Linden's First African American Lieutenant On The Fire Department

Press release from City of Linden:

July 29, 2020

For the first time in its 104-year history, the Linden Fire Department has an African American in their ranks of Officers. Firefighter Anthony Holland was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on Wednesday July 29, 2020 during an outdoor promotional ceremony that was held at Linden Fire Headquarters. Firefighter Holland is a seven-year veteran of the department and ranked an impressive #5 on the State of New Jersey Civil Service Commission list of Fire Lieutenant’s for the City of Linden. Linden Fire Chief William Hasko Jr. had nothing but praise when he spoke about Holland at the ceremony today. “I’m extremely proud of Firefighter Holland and could not think of a better person to have the honor of being the first African American Officer in the Linden Fire Department. Anthony has paved the way and set the bar for those wanting to follow in his footsteps”, said Chief Hasko. In addition to Holland’s promotion, Firefighter Steven Cuco was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and Lieutenant Michael Cassidy was promoted to the rank of Captain. The promotions are the result of the recent retirements in the Linden Fire Department. Mayor Derek Armstead said, “I am very happy with the direction our city is moving in and am confident that Anthony will do an excellent job in his new position. I would also like to congratulate Captain Michael Cassidy and Lieutenant Steven Cuco on their promotions.”

This press release was produced by City of Linden. The views expressed here are the author's own.