The North Massapequa Fire Department will host the Annual 6th Battalion Parade and Drill Sept. 15, in honor of Ex-Chief and Commissioner Frank A. Nocerino, who was recently elected to the prestigious office of chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission.

Nocerino has a tremendous record of dedication to the fire service and the community and will be the parade's honorary Grand Marshal. Next year he will be elected to the prestigious position of president of Association of Fire Districts of New York State. In addition, Nocerino helped pioneer the length of service (LOSAP) awards for firefighters. He also serves as chairman of the Town of Oyster Bay Fire Advisory Board and with numerous other firematic and community organizations.

"He's an outstanding fireman and community resident," said North Massapequa Fire Department Chief John McCormack. "We're proud to have him as our Grand Marshal."

The Parade, slated for a 6 p.m. start, will kick-off at the corner of North Broadway and North Iowa Avenue. It will then proceed south to Jerusalem Avenue, head west on Jerusalem Avenue and conclude at the Charles Schwarting Elementary School with a gigantic block party and celebration. More than 15 neighboring departments are expected to participate in the momentous occasion.

"It will be an historic and memorable event for the North Massapequa community," Chief McCormack said. "Everyone is our department is working together to make this parade the biggest and best every."

An old-fashioned tournament will begin at the Four Towns firemen's training facility located on Merrick Road in Merrick at 10 a.m. Teams from the 6th Battalion will be on hand to compete in this tournament and fans will be assured of a fun and exciting day.

Local merchants, organizations, and residents expressed their excitement over the upcoming parade and the North Massapequa Fire Department is equally enthusiastic about paying tribute to one of its own.

"We're extremely proud to call Frank a member of this department," Chief McCormack said. "We'll make sure to run a fantastic parade and drill befitting a man whose outstanding accomplishments have brought pride and honor to this department."