Thursday, October 1, 2026
Former Freeport Fire Chief Lester Fieldsa, a pioneering figure in emergency medical services and a deeply respected member of the department, is being remembered for more than 60 years of unwavering dedication to the community.
Fieldsa, who joined the Freeport Fire Department on April 12, 1966, was among the earliest emergency medical technicians in Nassau County, completing certification training in the early 1970s. He later became one of the department’s most senior firefighters to earn paramedic credentials. Over the course of his service, he received numerous life-saving awards and played a central role in the advancement of EMS operations both locally and countywide.
His funeral was held on Nov. 19 at the firehouse on Pine Street, where generations of firefighters gathered to honor his life and legacy.
Fire Department Executive Director Ray Maguire, who had known Fieldsa since childhood, reflected on the chief’s influence.
"Growing up in the Freeport Fire Department, He was an advisor to the junior fire department,” Maguire said. “When computers were introduced to the Freeport Fire Department, Chief Fieldsa was the one who stepped up to teach all of us how to use this new technology. His example of dedication and commitment is something we all admired and try to emulate."
Fieldsa held numerous leadership positions throughout his tenure. He served three terms as captain of Emergency Rescue Company No. 9 — in 1971–72, 1988–89 and 1997–98 — and was elected Assistant Chief in April 1981. He later led the department as Chief of Department from 1984 to 1985. Even at age 92, he continued to report to the firehouse and was actively serving as treasurer of Emergency Rescue Co. No. 9.
Mayor Robert T. Kennedy noted Fieldsa’s devotion to both his community and his country. "Chief Fieldsa served our Country as a veteran of the US Navy. He then went on to serve as a dedicated volunteer firefighter for over 60 years. He will be sorely missed."
Fieldsa’s legacy endures in the generations of firefighters and emergency responders he trained, mentored and inspired.
