With the latest revelations about the issues facing Long Island volunteer fire departments in Newsday all last week, I wish to point out the reasons to elect a new Hicksville fire commissioner, Bob Manson.

Bob has been a resident of Hicksville for 44 years and a member of the New York City Fire Department for almost as long. During his tenure with the department, he rose through the ranks to become an assistant chief of the New York City Fire Department. He has broad knowledge of fire equipment, training and issues concerning personnel retention.

The issues highlighted in Newsday point to the ever-growing problems, including the mindset of administrators in the volunteer fire departments. They have not recognized the issues highlighted nor have they recommended remedial action and haven't yet stopped past practices that have been ineffective.

"Lets Move Forward" with Bob Manson.

Please vote for Bob between 4 and 9 p.m. on Dec. 13 at the main Hicksville fire house, 20 East Marie Street.

Walter Gaylor