By Public Information Officer Christopher R. Martin
Brockport Fire Department
The Brockport Volunteer Firefighter’s Association held its 192nd Anniversary Banquet on April 27, 2024, at Braemar Country Club in Brockport, N.Y.
Brockport firefighters gathered with family and friends, elected officials, and members of the Brockport American Legion Post 379 to celebrate the anniversary of the department. Association officers also presented their annual Service Awards for years of service, and their newly instituted awards for life saving and heroism. Over 130 people were in attendance.
The following members were recognized for their 50-plus years of service to the community and department: Mabel Koss (75 years), A. Gary Zimmer (60 years), Richard Gillespie, Charles Sanford, Judith Pratt, Charlene Whipple, and James Sauberan (55 years), and Michael Koss (50 years).
The President’s Award was presented to two individuals who stood out among others in supporting the mission of the Brockport Volunteer Firefighter’s Association – Scott Smith and Allan Hoy.
The Heroism Awards spanned the two full years prior to the banquet (2022-2023). Chief Jose Medina was recognized by then Chief Scott Wainwright for a harrowing rescue in 2022. Wainwright also presented awards for 2022 to Matt Nauerth, Adam Leggett, and Alex Cervini. Medina then then presented awards for 2023 to Mary Smith, Tim Smith, and Zach Alexander.
Officers from the American Legion Harsch Crisp Seaman Post 379 presented their Firefighter of the Year Award to Past Assistant Chief Allan Hoy for his many years of service to the community, the department, and to his family. Post Commander Jack Tangen and Post Adjutant Bill Fine honored Hoy and also presented a donation to the association. Hoy has been an active volunteer firefighter since joining the department in 1976. He has served in a variety of leadership roles, including assistant chief, as well as president of his fire company. Hoy was recognized for his participation in several large-scale incidents and for his overall high level of activity. In addition to his life of service as a volunteer firefighter, Hoy (pictured below) became active in town government, serving on the town board for over 27 years.
New York State Association of Fire Chiefs