Glen Cove is a wonderful community to live in. We are blessed to have dedicated first responders and city workers.
Very few communities have their own police force, as we do. Glen Cove is ranked as the fourth-safest city in New York. The ladies and gentlemen of the GCPD are members of our community as well. Like the rest of us, many of them live and work here, raising their families in Glen Cove. In addition to their law enforcement duties, they run programs in the local schools and work with our students.
Our Fire Department consists entirely of volunteers. When a fire call goes out, these men and women leave their homes and families to save others without thought of what they may be walking into. They are selfless and courageous.
Glen Cove’s Emergency Medical Service is a combination of paid EMTs and volunteers. They are skilled at what they do, and respond with precision and compassion to every call.
Our Harbor Patrol works on the local waters, ensuring safety for all those out on the water. They respond to emergencies at all hours of the day and night.
The Glen Cove Auxiliary Police work diligently in capacities that are so necessary, directing traffic, crossing schoolchildren, working at city special events and also keeping us safe.
One morning in May, there was a terrible fire in an apartment building. As mayor, I, along with my deputy mayor, go to fires where people are displaced from their homes.
On this particular morning, we arrived at 3:30 to see many of our first responders all working together. It is a profound sight to see the heroism and respect they have for one another.
When we got to the call, we saw that the police were already on the scene. They entered the building, and moments later the firemen arrived. People were taken from the second floor safely by the police, and everyone got out of the building.
On the ground, auxiliary officers were closing the road, and EMS experts were there, checking the other first responders’ vitals and treating police and firefighters for smoke inhalation. The quiet manner in which the EMTs did their job was extraordinary. Mutual respect was evident. Our first responders all worked seamlessly together, performing their tasks in tandem with one another.
In a community such as Glen Cove, it is the spirit of heroism that elevates us all. Those first responders know that their service extends far beyond their official duties. They are our neighbors, our friends and our protectors.
Many serve across disciplines — police officers who are also volunteer firefighters, EMTs who also serve as police officers.
As we celebrate Independence Day, we should recognize that our first responders embody the values that make America great: service before self and courage in the face of danger.
The coordination I witnessed that May morning represents the Glen Cove way. When a crisis strikes, we respond together. Police, Fire, EMS, auxiliary officers and city leadership work as one unified team.
This cooperation extends beyond emergencies. Our first responders take part in community activities and safety programs that form bonds with residents.
As your mayor, I witness their commitment every day. That’s why I have committed to vehicle and equipment upgrades for all of our first responders, to make sure they have the resources they need for their safety and the safety of our residents.
On this Fourth of July weekend, as we celebrate the nation’s independence with our children’s bike parade, barbecues and fireworks, let’s also celebrate the men and women who keep us safe while we enjoy our freedoms. When you see a Glen Cove police officer, firefighter, EMT or auxiliary officer, please take a moment to thank them. Their sacrifice and service make our celebrations possible.
Glen Cove’s strength lies in our people, especially those who choose to serve others. Our first responders remind us that heroism is found in ordinary people doing extraordinary things for their neighbors.
Happy Fourth of July, Glen Cove. Thank you to all who serve, and thank you to the families who support them in their noble calling.
Pamela Panzenbeck is the mayor of Glen Cove.
