East Meadow Fire Department

EMFD installs its 70th new chief: James Walsh

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In another chapter in the history of the East Meadow Volunteer Fire Department,

James Walsh, of Hook & Ladder Company #1, proudly became the 70th Chief of the Department in our rich 90-year history.

Normally a day of honor set aside for such outstanding achievement in our organization, 2020 will be remembered for the Covid-19 pandemic, and everything our organization has endured in working to prepare for, and protect our community.

But on this night, EMFD’s Department Election Committee, donning masks, gloves, and practicing social distance rules, worked to complete the election process.

A short time after the vote counting was completed, a brief ceremony attended only by the election committee, the chiefs and commissioners, would be conducted.

In compliance with our “no group gathering” policy, it would instead be live streamed via Zoom internet video technology for all members, and their families to enjoy at home.

The time had come to mark the new leadership of the East Meadow Fire Department. The ceremony, led by Commissioner James Surless, is a tradition, one of many, within the organization for as long as those can remember. Only this year, on the smallest of scales.

With words of gratitude, Commissioner Surless spoke from his heart about the dedication of our organization, and the work of our leaders, particularly our outgoing Chief Eric W. Becker.

Eric, a leader on every level, had just completed his third four-year term in the chief's office for an unprecedented 12 years as a Commanding Chief Officer. A feat that will likely never be duplicated.

In his final year, it was Chief Becker leading us through the toughest of times, first, with several dear senior members passing away in the year. Then the pandemic. Chief Becker and his assist Chiefs hit the ground running, setting policy after policy to address the emergency needs of our residents while equally working to maintain the safety and health of our emergency responders.

Together, with the Board of Fire Commissioners, the Chiefs worked to secure additional stock of critical protective EMS equipment while keeping the membership well informed.

So much planning done, with so much more on the table.. For nearly two months prior to the election night, Chiefs were already involving our newest candidate for Third Assistant Chief Philip Fertitta into meetings to ensure a seamless transition.

With no further delay, one by one, Asst Chiefs Paul Kosiba (1st Asst), Peter Cheswick (2nd Asst), and Philip Fertitta (3rd Asst), were sworn in by Commissioner James Surless, and Commissioner William Neill.

But now, the time had come . . . The moment many firefighters dream of, as long time friend and Fire Commissioner John J. Priest approached the podium calling up newly elected Chief James Walsh.

With heartfelt words, Commissioner Priest spoke of the man before him and their friendship of more than 30 years. With his right hand raised, Chief Walsh repeated the words of Commissioner Priest in reciting the oath of office to EMFD’s highest level of command.

To his surprise, as he lowered his hand, lights flashed, and sirens blared outside fire headquarters. Across the street EMFD’s bravest, along with their fire apparatus, separated by distance, let their support be known. With the live stream video technology, there was no need for a queue…

Looking out the second floor window of Fire Headquarters, waving to the firefighters Chief Walsh, now saw his family and friends holding signs of support directly below.

An emotional moment as he waved his approval from a distance. A time in EMFD history where our department will refuse to be denied the show of respect and support a leader of this magnitude deserves.

A proud moment for James, son of the late Ex Captain James Walsh who gave more than 30 years of service in Hook & Ladder Co # 1 before his untimely passing.

A proud moment for the members of Hook & Ladder Co # 1 as they announced their 90th year of service to our community on April 3rd, now with one of their own as Chief of Department.

In his first action as Chief of Department, Chief Walsh announced the new command to his 30 plus Company line and staff officers that will fill out his administration.

With the new 2020-2021 leadership now in place, we would like to take this time to congratulate all new officers of the East Meadow Fire Department.

All the very best for a safe and successful year. Rest assured this department is ready to protect and serve as always because of you.

We have all the confidence in the world that each of you will perform your duty to the best of your ability, and with the help of our community in strictly following mandated precautions, we will put this Pandemic behind us sooner than later.

John J. O'Brien is an active Ex Chief of the East Meadow Fire Department. He is the District Supervisor of the Jericho Fire District and has over 40 years of Dispatch and Supervisory experience.