Lynbrook Resident Honored for His Heroism and Dedication to the Community

With a band of brass and schuhplattlers galore, Town of Hempstead Supervisor Anthony J. Santino kicked off the Town of Hempstead’s first ever German American Celebration. The event was dedicated to recognizing exceptional German American residents who have made a positive difference in their communities while embracing and promoting German heritage and culture. Among the honorees was John Louthan of Lynbrook, a firefighter and vice president of the FDNY Steuben Association

“As the largest township in America, Hempstead Town boasts quite a diverse population,” said Santino. “We’re taking the opportunity to celebrate many unique cultures of our community. German heritage has been apparent on Long Island for many generations; as such we wanted to honor some truly outstanding German Americans.”

Working with Engine Company 5 in Manhattan since 2004, Louthan has responded to countless dangerous fires and other emergencies. Fearless in his approach to rescuing victims and guided by an abiding desire to help others, he is well respected by his colleagues in fire service.
Embracing his German culture in a city that celebrates cultural diversity, Louthan reached out to the FDNY Steuben Association and became involved with the charitable arm of the association. He became chairman of the Steuben Scholarship Golf Outing, where he helped raise money for students going into high school and college. In recognition for his work, Louthan has been named Vice President of the FDNY Steuben Association.

This year’s honorees include: Geraldine Brand of Floral Park, a dedicated Steuben Day Parade volunteer and insurance fraud investigator; Steve Haller of East Meadow, a local businessman with a heart of gold; Walt Itgen, proprietor of the famous Itgen’s Ice Cream Parlour in Valley Stream; Erik Mahler, Co-President of the Baldwin Chamber of Commerce and community leader; and Alex and Gerhard Schmitt, a married couple from Roosevelt that embody the American dream with their furniture building business.

Photo: Town of Hempstead