The Oceanside Fire Department installed its 2026 chiefs and honored several longtime members during its annual installation dinner Jan. 31 at the The Inn at Fox Hollow Hotel.
Chief of Department Sean Lynch was sworn in alongside First Assistant Chief Kevin Klein, Second Assistant Chief Mark Sparberg and Third Assistant Chief William Sitzman. In addition to the department’s four chiefs, five captains representing Oceanside’s five firehouses, along with lieutenants and other officers, took the oath of office.
The annual ceremony, a tradition that dates back at least 75 years, formally marks the transition of leadership for the volunteer department. Fire commissioners conducted an inspection before officers were sworn in, and the evening concluded with a celebration attended by members, their families, local elected officials and neighboring fire chiefs.
“This is a long-standing tradition for the department,” First Assistant Chief Kevin Klein said. “It’s a night to acknowledge the leadership for the coming year, but also to thank our members and their families for the sacrifices they make.”
This year’s event also highlighted an extraordinary milestone: five members were recognized for 50 years of service. Honored were Honorary Captain James Calderone, Ex-Captain Arthur Seaman, Ex-Captain Peter Chiovitt, former Chief Fred Robinson and Ex-Captain James Jesionkowski. Two additional members were recognized for 25 years of service.
Klein said it is increasingly rare for volunteer firefighters to reach such milestones, citing the financial pressures and time demands facing Long Island families. Having five members reach the 50-year mark in the same year is “almost unheard of,” he said.
The installation dinner serves not only as a ceremonial swearing-in but also as an opportunity for outreach and recruitment. The department maintains an active presence in the community beyond emergency response, participating in school events, holiday tree and menorah lightings, food and gift deliveries to families in need and fire prevention education programs.
“We want the community to know we’re their neighbors,” Klein said. “Yes, when you call 911, we’re coming. But we’re also the people down the block who care about this town.”
Klein emphasized that public events like the installation dinner help residents put faces to the names of the chiefs and officers responsible for their local firehouses. They also provide visibility that can encourage new volunteers to join the ranks.
Each incoming chief outlines goals and priorities for the year during the ceremony, setting the tone for the department’s direction. Leaders also take time to recognize the families of volunteers, acknowledging the missed dinners, holidays and sporting events that often accompany emergency calls and leadership responsibilities.
“We can’t do this without the support of our loved ones,” Klein said. “Their sacrifice is part of our service.”
As the 2026 leadership team begins its term, Klein said the department remains focused on community engagement, recruitment and maintaining the tradition of volunteer service that has defined Oceanside for generations.
