Town of Hempstead Honors Local Fire Fighters for Their Heroism and Service

Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino honored 55 first responders from across the township for their outstanding service during the Town of Hempstead’s 2016 Firematic Awards ceremony. The first responders represented 14 fire departments from throughout the Town of Hempstead during a ceremony held at the Nathan L. H. Bennett Pavilion at Hempstead Town Hall.

Among the honorees were Lakeview Fire Department Ex-Chief Frederick Senti III; East Rockaway Fire Department members Lieutenant James Monaco, firefighter Andrew Ochtera and Ex-Chief Edward Reicherter; and Lynbrook Fire Department members Chief John Chavatte, Lieutenant James DiGiambattisa, Captain Cory Hirsch and 3rd Deputy Chief Nicholas Pearsall and Police Medic Larry Loiselle of the NCPD EMS.

“Tonight, we honor some of the local heroes who put their lives on the line to serve their communities,” said Santino. “I am proud to present Hempstead Town’s bravest with our Firematic Award in recognition of their heroic and selfless acts.”

The East Rockaway team of first responders saved the life of a person who was trapped in a burning Ocean Avenue apartment. The Lynbrook team rescued a woman in cardiac arrest on Sunrise Highway in Lynbrook.

Senti was honored for his service to the department. He followed in the footsteps of his father, grandfather and sister, serving as chief for the Lakeview Fire Department. He has served for more than a decade and was an important leader during the department’s response to Hurricane Sandy.

“It is humbling to recognize these first responders for their bravery, heroism, dedication and commitment in serving and protecting this great township,” Santino said. “Thanks to their selflessness and dedication, Hempstead Town remains a safe community in which to live, work and raise a family.”

Photos: Town of Hempstead