Beck takes reigns of Fire Department

See more photos from the installation dinner here.

John Beck Jr. has devoted nearly three decades of his life to the Valley Stream Fire Department, and he’s only 41 years old. Last month, he achieved a long-time dream when he became the department’s new chief.

Beck, who was raised in Valley Stream and graduated from South High School, joined the Junior Fire Department in 1984. He was inspired by his father, John Sr., who was a member of Engine Company No. 2 on Brooklyn Avenue. Beck loved the lights, the sirens and the big red trucks. When he turned 18, he became a full member of the department, joining the same company.

By 1994, he became lieutenant of the company and was named captain the following year, two positions he would later hold again. To become chief of the department, a member has to have previously been a captain.

He is a firefighter by day and night, literally. Beck is a member of the New York City Fire Department with Ladder Company No. 165 in St. Albans, Queens. He said it is common for city firefighters from Long Island to volunteer with their local fire department but rare for them to become chief. In Valley Stream’s history, there have been 94 fire chiefs but only three, including Beck, have been professional firefighters.

Beck officially took over as chief of the department shortly after his election in early April, but was sworn in with a bit more fanfare at the Fire Department’s installation dinner last Saturday night at Chateau Briand in Carle Place. About 450 people attended the event.

Charles Brocher moved up to first assistant chief, and Jimmy Ervolino became second assistant chief. Beck and Ervolino actually ran against each other for second assistant chief four years ago in a three-way race that Beck won. However, Beck said the two are good friends and will work well together in the chief’s office. “Jimmy’s a good guy,” Beck said. “He’s a hard worker. Both of my assistants are.”

As chief, Beck said he will focus on providing extensive training for firefighters. “I’m big on training,” he said. “Training is key. Without it, you’re not going to be good at what you do.”