The past few weeks have seen some exciting events in Farmingdale's fire departments - installation of officers, review of the past year's accomplishments, and most recently, the unveiling of a new ladder truck for the East Farmingdale Fire Department.

The events offer an opportunity to reflect on the outstanding contribution the volunteer companies - the Farmingdale, South Farmingdale and East Farmingdale Fire Departments-make to the local community.

Year after year, these men and women risk their lives to protect Farmingdale's residents and businesses from harm, and they do so without pay or much other recognition. Their families, too, make an admirable sacrifice, when the firefighters have to give up valuable time with them in order to respond to a call - and perhaps save someone's life.

Our firefighters are not only brave, they share a deep pride and comradeship that comes from protecting not only the community, but also each other, in times of emergency.

We salute them, and encourage continued support of the vital work they do for all of Farmingdale.

A.M.