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 parade, athletic
competitions, fundraisers, and celebrations, reinforcing its identity as
a cornerstone of "Small Town USA" and a gathering place for generations
of local families; and
WHEREAS, The members of the Yaphank Fire Department have not only
served as first responders but have also contributed as civic leaders,
business owners, educators, and public servants, strengthening the
fabric of the Town of Brookhaven; and
WHEREAS, Under the current leadership of Chairman Donald Schaaf and
the Board of Fire Commissioners, District Manager Matthew Quinn, and
Department Chief Donald E. Schaaf, along with their fellow officers and
staff, the Yaphank Fire Department continues its proud tradition of
excellence and service; and
WHEREAS, The 100th Anniversary of the Yaphank Fire Department is a
significant milestone which offers an opportunity to reflect upon its
rich history, honor its past and present members, and celebrate its
enduring contributions to the community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Yaphank Fire Department,
recognizing its distinguished history and invaluable service to the
people of the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Yaphank Fire Department.
