When Frank Nocerino became a volunteer firefighter with the North Massapequa Fire Department at age 18, it was the fulfillment of one of his childhood dreams. Now, 30 years later, he has risen to heights he hadn't even imagined he could achieve.

Nocerino was recently named chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission, the highest rank anyone can attain in the Nassau County Fire Service. Additionally, he is slated to be installed in May of 2002 as president of the Association of Fire Districts of New York State. The association represents over 700 fire districts and 122,000 firefighters in the State of New York. Nocerino will hold both positions simultaneously for a period of approximately 10 days.

"This is truly a dream come true and I am very proud of it," Nocerino said. "I never once thought I would become chairman. I just concentrated on working my way up." Nocerino, who has 30 years in the fire service, has gone through the ranks of the N. Massapequa Fire Department. He was made chief of the department from 1981 to 1983, went on to become secretary of the Fire Commission, then vice chairman, until reaching his present position of chairman. He is also the current vice president of the NYS Association of Fire Districts.

In his 30 years as a volunteer firefighter, Nocerino has been involved in stopping many fires, and has risked his life countless times to help local residents. In 1977, he was honored with a heroism/lifesaving award for rescuing three people from a burning building in North Massapequa. "The rewards of risking our lives are honor and glory," Nocerino said. "We do it to help our fellow neighbors, to give back to our community."

Married for 25 years, with four children, Nocerino acknowledges his wife for being with him "since day one." He also credited members of the N. Massapequa Fire Department for his achievement. "I want to thank the members of my own fire department, because if they didn't elect me, I wouldn't be where I am today," he said. "I'd also like to thank the residents of Massapequa for electing me as fire commissioner, and everyone in the fire service for the support they have given me throughout the years.

"It is an honor to serve. We don't do it for pay. We do it to help a neighbor in need. That is what the volunteer fire service is all about."