Vigilant Fire Company Makes History by Electing First EMS Chief

Image via Vigilant Fire Company Website

The Great Neck Vigilant Engine & Hook & Ladder Company recently elected the first EMS Chief in Nassau County history.

The historic election held on Jan. 4 appointed Steven Blocker to the position. Blocker is a paramedic and firefighter who has held multiple EMS roles throughout his career. He has received numerous awards while serving the community as a member of the Vigilant Fire Company.

“I am thrilled that the membership chose me to be the first ever EMS Assistant Chief,” Blocker said. “This change proves our level of commitment to the residents of Great Neck and I look forward to working with the members to improve both response and training.”

Blocker is the first EMS Chief elected who is not part of a Volunteer Ambulance Corp.

“This is not the first time that the Vigilant’s have been at the forefront in making change in Nassau County and I am proud of Chief Blocker and excited to work with him,” Chief of Department Joshua Forst said.

Also appointed at the meeting:

• Steven Shapiro, a paramedic, was re-elected to the role of EMS Captain.
• Tamir Cohen, an Emergency Medical Technician, was elected as EMS First Lieutenant.
• Daniel Behnam, an Emergency Medical Technician, was elected as EMS Second Lieutenant.

In the above photo, ex-Chief and Trustee Robert Lincoln is seen administering the oath of office to First Assistant EMS Chief Block, Captain Shapiro, First Lieutenant Cohen and Second Lieutenant Behnam.