Katonah Fire Department held its annual inspection dinner Friday night at fire headquarters. Following a review of assembled members in uniform and an inspection of apparatus on the engine room floor, attending fire department representatives and other dignitaries went upstairs for a dinner catered by the Purdys-based Farmer and the Fish Restaurant. The 2018 Firefighter of the Year Award was given to Captain Alex Whalen, and various membership and apparatus awards were also distributed. The annual inspection is a tradition among volunteer fire departments. Each participating fire department invites its neighbors to inspect apparatus, members in dress uniform, and fire headquarters, and then join in a sit-down dinner where recognition is given to various members for their service to the department. The annual inspection is a great way for departments to get together in a social setting to re-new bonds of friendship and cooperation.
Firefighter Charlie Noe is presented with his 45-year certificate by First Assistant Chief Mike Griffiths.
Representatives of visiting departments inspect KFD's apparatus.
Tanker Company Captain Joe Lombardo accepts his top responder award from (from left) Chief Jose Corsino, Second Assistant Chief Matt Whalen, First Assistant Chief Mike Griffiths, and, at right, Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman Hank Bergson.
Driver-Operator Emeritus Chris Stanton accepts a 35-year certificate from the Chiefs.
Larry Dwyer, Jr., accepts a 55-year certificate from the Chiefs.
70-year member Warren Shilling receives well-deserved recognition from the Inspection Dinner Attendees.
2018's Firefighter of the Year Award went to Captain Alex Whalen. He's seen here with the Chiefs and, at right, with his father, Ex-Chief and Commissioner Bruce Whalen.
