State Assemblywoman Gina L. Sillitti (D-Port Washington) announced that she sponsored a resolution, which was adopted by the state Assembly, to commend Emma Nadel as the first woman to serve as captain of Flower Hill Hose Company No. 1 in the Port Washington Fire Department (K.821).

“I’m honored to have carried and helped adopt the Assembly resolution commending Captain Emma Nadel who is not only an exceptional public servant but a wonderful example of fearless determination and hard work,” said Sillitti. “She followed in the footsteps of her late father, Firefighter James Nadel, by joining the Port Washington Fire Department at 17 and has swiftly rose through the ranks over seven years and is more than worthy of this distinction.”

Born and raised in Port Washington, Nadel has held every line officer position since joining the Flower Hill Hose Company No. 1 of the Port Washington Fire Department.

The Port Washington Fire Department is one of the largest volunteer fire departments in New York State, serving as first responders for an 11-square mile area.

The Flower Hill Hose Company was established in 1905 after the arrival of the Long Island Rail Road and is located on Haven Avenue in Port Washington.

Nadel credits her father’s service and sacrifice as a 9/11 first responder for inspiring her to seek this leadership role. James Nadel worked double shifts and slept at Ground Zero for six months, and tragically passed away from cancer-related to his service.

“In the spirit of International Firefighters’ Day on May 4, a time to recognize and honor the heroic sacrifices firefighters have to make to ensure that our communities are safe, I’m proud the New York State Assembly recognizes and congratulates Captain Emma Nadel on making history and inspiring all those girls and women to dream big, work hard and never give up,” said Sillitti.