Photos: Montauk Fire Department Rings in New Year With Swearing In Ceremony

MONTAUK, NY — The Montauk Fire Department rang in the New Year with a swearing in of line officers during a ceremony Sunday.

"On behalf of the Officers, men and women of the Montauk Fire Department, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and prosperous New Year. I am extremely proud to be the Chief of this fine organization, and look forward to providing you, our citizens, with reliable, dependable and professional fire and EMS services in 2017," said 2017 Montauk Fire Department Chief Vincent Franzone.

"As I take over the reins from Chief Joseph Lenahan, I feel an especially deep pride, since I am the son of Lawrence Franzone, who also served as Chief of the Montauk Fire Department."

The Franzones, he said, join the Joyces, Grencis, Pitts and Prados as families where fathers and sons have both served as Chiefs of the MFD.

Franzone said he would also like to thank his First Assistant Chief David Ryan, Second Assistant Chief Mitchell “Mickey” Valcich, and all of the Members of the Montauk Fire Department "for their incredible support. I look forward to working with each and every one of you, in the spirit of cooperation for the betterment of Montauk. I would particularly like to thank our former Chief Joseph Lenahan. His leadership and guidance have been invaluable in preparing me for my position as Chief."

He added, "Thank you again for supporting the Montauk Fire Department. Have a safe and healthy winter."

Photos by Richard Lewin Professional Photography, soniboy@aol.com.