By NANCY HILER
The North Bellmore department provides fire protection for parts of North Merrick. A four-day celebration, which included the Nassau County Firefighters Parade, a fire drill competition and a carnival for children of all ages, marked the anniversary.
The parade featured firefighters, fire trucks and fire department marching bands from across Long Island. It kicked off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, beginning at Jerusalem and Oakfield avenues.
To further commemorate their anniversary, North Bellmore's bravest also hosted this year's Nassau County Drill, a tournament that included dozens of contests in which
35 Nassau County fire departments tested their strength and speed in old-fashioned and motorized competitions. Hundreds of firefighters competed against the
clock and one another in climbing and running events while using various pieces of fire equipment. Among these were hose, ladder and bucket brigade contests. The annual event was held at the Four-Towns Firemen's Training Center in Merrick.
