Gordon Heights Fire Department Taps 1st Female Chief

GORDON HEIGHTS, NY — Gordon Heights fire officials have chosen Moonee Rivers to lead the department as the first female fire chief in its history.

In an interview with Newsday, Rivers, 36, said that she wants to be a mentor at the department, which is the first established by black firefighters, as others members were for her and focus on increasing membership and educating the community.

"The world that we live in has shown us great examples of firsts, in particular for people of color," she told the outlet. "This department was the first at being it."

Fire Commissioner Erton Rudder, a former chief himself, said Rivers' 14 years experience as a volunteer has prepared her to be the new chief of the department, Newsday reported.

"There’s been several chiefs throughout the history of this fire department that have gone before her and they’re looking down right now," Rudder told the outlet. "They’re beaming with pride because of the sweat equity they had invested in this fire department and this community."

Rivers was recently recognized for the accomplishment by Suffolk County Legis. Dominick Thorne, a former firefighters and Emergecy Medical Technician who serves as vice chair of the Legislature's Fire and Rescue Committee.

“She will continue her family’s proud tradition of serving the Gordon Heights Fire Department," Thorne said.

To read more about Rivers in Newsday, click here.