New York J 1933: Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Yaphank Fire Department

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J01933 Summary:

BILL NOJ01933 

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SAME ASNo Same As

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SPONSORMURRAY

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COSPNSR

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MLTSPNSR

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Go to top J01933 Actions:

BILL NOJ01933 

&nbsp

04/22/2026REFERRED TO FINANCE

04/28/2026REPORTED TO CALENDAR FOR CONSIDERATION

04/28/2026ADOPTED

Go to topJ01933 Committee&nbspVotes:

Go to topJ01933 Floor&nbspVotes:

There are no Assembly votes for this bill in this legislative session.

Go to topJ01933 Text:

Senate Resolution No. 1933

BY: Senator MURRAY

 COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the Yaphank
 Fire Department

 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those organizations which have demonstrated a sustained commitment
to the safety, well-being, and vitality of their communities; and

 WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Yaphank Fire Department, to be
celebrated in 2026; and

 WHEREAS, The Yaphank Fire Department, officially organized on
September 14, 1926, stands as the first fire department established to
serve its local communities, marking the beginning of a proud tradition
of volunteerism and public service in the hamlets of Yaphank, Shirley,
and Medford within the Town of Brookhaven; and

 WHEREAS, For a century, the Yaphank Fire Department has provided
essential fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to more than
6,000 residents across an area exceeding 14 square miles, maintaining a
steadfast commitment to 24-hour rapid response coverage; and

 WHEREAS, Today, the department is comprised of approximately 110
dedicated volunteer members and paid EMS responders, all of whom have
pledged to uphold its mission to protect lives and property with
professionalism, courage, and compassion; and

 WHEREAS, The early leadership of the department was established
through the election of its first Fire Commission on June 23, 1927,
under the chairmanship of Justice of the Peace Frederick P. Marchant,
alongside commissioners James Scott, John Davis Sr., Gustave Neuss, and
P.M. Ayvad, laying the foundation for generations of exemplary service;
and

 WHEREAS, Since its inception, the department has been guided by 35
Chiefs, whose leadership has shaped its growth and resilience, beginning
with Albert Davis, James Coombs, and Heywood Shannon in 1926, and
including long-serving and dedicated leaders such as Edward N. Davis,
who served from 1927 to 1943; and

 WHEREAS, The Yaphank Fire Department's history reflects a proud
tradition of family and community involvement, with multiple generations
of families serving, including father-and-son Chiefs and siblings who
have each contributed to its legacy of leadership and service; and

 WHEREAS, From its humble beginnings in an octagonal former
schoolhouse built in 1854 and repurposed as its first firehouse, to the
construction and expansion of modern facilities, the Yaphank Fire
Department has continually evolved to meet the growing needs of its
community; and

 WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the department has demonstrated
remarkable adaptability and innovation, from early firefighting
apparatus such as the Brockway chemical truck to pioneering the use of
advanced rescue equipment including the "Jaws of Life," and specialized
vehicles for woodland firefighting; and

 WHEREAS, The Yaphank Department has responded to countless
emergencies, including devastating fires, aircraft accidents, major
highway incidents, and widespread brush fires, often working in
coordination with neighboring departments to protect life and property
across Suffolk County; and

 WHEREAS, During times of national hardship, including World War II,
members of the department answered the call to serve their country,
while the community came together to ensure continued local protection,
even allowing younger residents to step forward in support roles; and

 WHEREAS, The Yaphank Fire Department has long been supported by
strong community engagement, including the establishment of its Ladies
Auxiliary in 1951, whose members provided vital support to firefighters
and continue to play an active role in Department events and traditions
today; and

 WHEREAS, The department has fostered a deep sense of community
through events such as its annual Memorial Day