unwavering, and is displayed in every activity he participates in.

Our awardee this year demonstrates his loyalty not only in his allegiance to Elsmere Fire, but also to his fellow fighters and officers. Our awardee supports his officer’s efforts to achieve the goals of the fire service, and assists them with creating policies and procedures aimed at improvements in the department or fire service community. Additionally, he performs his fire service duties in a manner that exemplifies the competency that reflects the highest standards of the fire service and regularly demonstrates the ability to lead or follow based on the existing circumstances.

Throughout his time with the Elsmere Fire Department and particularly within the last year, this year’s recipient has demonstrated his dedication to the residents of both this town, and the great State of New York. A recent study conducted by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) showed that volunteer service in New York State saves $4.7 billion a year. Recognizing this tremendous benefit to taxpayers, our awardee this year, was an integral part of the legislation recently passed that is arguably the most significant contribution to the recruitment of volunteer fire service members in at least the last 20 years. In addition, our awardee has helped our department receive numerous grants for recruitment, retention, and training purposes. He also ensures that our department operates with the highest moral and ethical standards by routinely providing and assisting with not only Elsmere’s procedures and policies, but also the Mandated NYS policies required for our members each year.

Our awardee is heavily involved in behind-the-scenes activities, particularly providing guidance and continuous acts of selfishness to many of our members. He has offered and provided legal support and advice to numerous members, and has gone beyond normal duties of firefighting to make visible improvements that have enhanced the department’s ability to reduce fire losses and to better serve the community. Our nominee was integral in the acquisition of 24 Ridge Road and the bunk-in program, which has provided additional manpower to our department, as well as the other outstanding departments in our town. His many contributions truly make Elsmere Fire a better place.

Ladies and gentlemen, for his dedicated service to both the Elsmere Fire department and for his profound service to the State of New York for helping create the Real Property Tax Exemption for Volunteer Firefighters and ambulance workers, please join me in congratulating Tim Hannigan on being selected as Elsmere Fire Department’s Firefighter of the year.

Joseph M Catalano joined the Elsmere Fire Company as a social member in July of 1990. He transferred to active status in August of 1990 and remained active until January 1995. He remained a social member until September 2001 at which time his personal circumstances allowed him to rejoin as an active member. Our nominee served as Lay Chaplain for the Company in 1991, 1992, 2002, and from 2007 through the present time. He also served as a Company Director for a three year term starting in April 1992. The nominee served as Company Vice-President in 2003 and as President from 2004 through 2006 and again in 2012. In May of 2016, the nominee was appointed to the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Elsmere Fire District to fill an unexpired term and has served on the Board ever since. Joe is very active in the Fire Company serving on numerous committees. In 2012, Joe was awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award for his level of achievement and involvement in promoting the goals of the Elsmere Fire Company. In 2015, Joe earned the Kevin M. Shea Participation Award for his outstanding level of participation in Fire Company activities.

In January 2020, Joe booked a vacation trip to sunny Florida to escape the dreary New York winter cold, snow and grey skies. The trip was typical for Joe, who travels to Florida to visit friends and work on his tan. This time, it would be far from business as usual. The flight attendant made an announcement on the loudspeaker requesting any doctor, nurse, EMT, or first responder please report to the back of the plane immediately. Joe rose from his seat instinctively, having no information from a dispatcher or caller to know what the emergency details were. He saw what appeared to be an unconscious male passenger in the middle seat of a 3-seat row. The flight attendant who was requesting the assistance also had found a physician on board, and Joe and the physician began asking questions of the patient’s family members to determine if there were any underlying conditions or activity that would have initiated a medical event. Joe asked the flight attendant if there was an AED on the plane and asked her to retrieve it “NOW!” Helping the patient, Joe said he thought he could feel a faint pulse and the doctor said he could not. Joe asked the doctor to put the unresponsive patient down on the floor of the plane, and they began removing his shirt. Joe applied pads to the skin and the AED was activated and the screen displayed “DO NOT SHOCK”. Although the physician did want to shock the patient, Joe held firm the decision not to. As if by a small miracle, Joe began to feel the patient’s pulse get stronger, and the family of the patient said that the patient may be diabetic. Joe asked the flight attendant for orange juice or glucose packs, which she obtained for him, and he then administered the glucose pack to the man who luckily was able to open his mouth. About twenty minutes later, the patient started to regain consciousness, and opened his eyes. He was more alert and began speaking. Joe, the doctor, the patient and his family all were advised to stay together for the duration of the flight until they made it to Orlando. Joe was wearing an Elsmere Fire Department shirt that day, as he exited the plane and helped transfer the patient to Orlando Airport emergency personnel. Elsmere Fire Department should be honored to have such a brave and heroic firefighter in their family to teach us all that although you can be trained on how to use an AED, you have to remember when NOT to use one, as it could have done more harm than good. To respond to the aid of a stranger without questioning their emergency is a true act of heroism and the courage to make decisions in a crisis. That is why Joseph Catalano is being nominated for the Firefighter of the Year Award 2022.

The Elsmere Firefighter of the Year Award is typically presented in March at the Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040 annual Community Service Awards ceremony. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be announcing our 2021 nominee for the first time today...

This award has been given over the years for a variety of reasons, but the common theme is dedication to the residents of the district we serve, commitment to the training we receive, and continuous acts of selflessness. This year’s nominee displays all of these characteristics and consistently goes above and beyond his call to duty.

When used as a verb, the word “Dedicated” means: to devote time, effort, and oneself to a particular task or purpose. When describing an individual as “dedicated to the residents of the district we serve”, it’s difficult not to immediately think of this member. Almost instantly after an alarm is dispatched, there is hardly a time when you haven’t heard his voice on the air or seen him in one of our fire trucks responding. Therefore, it was as natural as breathing that our nominee sprang in to action on June 20, 2020. After clearing a routine fire alarm call on this day, our nominee was in the radio room finishing up some paperwork when an EMS call came in over the radio for an ECHO response to a home on Lincoln Avenue in the Elsmere Fire District. An ECHO call is the highest priority EMS call and typically indicates that the patient is in need of rapid care. As volunteer firefighters, we are all trained in CPR and first aid, however the vast majority of us hope we never have to put these skills to use. But without hesitation, our nominee responded to the EMS call knowing he may be the first to arrive on the scene. With Lincoln Avenue only around the corner from the firehouse his response and efforts were critical to the patient, a female in her mid 60’s in cardiac arrest. Our nominee arrived on the scene along with a Delmar EMT and they immediately started CPR. While our nominee performed CPR, the Delmar EMT prepped the patient for the arrival of the ambulance and use of the AED. After the ambulance arrived and the automated chest compression device was fitted to the patient, our nominee moved from a position of CPR to bagging the patient. He continued in this mode while the ambulance crew and Paramedic successfully got vitals back on the patient and transported her to the hospital.

The patient was treated in the hospital ICU for approximately two weeks before sadly, passing away from the incident. However, this additional time, undoubtedly difficult, allowed the family to prepare and say goodbye to their loved one.

It’s these acts of kindness and selflessness that made choosing this year’s nominee an easy decision. In addition to his actions we have mentioned, this year’s nominee is an integral part of the Elsmere Fire Company. He’s been an active member of the Company since March 25, 2004, where he hit the ground running. Just a few months later could be seen driving down Bender Lane qualifying on Squad 33, and he has been actively involved in all aspects of the company ever since. He has served as Lay Chaplain and has been a Lieutenant for the past 14 years, being first elected 3rd Lieutenant in 2007. He is the 2006 Kevin M. Shea Firematic Participation Award recipient and has shown no signs of slowing down since, as he continues to be a top responder nearly every year. In addition to his duties as 1st Lieutenant, he organizes all of our fire prevention details and serves as the unofficial “public relations officer” of the Elsmere Fire Company, as well as the most competitive Inspection Team Lt. in the Company. For this year’s nominee, firefighting is a family affair. He currently serves alongside his father in-law and oldest son who are also some of our most dedicated members.

His selfless actions that day made a difference for the family and for the EMS crew, because through his training and quick action, he gave them all a chance for a better outcome. For his actions on that June day, and countless other reasons,

Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in honoring Lt. Michael A. Moon, as we proudly select him as this year’s nominee for Firefighter of the Year.

Fire Police Lieutenant Stephen R. Wright was once again awarded Firefighter of the Year for the Elsmere Fire Company at an awards ceremony hosted by the Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040 on March 2, 2020. Click Here to View the Nominating Letter .

Lieutenant Wright was also recognized with this award at a virtual awards ceremony at the Elsmere Fire Station on the evening of 9/24/2020.

Past President John C. Murphy was honored as Elsmere Fire Company's 2019 Firefighter of the Year at a ceremony conducted at the NA Blanchard Post #1040 on March 4, 2019....

This year’s recipient is a great firefighter and leader.Willing to take on numerous responsibilities without the title or pay, this candidate exemplifies the positive characteristics of a member of the fire service and one who has a notable record of service and achievements. Our recipient is a professional and has exceptional work ethics, always remembering to represent the department in a positive light in public.Our selection this year is presented to an individual who has given selflessly of himself in support of the department, the fire service in general and the community.

He has been an active member of our Company for 20 years.And has been a true example of demonstrating the characteristics worthy of this prestigious award.After joining Elsmere in January of 1999, he has seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. This individual has demonstrated the highest degree of dedication and participation to activities within the Elsmere Fire Department including community outreach, fire response, public education and other fire department operations.This individual supports others efforts to achieve the goals of the fire service, and engages in activities aimed at improvements in our department and our community.Our recipient this year always goes beyond the normal duties of his position and has made visible improvements that have enhanced Elsmere’s ability to better serve the community.Understanding that a strong membership is vital to the success of any organization, he worked tirelessly at increasing and improving our active and social membership, and has helped us maintain our department at a capacity level.Our recipient also realizes the significance of giving back to a community that has so generously supported our department.Each year he works with the Bethlehem food pantry to help coordinate the delivery of the numerous amounts of food donated to the pantry, and encourages our membership to give generously from what they have to support our residents who are most in need. And he performs this task in a manner that demonstrates the competency that reflects the highest standards of the Elsmere Fire Department and proves his ability to lead.

Our recipient was also involved in a new endeavor this year helping to create a bunk-in program to solicit additional members while they are away at school and assist our Department as well as the Town with extra manpower to protect our residents.He continues to work on this committee and is focused on its continued growth and success.

He was elected as a Director in 2007 and for the past 11 years has served on Elsmere’s Company Board.He began his 12^th year in January where he continues to assist with the leadership and administration of our Company.Many of the policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines currently in place today include his guiding hand and input.During his tenure as a board member, 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.

As this recipient is retired, you would expect that his drill attendance and fire call totals would be proportionally lower, however, his dedication and passion for volunteering has kept his fire call totals in the top ten for our department for many years, including this past year.This passion is deeply rooted, and easily recognized.

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 John Murphy, as this year’s recipient of the Firefighter of the Year.

Commissioner John E Brennan was named Elsmere Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year for 2018....

Firefighter of the Year

Elsmere Fire Department – March 5, 2018

When you think of the Elsmere Fire Department’s motto “The Pride of Bethlehem” you can’t help but to think of this individual, and I am proud to endorse this year’s recipient. As a member of the Elsmere Fire Department for over four decades, this individual has long exemplified a level of commitment that can serve as a model for others. He clearly recognizes the impact that Elsmere has had on his life, and has been aggressive in giving back to this department, and our community. He has been a motivating force for our department, and has balanced his family, career and community involvement, in an extraordinary manner. He personifies all that is right about the fire service.

This year’s awardee joined this department 44 years ago and began taking on leadership roles within his first year as a member, and has remained in in a leadership role for the past 43 years. He has served as Company Vice President, Company President, and then after only 10 years as a member, he was elected commissioner and has remained in that position for the past 34 years! And for the past 7 of them, has served as Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners. His commitment to serving the residents of Bethlehem goes even beyond his role as a firefighter. He currently serves as the Director of the Bethlehem Emergency Management Office, a position he has held since January 5^th, 1988. His commitment to protecting lives and property is exemplary. He has also held numerous other leadership positions including Deputy Director of the Albany County Office of Emergency Management, Deputy Fire Coordinator, Albany County Fire Coordinator, and Chairman of the Albany County Local Emergency Planning Committee. Additionally, he has won many prestigious awards throughout his distinguished carrier, including Elsmere Fire Department’s Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.

This individual has been a strong voice and advocate for the fire services. His influential leadership has helped advance Elsmere’s mission and priorities in very specific ways for the past four decades.

As our community continues to grow, this individual recognized our need to ensure the same high level of fire protection to those emerging areas in our fire district. In 1982 he was one the commissioners who decided to purchase land on the southern portion of our district knowing that someday this area would be developed more fully and require additional fire protection. Since 1982, this individual has been a motivating force in fiscal responsibility ensuring this vision and the community’s fire protection needs would be met. Thanks to his persistence, efforts, and hard work, this vision will become a reality by the end of this year.

This individual continues to be a valued member of the Elsmere Fire Department. Outside of his annual pilgrimage to Florida, he rarely misses a day at his office, and simply put, he loves to come to the firehouse. He has a quick wit, and keeps the laughter flowing and the mood light. He is always courteous and respectful and is quick to lend a helping hand whenever one is needed.

The Elsmere Fire Department could not have achieved the level of excellence is stands for today without his unwavering dedication to his fellow residents and firefighters. It is with sincere conviction and pleasure that we enthusiastically select Jack Brennan as this year’s recipient of Firefighter of the Year.

Fire Police Lieutenant Stephen R. Wright was honored at Elsmere Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year at ceremonies at the NA Blanchard Post #1040 on March 6, 2017.

Steve joined the Department in July 1975. He has been very involved over the course of his 42 year career. On May 11, 2002 Steve received recognition for his involvement in the 9/11 World Trade Center response. He chaired the Company's Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association Convention in 1992, and the joint Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Firemen's Association / Albany County Volunteer Firemen's Association Convention in 2004. While remaining an active member, he received Life Membership in the Elsmere Fire Company in August of 2000. In 1995, Steve was awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1995.

Steve is a member of a number of volunteer firefighter organizations. He served as Property Clerk from April 1979 through April 1983, Vice-President from April 1983 through April 1984 and again from January 1998 through January 1999. He was again elected Vice-President from January 2016 to January 2017. Steve served as President of the Elsmere Fire Company from April 1984 through April 1990, and from January 2000 through January 2002. He also served as a Director from April 1995 through April 1998.

Most recently, Steve has served and continues to serve as Lieutenant of the Fire Police Unit. He has held this rank continuously since January 2009.

This level of involvement easily explains why Steve was selected as Firefighter of the Year, and is well deserving of this recognition. The nominating letter appears below:

March 6, 2017

Commander Scott Anson

Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040

16 West Poplar Drive

Delmar, New York 12054

Commander Anson:

I, along with the rest of the members of the Elsmere Fire Company would like to thank our friends at the Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040 for once again providing us with the opportunity to recognize an outstanding member of Bethlehem’s Emergency Services.Throughout the year the members of the Legion support us and their community in countless ways, and for that, they forever have our friendship and gratitude.We are truly blessed to have such good neighbors.

This year it is my distinct honor to acknowledge a member who first joined Elsmere before many in this room were even born. To put things into perspective, the year this member joined, Saturday Night Live debuted, Ali beat Fraser in the “Thriller in Manila” and the song “Low Rider” was just starting to climb the charts.It is surprising we have records dating back this far, however, it should be noted that shortly after this member joined he soon rose to various elected positions within the Company and ultimately serving as President of Elsmere for close to a decade – a feat almost unheard of in Elsmere’s long history.Between responding to hundreds of emergency calls, this member also served as a Property Clerk, Vice-President, and Director of the Company.He has worn many hats and helmets, and each time has done so with distinction.

In 1992 and again in 2004 he was the Chairman of the Hudson-Mohawk Volunteer Firefighters Association Convention.He was recognized in 2002 for his service in response to the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center and also received the Ken McNary and Kevin M. Shea awards.For the past 9 years he has served as Fire Police Lieutenant and has done an outstanding job keeping the public and his fellow firefighters safe.This firefighter has dedicated his life to caring for his brothers and sisters in the fire service, and that is perhaps his greatest accomplishment.

You see, in addition to all of his firematic achievements and accomplishments, this man possesses another trait which sets him apart -- his acts of kindness and generosity, which are on a monumental scale.Each of us has witnessed his grace and courage on an individual and frequent basis, particularly when it comes to our most senior firefighters.He has taught us to “never forget” them and always honor them for their past service.We have lost many brothers over the past decade, and this past year has been particularly difficult, however, in each case, this year’s recipient has always ensured that our departed members and their families were looked after.He keeps in touch with our aging members and their families in their times of need, and always remembers milestones in their lives and pays special tribute to them.He personally invites them to all of our special events, and arranges transportation for them and their families.He shares with us many words of wisdom, including recently telling one of our members, “don’t wait.”Don’t wait to make a difference in someone’s life, do it now before it’s too late.Those words resonate with all of us, and he continues to mentor and inspire all of us who are fortunate enough to serve with him.

A few years ago, he chaired and organized an “Old Timers Night” to honor, reflect upon, and recognize many of our senior members.These members told us how special an evening it was for them and how it made them feel wanted and a valuable part of the department.Many of these members have since passed away, but this year’s recipient will always remain a hero to them and a mentor to us.Not every day offers a chance to save someone’s life, but every day offers us an opportunity to affect one.This is the philosophy that embodies this year’s recipient.This is why many of the current programs and awards in place at Elsmere exist today.He organized and created them when he was president and each day reminds us to “Never Forget” those that have come before us, and those that stand beside us.

For all of these reasons, and countless more, it is with great honor that I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly nominate Lt. Steve Wright as this year’s Firefighter of the Year.

Respectfully submitted,

John Murphy                                                                               Frank Wickham

     President                                                                                     Fire Chief

     Elsmere Fire Company                                                               Elsmere Fire Department

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. 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 also serve.

On Monday, March 2nd two Elsmere firefighters were awarded Forefighter of the Year at the N.A. Blanchard Post 1040. Chief James Reagan and Firefighter James Trotta were selected for this honor by the Elsmere Fire Company. Click the "Read More" link to see the letter of nomination....

Dear Commander Martelle,

Thank you for again sponsoring the Annual Awards Ceremony,  providing the opportunity for Bethlehem emergency services organizations to recognize those who distinguished themselves in 2014. The      Elsmere Fire Company has selected two individuals for firefighter of the year honors for their life saving efforts in2014.

                On March 5, 2014, five men from Brooklyn New York became separated and lost while snowmobiling in the Adirondacks near Speculator. It was late afternoon on a day when temperatures were expected to drop to 17 below zero overnight. With no snowmobiling experience and no training in working in extreme cold weather they were unaware of the dangers involved. They were not properly dressed and had not considered the absence of cell phone service. Elsmere firefighter of the year candidate #1, who has a camp in the area, was out for a solo, late day snowmobile ride when he came upon one of the lost men. Despite a significant language barrier, it was determined that all of the sleds were stuck in the snow at various locations. The other 4 individuals were located and their machines were put back in operation. It took several hours of intensive labor but in the end all 5 men were escorted safely back to the snowmobile rental facility. An employee of the rental facility stated they would not have gone looking for the men until the next morning. Their savior is 25 year Elsmere firefighter and retired New York State Police trooper, James Trotta.  For 17 years of his 25 year tenure with Elsmere Jim has held civil offices; 12 years as a Director and 5 years as Company President. He remains a class A firefighter, member of our competitive drill team and currently holds the position of District Quartermaster.

 On May 21, 2014 a woman shopping at Lowes in Glenmont experienced cardiac arrest. A group of people had gathered, but nothing was being done to help her. Elsmere candidate #2, shopping for birdseed and light bulbs, came on the scene and determined that the woman had no pulse and was not breathing. CPR was started and after 2 minutes, the woman’s pulse returned and she started breathing. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive the woman suffered yet another cardiac arrest and CPR was again administered until the paramedics arrived and were able to transport the individual to the hospital. Forty year Elsmere member, Chief James Reagan, is credited with saving the woman’s life. Jim has held elected positions for 24 of his 40 years of service: 2 as Company Vice President, 11 years in Company line offices, 9 as Assistant Chief, and is currently serving his 4^th year as Chief of the Department. As a long time paramedic, Jim has been credited with saving several lives using CPR. Jim has been the recipient of many awards over the years including Firefighter of the Year in 1998.

 We are proud to present these distinguished gentlemen to you for consideration.

  Firematically Yours,

 Elsmere Fire Company A 

(Note: Firefighter Trotta is fifth from right, and Chief Reagan is sixth from right in the photo)

Lieutenant Marc F. Futia received Elsmere Fire Company's Firefighter of the Year award at a ceremony hosted by Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post No. 1040 on March 3, 2014.

Lieutenant Futia was cited for his rescue of an elderly female from a serious structure fire on New Scotland Road in Slingerlands in September 2013. Although the fire victim did subsequently succumb to her injuries, she was alive when Elsmere Lieutenant Futia, Slingerlands Firefighter Ryan McConky and Slingerlands Chief Brian Sleurs removed her from the burning structure. Lieutenant Marc Futia, who was working in the area at the time the structure fire was reported, grabbed turnout gear from the first arriving Slingerlands engine to arrive at the scene, and accompanied Slingerlands firefighters who entered the building and effected a successful rescue. Congratulations to Elsmere Fire Lieutenant Marc Futia and the Slingerlands firefighters for a job well done. Click Here to Read Letter of Nomination.

Captain Robert C. Baldwin, Jr. was honored as Elsmere Fire Company A's Firefighter of the Year at a ceremony on March 4th at the NA Blanchard Post 1040. Please click "Read More" to see comments by President John C. Murphy during the presentation of the award...

March 4, 2013

Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040
16 West Poplar Drive
Delmar, New York  12054

Commander Reidel,

The Elsmere Fire Company A would like thank the members of the Nathaniel Adams Blanchard Post 1040 for this opportunity to put the men and women of the Town of Bethlehem Emergency Services in the spotlight by allowing us to recognize an individual that epitomizes our collective commitment to the public safety of all who live, work, or play in this wonderful community. In addition, the members of Elsmere Fire Company A would like to publicly thank the Legion 1040 Post and all of its associated units for being such good neighbors throughout the year(s). 

This year we are proud to acknowledge a member who came to us from the Albany County Recruitment Program and has been an active firefighter for 14 years.  Joining the Company as a probie at the end of 1999 he subsequently underwent four years of scrutiny and vetting by his peers which resulted in his election to the position of 4^th Lieutenant in 2004. In 2006, he was elected 2^nd Lieutenant and served in this capacity for one year.  The year 2007 saw his ascension to the rank of 1^st Lieutenant which he held for 5 years until this past year when he was elevated by his fellow members to the rank of Captain. Along the way, he obtained his masters degree with a perfect 4.00 GPA, worked as an EMT with the Ambulance Services, joined the ranks of Bethlehem’s Finest, married his sweetheart and moved into a home around the corner from the firehouse. Since then, it’s been midnight shifts for the Finest and daytime runs with the Bravest, a double bonus for those of us that live in Bethlehem. At Elsmere, there is no better role model for us than someone who is humble and modest, who constantly strives to improve his knowledge and skill set towards the betterment of the organization; someone with vision who is also a good listener, has a sense of humor and can be decisive when necessary; a person of integrity, always willing to help someone else succeed.  From year to year chance will randomly knock at fellow responder’s doors with life altering events for those we serve.  The challenge for all of us is to be ready when it’s our door that receives the knock, with chance asking if we are ready to be someone’s best last hope. This year of 2013, our membership is recognizing a talented individual who has committed himself to the business of public safety and through dedication and hard work stands absolutely ready for the knock on the door whether he is behind the wheel  of his police cruiser or riding as an officer on a pumper.  A leader on the fire ground and at the firehouse,  Captain  Robert C. Baldwin Jr.

Respectfully submitted,
John C. Murphy, President
Elsmere Fire Company A, Inc.      

Captain John Zboray joined the Elsmere Fire Company on February 22, 1973 and became an active member on March 6 of that year.

The following letter was read by President Catalano at the NA Blanchard Post 1040 award ceremony...

March 5, 2012

Dear Commander Reidel,

The Recruitment and Retention committee admittedly has a tough job each year selecting the firefighter of the year.  They have to choose from among 75 department members who all do great work.   After going through their choices, the committee chair said to me “We have an excellent choice for this year’s firefighter of the year, and the committee voted unanimously for him”This year’s individual is a firefighter 24hours a day, seven days a week.  Tomorrow marks his 39th anniversary as a firefighter with the Elsmere Fire Company.  He has demonstrated his passion for the job through his positive attitude and his daily commitment to his company.   He motivates those around him through his positive outlook and his ability to encourage optimism rather than cynicism.  He is a professional who takes the job seriously while maintaining an ability to have fun and make someone smile.   He demonstrates his passion for the job through his affirmative attitude, his daily commitment to the department, to his fraternal brothers and the citizens of Bethlehem.  He is an experienced, hardworking professional who can be counted on to get the job done.   He is also an individual that can build anything and fix things.  From the finishing touches on our old members’ room to the garage he built behind the firehouse, this individual has amazed us with his skills and talents.  He is passionate about the care and maintenance of the apparatus in his department.  He has an incredible knowledge and understanding of the apparatus, particularly of Truck 30.  When the Elsmere Fire Department took delivery of ladder Truck 30, he spent an extensive amount of time with the factory representative to learn about the new apparatus. To this day he remains the most knowledgeable on the specifications and operation of the vehicle. He continues to serve as the senior officer that new drivers need to pass muster with before being approved as a driver/operator.  He also maintained our antique “dinky” for many years.  Over the past two years, this individual has completely revamped our annual department driver requalification program which has yielded a 100 percent completion for all of our apparatus drivers.He has also made an impact at Elsmere through his own personal talents, time and effort.  He has tremendous skills in both administration and cooking.  In 1992, he co-chaired the combined 2004 Hudson Mohawk and Albany Count VFA conventions which included the ordering, preparation, and serving of three major dinners along with the food offered to the public for a three day event.  He has made hundreds of meals for all of us at Elsmere.  Most recently, he chaired the instillation ceremony dinner committee.  When Jolly Olie Palmer said “Feed the Boy’s”, he took it seriously, and continues to keep us well fed at all times.  This individual has served in both civil and fire line office;    He has served in civil office as Vice President, and in the Fire Line Office as Lieutenant and Captain.As one of the original members of the Elsmere Wanderers, he is an individual that has touched every aspect of the Elsmere Fire Company.   There isn’t a committee, function, organization or project that this individual hasn’t served on, and our fire company is a better place for it.This individual is active in the Town of Bethlehem Fire Officers Association, and active outside the fire department,  as leader, past commander of the American Legion Son’s and most recently, past Commodore of the Ravena Coeymans Yacht club.This award is given to volunteer firefighters who not only perform admirably on the job, but also are heavily involved in their respective communities, and in that regard, John Zboray was the logical choice.  His high level of maturity allows him to subordinate personal recognition and aspirations for the overall good of his fire company.People such as John are an inspiration for the future of our fire company. He possesses commitment and integrity, and takes his job very seriously.  There is one thing that John is not good at, and that is being singled out and accepting praise or accolades for his actions.  On behalf of the members of the Elsmere Fire Company, it is with great honor that we select (as one of Walt Whitman’s famous poems is entitled “Oh Captain my Captain”) Captain John Zbrory as this year’s firefighter of the year.

Respectively submitted,

Joseph M. Catalano,

President, Elsmere Fire Company A Inc.

Wayne R. Johnson joined the Elsmere Fire Company on March 24, 1961 and became an active firefighter on April 4th of that same year.

He remained active until March 14, 1967, at which time he moved out of Town and became an exempt member. He held exempt status until July 15, 1967 when he returned to Elsmere and resumed duties as an active firefighter. He was recognized on March 8, 2011 for his fifty years of service during ceremonies at the N.A. Blanchard Post #1040.

Wayne was elected as a Director of the Fire Company on April 5, 1968. On October 29, 1970 he assumed the office of 4th Lieutenant. On April 8, 1971 Wayne was elected Company Secretary. He served as the Company's President from April 6, 1972 until April 7, 1977 at which time he resumed duties as Secretary of the Company. He was elected to three year terms as Director on April 6, 1978 and April 3, 1980. On December 1, 1982, Wayne was elected to the office of Fire Commissioner of the Elsmere Fire District and held that office until June 1, 1998. Wayne has been a qualified pump operator, getting the District's fire apparatus to emergency scenes for the past fifty years. He is a past Treasurer and Life Member of the Hudson Mohawk Volunteer Fireman's Association and a member of the Albany County Volunteer Fireman's Association. He was also the recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1998. His current responsibilities include serving as Deputy Secretary-Treasurer of the Elsmere Fire District and as the District's Custodian.

Commander Lukaschat, Invited Guests, Fellow Firefighters, It gives me great pleasure to announce the Elsmere Fire Company’s selection of Firefighter of the Year. The past couple of years we have had occasion to provide to the Legion, the selection of a member who had performed a heroic action. But that is not always the case. Many times, this award is given to someone for their contribution over the long term, or to someone who has taken on a particular cause. This year we asked the Legion to recognize a member who has served the community as an Active member of our Company for 33 years. He has served as Secretary, Treasurer, and Director in our Civil Offices, and he served as 4th and 2nd Lieutenant in the Fire Offices. When I became President 3 years ago, I proposed that our Company needed to become closer to the Community we serve. It had been some time since we had gone door to door to speak with our neighbors and I asked the membership to consider returning to this activity. Not as a fund raiser, but as a chance to let our residents know who we are, and what we do. One member in particular came forward and said he would like to assist in this endeavor. In the end, he did much more than assist, he chaired the committee and organized an event that had the precision of a military maneuver. Elsmere had returned to having an annual event that provided the face to face contact with the community I had hoped for. For the past two years, that activity has been an Open House, and while many other Departments host something similar, it was something new to Elsmere. Again, all the I’s were dotted and the T’s crossed as this member chaired these events. Our membership has recognized the importance of his contributions and respectfully presents the Chairman of our Public Awareness Committee, Mike Cirillo, as 2009’s Firefighter of the Year. James A. Trotta, President

Only nine days later, on August 21st at about 12:30pm, Elsmere Firefighter Michael C. Walsh was leaving his neighborhood when he heard the call come out for "a man down, unknown" in his vicinity. The dispatcher said "the patient was believed to be not breathing." Firefighter Walsh parked his car and ran into the house. The 58 year old victim was inside. His wife was on the phone with the 911 dispatcher. Mike did an initial assessment of the patient who was unresponsive with no pulse and no respirations and told the 911 dispatcher what he had just obtained by a quick assessment. The patient was lying in a pool of his own blood because when he had collapsed he sustained a laceration to the head. Mike told the dispatcher he was about to initiate CPR and hung up the phone. He gave the patient two rescue breaths and began compressions. He continued chest compressions even after EMS arrived while they started an IV line and hooked up an AED. After about 11-12 minutes of CPR and 3 shocks on the AED, rescue crews received a cardiac rhythm and packed the patient up and transported him to St. Peter’s Hospital. The patient’s wife called Mike and thanked him for saving her husband’s life. The doctors indicated that without question, Mike’s early response made a difference between life and death, as he saved the patient about seven minutes of downtime while he provided oxygen to his brain. The patient was in a medically induced coma for 2-3 days and came home from the hospital after 8 days. He is alive and well today. Firefighter Walsh joined the Elsmere Fire Company in August, 1999.

On August 12th, mid-morning, Elsmere Firefighter and Past Chief Edward (Ned) J. Costigan took quick action to assist victims of a motor vehicle accident and revive an elderly patient using CPR while on vacation at Saranac Lake. He heard the unmistakable sounds of a motor vehicle accident and screaming on Route 3 while deploying a kayak in the waters of Saranac Lake. He returned to shore and rushed toward the scene of the accident. He found a serious head-on motor vehicle accident with vehicles smoking. He not only assisted other travelers in removing the occupants from the smoking vehicles, but was also able to triage a family of five from one vehicle, and revive an elderly female from the other vehicle who was unresponsive, by using a short burst of CPR prior to arrival of local EMS and firefighters. The elderly female victim, who was in critical condition at the Vermont Medical Center ICU, has now been upgraded to fair condition. Firefighter Costigan joined the Elsmere Fire Company in August, 1971 and served as Chief from 1998 through 2003.

Chief Webb joined the Elsmere Fire Company as a firefighter on June 27, 1985. He was elected Fire Company Treasurer in October 1987. He served as a Fire Lieutenant from April 1989 through April 1995. In April 1995, he was elected to the position of Fire Captain. He served in this capacity until December 1997. Chief Webb was elected 2nd Assistant Chief in December 1997 and served in that capacity until December 2003, when he was promoted to the rank of 1st Assistant Chief. In February 2004, he was elected to fill the position of Chief, left vacant by the untimely line of duty death of Chief Kevin M. Shea. Chief Webb continues to serve as the Department's Chief. Chief Webb is a member of the Elsmere FAST Team and chairs the Fire Company's popular Fish Fry Dinner Committee, which many residents of the Town enjoy on four Friday evenings during February and March. He is also trained in Hazardous Materials Incident Command. Chief Webb was commended for his brave actions during a fire at a local nursing home. At 3:01am on December 17, 2007, he responded to a report of a structure fire in an elderly resident's room. As one of the first firefighters to arrive, Chief Webb was able to make his way through a smoke filled wing of the nursing home to the elderly resident's room. Finding that sprinklers had extinguished the fire involving the resident's clothing and surroundings, he was able to remove the seriously burned resident from danger and further injury with the assistance of Bethlehem Police Officer Frank Muller. Chief Webb also received this award at Post No. 1040 on March 7, 2005.

The Elsmere Fire Co. A, Inc. is proud to recognize Ariel Goodrich as Firefighter of the Year. A 13-Year veteran of the Fire Company, Ariel served for 10 years as the Fire Police Lieutenant. He is a quiet and unassuming person always at work behind the scenes of the Fire Company. He has helped to establish an administrative procedure to relieve some of the workload from the fire officers, so they can devote more time to their fire line responsibilities. He is always busy with fire reports so that the correct information is available to NYS and OFPC. He was instrumental in moving the fire reporting system and service awards records from paper to computer. As Lieutenant he was in charge of maintaining M38 and M39 to be sure they are ready to respond to emergencies, whether the County calls them/or Haz-Mat or the Urban Search and Rescue Team calls. Ariel established a checkout system for portable radios and the radio batteries to eliminate many charging and repair problems that effect fire ground operations. Through the years as Fire Police Lieutenant he took many training classes such as Highway Safety-Fire Scene operations, Haz-Mat WMD Response, Intersection Accident Termination and Coping with Change in the Fire Service. With this knowledge he established many pre-plans for the most efficient means of traffic control at various locations within the Elsmere Fire District. He continues to Chair the newsletter committee known as the Firehorn where he gathers and edits information of interest to be distributed quarterly. And for many years he has been recognized annually with the most drill attendance. A Past Chief who worked closely with Ariel was once quoted as saying he is "lucky to have a fast paced, aggressive and thorough person with private industry experience that knows how to cut through the BS and get things done."

Honored for Serving Our Nation This year's Firefighter of the Year came to us through the Albany County Legislature sponsored Recruitment and Retention committee's 24-hour hotline. With an interest in joining and taking classes, he instantly signed up as a social member 3 weeks after his high school graduation. Within the next 30 days, he spent numerous hours at the firehouse captivating everything possible. In the following month, on August 26, 1999, he became an active Elsmere firefighter. Over the next six months, he fully immersed himself in all aspects of firefighting. He took classes, participated in training drills, and responded to a majority of his company's fire calls. In February 2000, he took a seven-month military leave for Basic Training, but upon his return, he immediately returned as an active firefighter, participating fully in his department, and doing what he loves the most, helping the residents of his community. He never stopped learning and improving his skills. He enrolled in classes for Hazardous Material Operations, Hazardous material Technician, Decontamination, and the very enduring FAST team. Throughout all of his firematic service, he somehow found the time to become an EMT and participate with the Delmar Rescue Squad. He sets an example as a firefighter, EMT, and brother. These are just some of the reasons why his peers recognized him. His passion for service goes far beyond his firematic and community service. While in his first semester of College, he once again went on military leave, as he was ordered to Active Duty in the United States Military. He would spend the next 18 months serving his country. This Sergeant spent one year in Iraq, serving as an Engineering Technician Surveyor. He was stationed in Kirkuk at one of Sudan Hussein's private Air Force Bases, where he surveyed and built living quarters for the other units that were already there, and future troops that would eventually be stationed there. His job was to provide safe and livable quarters for the United States Military. During his Tour of Duty in Iraq, he was given a 2-week leave for R&R, and he returned home to reaffirm his passion. After completing his Tour, he returned to Bethlehem, where he decided to continue his education. Although he is currently away at college, he always takes every opportunity to respond to emergencies while he is on break. The firefighters in Bethlehem come from many backgrounds, but certainly share some common values and common goals: particularly when it comes to protecting our neighborhoods and keeping our residents safe. This individual goes beyond his community, in his service to our country, and I can't think of a more fitting venue to honor such an individual than this American Legion, where so many have served with the same conviction. This award is given to volunteer firefighters who not only perform admirably on the job but also are heavily involved in their respective communities, and in that regard, Pete Degnan was the logical choice. Pete Degnan has served the Elsmere Fire Company since 1999, and has already forged a successful career as a firefighter. People such as Pete are the future of our fire company. He has maturity, commitment, and integrity, and takes his job very seriously. On behalf of the members of the Elsmere Fire Company, it is with great honor that we nominate Peter Degnan as this year's firefighter of the year.

With the unexpected death of Chief Kevin M. Shea just over a year ago, a leader and friend was lost. The future of the Elsmere Fire Company was unknown, and questioned by all. Who would now lead us and continue the pro-active direction established by Kevin and foster the respect needed to be the new Chief? After holding a special election the decision was overwhelming decided by the membership that the new Chief would be Bill Webb. The experience Bill has in his professional career as a police officer. and also his familiarity with the civil office and fire line office of the Fire Company were beneficial. Having served a term as the Fire Company's Treasurer in 1987 he then began climbing the ladder of the Fire Line Offices beginning in 1989 as 3rd Lt. He served in that capacity until 1992 when he became the 1st Lt. of the Fire Company. Serving for three years in that capacity he then was elected to Captain where he also served for three years. Bill became the 2nd assistant Chief in 1997 and served that office for six years. In December of 2003 he was elected to 1st Assistant Chief. Less then three months later he was elected as the Chief of the Elsmere Fire Company A, Inc. As Chief Bill has lead the membership through one of it's darkest periods. He has the respect of the membership and is committed to the fire safety of residents of the Elsmere Fire District. The American Legion Blanchard Post 1040 honors Chief William H. Webb, Jr. as the 2005 firefighter of the year.

In 1992 the Elsmere Fire Company A Inc proudly nominated Kevin Shea as our choice for Fireman of the Year at the annual American Legion awards ceremony. Kevin received this honor for the many tireless hours spent as an officer in both the civil office and fire line office. Kevin was also commended for his success with the Elsmere Drill Team, which came to be known as the Blues Brothers. He was our Captain of the Drill Team and our leader on the fireground. Kevin went on to earn the coveted Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1996. To every member of the Elsmere Fire Company Kevin was a leader a mentor a teacher a brother and a friend. He was a friend to everyone. Kevin's friendship was binding, his loyalty unwavering and his understanding unconditional. These qualities represent those of a true friend, brother firefighter and respected leader.

We honor Chief Kevin Michael Shea as our choice for Fireman of the Year. Kevin was a role model for all of us and a man who lived life to its fullest. Kevin never put himself first and always made sure that everyone else was taken care of. He was something to everyone particularly his brother firefighters. He took great pride in us and we are proud to have had the opportunity to share our lives with him. He was generous to all of us, as is his family. We would like to thank you Kathy and Kelly for sharing him with us.

At this years annual awards ceremony of Fireman of the Year presented by the American Legion Post, Simon Van Ryn was honored as Elsmere's nominee. Simon began his service with the Delmar Fire Department where he served for 24 years. During this time he was elected to the office of Lt and Captain. He is currently in his 24th year at Elsmere. He was a Director of the Fire Co and a longstanding member of the Elsmere Wanderer's Drill Team competing in Central New York State and Long Island Firematic competition. Simon was just added to the ranks of Life Membership of Elsmere. He was acknowledged as Past President of Albany County Fireman's Association. A member of Hudson Mohawk, Nighthawks, and Hudson Valley. Simon born in South Holland, came to the United States in 1948. Simon and wife Trudy of 51 years have 5 children. Congratulations to Simon Van Ryn, Fireman of the Year!

Honored for his work at Ground Zero Having entered the department in April 1989, Frank is now in his 13th year of service. His history of dedicated service began in the civil officer line as a property clerk in 1992. Following this he continued through the ranks being elected vice president in 1995 and 1996, until becoming President in 1998. In the year ahead Frank's firematic desire drew him towards the company fire line office, and as he completed his term as President, immediately ran for and was elected 4th Fire Lieutenant in December of 1999. Since then he has continued to advance in rank and currently holds the position of 2nd Lieutenant.

The performance of this candidate can certainly be characterized as above average when considering the most important factors such as training and response to alarms. Frank's occupation and background being employed in a fast paced private sector technical environment, has benefited our department in making advancements for our training programs and computerization in many areas. Following suit is a long list of outside training courses Lt. Wickham has taken, from numerous NYS OFPC training courses to a variety of seminars offered to the fire service each year. Highlighted by this effort is the specialized training received as a member of the NYS Urban Search and Rescue team. This training as an active member of the technical team, has brought Frank to several disastrous events across the state including the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on September 11. The quality effort put forth as a volunteer in Elsmere, and the outreach of this trait helping the citizens throughout the state in their time of need, is what really characterizes a true volunteer, the volunteer firefighter.

In the the spring of 2000 the hamlet of Elsmere was thrust into the national spotlight when the banks of the Normanskill began to slide. The landslide claimed one commercial building and threatened several others along with residential properties and the main thoroughfare between Albany and Bethlehem. With the threat of approaching storms and further movement of the landslide, the Elsmere Fire Company along with Town, County, State, and City of Albany officials were called in, and a Command Center established.

Immediately, 30-year member and Chief of the Elsmere Fire Company, Ned Costigan began evaluating the life safety and rescue issues of the disaster area.

Evacuations of the area and civilian accountability efforts were also put into action. Fire risk was evaluated because of the potential for natural gas and electrical emergencies. Special dispatch assignments were planned bringing in other town fire and EMS agencies, and several informational meetings were held. Chief Costigan also developed a mutual aid plan with the City of Albany Fire Department realizing the loss of water and access to the lower portion of the Elsmere Fire District was a possibility. On site staging and command areas were established. The New York State Urban Search and Rescue Team was put on notice in the event of a sudden collapse trapping civilians and firefighters. New York State Department of Transportation was contacted and the old bridge in Normansville was inspected and made accessible for emergency use.

With the coordination between agencies, and the hundreds of hours of planning for a worst case scenario, Chief Costigan made sure that the residents and businesses of the Elsmere Fire District never received anything less than 100 percent of dedicated protection from the Elsmere Fire Company. It is because of this loyalty, dedication and attention to detail that the members of the Elsmere Fire Company “A” Incorporated, nominate Chief Edward "Ned" Costigan as Fireman of the Year.

The Elsmere Fire Department is very proud this year to present a monumental candidate for the 2000 American Legion Firefighter of the year award. Beginning his fire service career on January 30, 1930, he immediately directed his goals towards advancing in a leadership position. Three years after entering active membership he was elected as company property clerk. In 1934 he moved into the fire line office by being elected 3rd Lieutenant, and serving in that position for 2 years. From here the upward advancement continued serving in the position of 2nd Lieutenant in 1936, Captain from 1937 to 1941, and Chief of Department in 1942, 1946, 1947, 1948, 1950, and 1951. This 9-year period as Chief, was only interrupted by a term of active duty with the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. From here the dedication to service continued with the election to Fire District Commissioner in 1953, 1958,1963, 1977, 1980, and 1985. Achievements and honors acquired through the years include Life Membership granted in 1946, Albany County Volunteer Firemen’s Association “Fireman of The Year” in 1980 and numerous fire department awards marking years of service. A career fire protection specialist with the Mobil Oil Corporation, our candidate provided us with the best in fire extinguisher training and the handling of flammable liquids, and shared this expertise as a County Fire Instructor from 1951 to 1957. This year we celebrate his 70 years of service. Not many have achieved this plateau of volunteer service to a community, and not many will ever match it. The personal contribution made to our department and the community is unmeasurable. A model stature that exemplifies the modern day term "Recruitment & Retention", the 2000 Firefighter of the Year our most senior member Kenneth E. McNary. Congratulations on an honor well deserved!

Fire Police Officer John R. Devine was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1999

James Reagan was named Firefighter of rghe Year in 1998.

Richard I. Brown was named Firefighter of the Year in 1997.

Ralf K. Wiegand was named Firefighter of the Year in 1996.

Paul D. Millhausen was named Firefighter of the Year in 1995.

John T. Pregent, Jr. was named Firefighter of the Year in 1994.

Henry Sterling was named Firefighter of the Year in 1993.

Kevin M. Shea was named Firefighter of the Year in 1992.

Oliver "Ollie" Palmer was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1991.

Robert N. Irish was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1989.

Peter G. Merrill was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1989.

Paul D. Millhausen was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1989.

Irving "Pop" Leonard was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1988.

Peter G. Merrill was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1987.

Past Chief Anthony J. Morrell was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1986.

Past Chief George M. Kaufman was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1985.

Henry J. Turner was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1984.

Past Chief Kenneth E. McNary was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1981.

Past Chief Frederick C. Webster was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1974.