On behalf of the officers and members of the New Hyde Park Fire Department, I would like to thank Rich Tedesco for the regular coverage that our organization receives in the Herald Courier.  Highlighting the efforts and activities of our members helps keep our department connected with the public and contributes to the strong sense of morale that an organization such as ours requires to keep its volunteers motivated and active.

I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize the outstanding and heroic efforts of three individuals that responded to the basement fire on Sixth Avenue in February of 2011 at which two New Hyde Park firefighters were seriously injured.  Ex-Chief Reid Sakowich, Lt. Joseph Papa and former member and Ex-Chief Joseph Connors were able to fight the smoke, heat and steam in the basement stairwell that day to rescue a downed New Hyde Park firefighter.  

Their heroic efforts to reach the basement coupled with their knowledge and experience, without question, contributed directly to the successful rescue of our injured member.  While these men were not selected to receive Nassau County Firematic Awards for their valor, it is the opinion of the undersigned that their efforts were pivotal in achieving a successful outcome that day.

Again, thank for your continued coverage of our department and many thanks to our residents, business owners and civic organizations for their support of our dedicated volunteer firefighters and EMTs.

Robert Von Werne

Chief of Department