Sitting with me in the firehouse is Kevin Madigan, fondly known as K-Mad, representing Freeport Fire Department's Hose Company #4. Alongside his firefighting duties, Kevin is the proud owner of K2M Photography, specializing in fire photography. Today, he offers insights into his multifaceted role, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of firefighting. We'll explore the tight-knit bonds within his team, the commitment to public safety, and the unique perspective brought by his photography endeavors. Kevin's journey reflects the courage and dedication inherent in firefighting. Join us for an enlightening discussion on community service and the art of capturing bravery through the lens.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Anthony Lebron. A lifelong Uniondale resident, Anthony Lebron has dedicated his career to serving his community. After graduating from Uniondale High School in 1997, he joined the Uniondale Fire Department Protection Co #4, rising through the ranks from Lieutenant to Captain and eventually becoming the first three-time Ex-Chief of the department. In this role, he led the department during the prestigious presidential debates held at Hofstra University.

Lebron's commitment to public service extends beyond firefighting - he was elected as a Fire Commissioner of the Uniondale Fire District, a position he has held for over a decade, including two five-year terms. Currently employed by the Nassau County Sheriff's Department, Lebron continues to be an active and respected leader in the Uniondale community.

Sitting with me in the firehouse is Chief Kyle Boles. As a 30-year veteran of the Hempstead Fire Department, Chief Kyle Boles has dedicated his life to protecting his community. From a young age, Kyle was drawn to the heroic work of firefighters, watching the trucks rush by with fascination. That early passion fueled his rise through the ranks, from lieutenant to captain and now chief of Truck Company 1.

Before joining the Hempstead team, Kyle honed his skills as a volunteer firefighter with the Roosevelt Fire Department, forging the unbreakable brotherhood that sustains him in his dangerous profession. Now at the helm of one of the region's most respected fire companies, Chief Boles continues to lead by example, using his decades of experience to safeguard the people of Hempstead.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Donald Hayde from the Baldwin Fire Department. Born into a family of firefighters, Donald Hayde's legacy with the Uniondale Fire Department runs deep. Raised in Uniondale, Hayde's grandfather was a founding member of the Uniondale Fire Department in 1924, and his father followed in his footsteps, joining the department in 1940. Hayde practically grew up in the firehouse, tagging along with his father and knowing from a young age that he too would one day don the uniform. In 1971, Hayde made that dream a reality, officially joining the Fire Department and dedicating over five decades to protecting his community.

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Malik Duff. Malik Duff is a true lifesaver, both on and off the battlefield. As a current Baltimore City firefighter assigned to Truck Company 8, Malik puts his expertise and passion for service to work every day, responding to emergencies with skill and bravery. His dedication doesn't stop there - Malik has been a proud member of the Roosevelt Fire Department since 2014, where he has served as a Lieutenant for 4 years and currently leads as a training officer. In addition to his firefighting duties, Malik is also an EMS skills instructor and evaluator, as well as a certified CPR instructor. With his extensive background and unwavering commitment, it's no wonder Malik is a true asset to his community. And as a United States Marine Corps veteran, he brings an unparalleled level of discipline and heroism to every role he takes on.

Sitting with me in the fire house is Joseph Gerrato. At just 14 years old, Joseph Gerrato began his distinguished career in public service as an Explorer, honing his leadership skills as captain from 1996-1997. Over the past 28 years, Joseph has dedicated himself to protecting his community as a firefighter, rising through the ranks to become Chief of the Department - a role he has held for the past 6 years. Known for his tireless work ethic and commitment to excellence, Joseph has been elected to numerous leadership positions, including Engine Company 1 Secretary, Lieutenant, and Captain, as well as Department Treasurer, Exempts Association Sergeant-at-Arms, Vice President, and President. Most recently, Joseph was appointed as the Chief Fire Inspector, a position he has held since 2005. Through his steadfast service and unwavering dedication, Joseph has cemented his reputation as an indispensable asset to his fire department and the community it serves.

Sitting with me in the firehouse is John Ippolito Jr. John Ippolito Jr. A third-generation firefighter, John Ippolito Jr. has dedicated over 35 years to serving his community. As the current Assistant Chief of the Bay Shore Fire Department (BSFD), John's passion for the fire service runs deep - he's been an active member since joining the Juniors in 1985. After college, John became an EMT and volunteered with the Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance before embarking on a 22-year career with the NYPD, retiring in 2022 from the elite Emergency Service Unit. Throughout it all, John has remained a fixture at the BSFD, earning the prestigious New York State Firefighter of the Year award in 2008 for his heroic actions. Now in his second stint as Chief, John continues the family legacy, with his father, twin brothers, and son Andrew all active members of the department. With an eye for photography that has landed his images in Fire News, John is a true renaissance man of the fire service.

Sitting with me in the firehouse is Commissioner Noel Thomas. Noel Thomas has dedicated over three decades to protecting his community as a member of the Uniondale Fire Department. Since joining the force in 1990, this seasoned firefighter has risen through the ranks, serving as a firefighter, lieutenant, captain, and even holding the prestigious position of assistant chief - twice. With 34 years of experience under his belt, Noel's unwavering commitment to public safety has earned him the respect of both his colleagues and the community he serves. In addition to his distinguished career on the frontlines, Noel has also been a fire commissioner for the past 17 years, further demonstrating his leadership and passion for the fire service.