Brooks becomes Lynbrook's 100th fire chief

Michael Brooks became the 100th chief of the Lynbrook Fire Department on April 21, taking the reigns from outgoing Chief Nick Pearsall.

Brooks, who is a member of Hose Company 1, started his career in the LFD when he joined the Lynbrook Junior Fire Department in 1995 at age 13. He served as captain of the juniors from 1999 to 2000. In June 2000, he joined Hose Company 1 at age 18. Over the years, he held many positions, including two terms as captain of Hose Company. He has been an elected assistant fire chief for the past three years, and was elected chief of the department on April 9.

Brooks comes from a family that has been involved in the volunteer fire services for years. His grandfather, Walter Brooks, is also a member of Hose Company and served as chief in 1972, while his uncle, Wally, was also a captain of Hose Company. His mother, Mary Clare, is a member of the Hose Company’s Ladies Auxiliary, of which his wife, Elizabeth, is president. The couple has two daughters, Allison and Sophia, and Brooks has also been an employee of the village’s Department of Public Works for 16 years.

Mayor Alan Beach swore Brooks into his position along with three assistant chiefs outside of Lynbrook Fire Headquarters on Wright Avenue. The assistants include First Assistant Chief John Donald, of Truck Company, Second Assistant Chief Chris Kelly, of Engine Company, and Third Assistant Chief Danny Ambrosio, of Vulcan Company. Their terms are one year.

Courtesy LFD; compiled by Mike Smollins.