Over 130 people attended Katonah Fire Department's Annual Inspection held Friday, October 23 at KFD Headquarters. The inspection allows neighboring fire departments and town officials to walk through the firehouse and look at the firehouse and apparatus. Additionally, the guests inspect a lineup of fire department members. A dinner follows the inspection.
This year, for the first time, the Westchester County Parade Judges' Association inspected Katonah's apparatus for points, with awards given out for first, second and third best apparatus. Top honors went to Rescue 17. Second place went to Ladder 39. Third place went to Engine 115.
During the dinner portion of the program, KFD's top 10 responders between October, 2014 and October, 2015 were honored. Additionally, firefighter Richard Davies was presented with a 50-year badge, while Firefighter Peter Smith was presented with a 25-year badge. The Chiefs' Firefighter of the Year plaque went to Firefighter Zak Bauer, while his father, Ex-Chief Paul Bauer, received the Michael J. Vuotto Award from the Board of Fire Commissioners. The Chiefs' Junior Firefighter of the Year Award went to Robert DeAlto.
Ex-Chief Paul Bauer, recipient of the Michael J. Vuotto Award, with Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman Henry Bergson
and Chief Dean Pappas. Photo by Gabe Palacio
Firefighter Richard Davies accepts his 50-year badge from Chief Dean Pappas, while Second Assistant Chief Michael Griffiths looks on. Photo by Gabe Palacio.
Firefighter Peter Smith, with nephew and member Peter J. Smith, accepts his 25-year badge from the chiefs. Photo by Gabe Palacio.
KFD's line officers are recognized for their service during the year. From left, David Corsino, Richard Palmerini, Chip Fowler, Kate Hallex, David Kane, John Whalen, Michael Lehrer and Scott Whalen. Photo by Gabe Palacio.
Ex-Chiefs are presented with personalized helmet fronts as a token of appreciation for their years of service and for the guidance they provide. From left, Bennet Schuberg, James Arena, Jr., Paul Bauer, James McHugh, Paul Gallagher, Greg Repp, Dave Corsino and Hank Bergson. Photo by Gabe Palacio
Firefighter of the Year Zak Bauer with (from left) Second Assistant Chief Michael Griffiths and Chief Dean Pappas. Photo by Gabe Palacio
The chiefs present Robert DeAlto with the Junior Firefighter of the Year Award. Photo by Gabe Palacio
Captain John Whalen accepts a $75 gift card for Rescue 17, which was judged best overall among Katonah FD apparatus by the Westchester County Parade Judges. Photo by Gabe Palacio
