Riverside and Orangetown Fire Companies Keep Traditions Alive

Long time friends, Tarrytown's Riverside Hose Company and South Nyack Fire Department's Orangetown Fire Company, came together on a gorgeous Sunday to celebrate their lasting friendship with a friendly game of softball at Losee Field in Tarrytown.

The two volunteer departments have been friends for over sixty years – even before the Tappan Zee Bridge was built. They keep their friendship alive by playing softball and hockey games together and attending events throughout the years where families and friends are able to reunite and cheer on their local fire departments.

"The games allow the two departments to talk about old memories and rekindle friendships", said Riverside Hose Chief Patrick Derivan Sr. 

An ex-Chief of the Nyack Fire Department agreed about the long-standing history between the companies, "When I was a young boy, I remember my dad bringing my family and I to games in Tarrytown and now years later, I am bringing my family here."

Tom O'Shea, a member of the Orangetown Fire Company with the Nyack Fire Department said the bonds between the companies have also been strengthened through their firefighting work on the occassions when the companies work in tandem.

"We have been there for them, and they have been there for us," he said. "We are trying to create a personal bond for all the volunteers so everyone has a chance to get to know each other."

Many members of both volunteer companies began their careers protecting local citizens in high school and have continued their service in other public sector areas such as law enforcement and municipal work.

This year, Nyack won the game 14-12, and the two departments went back from rivals to friends enjoying cook-out at Riverside Hose Company's Franklin Street fire house. 

"It does not matter who wins or loses, we are all friends after the game ends," Derivan said.