It's not every family who can claim four members committed to the same dedication: firefighting. Three generations of firefighters from one family set new record at the North Massapequa Fire Department, and all are active firefighters at the same time.

Ex-Chief and Commissioner Gerard McCormack, who is also the current water commissioner of the South Farmingdale Water District, is the patriarch of the family. He is followed by his son, Ex-Chief John McCormack, who is followed by his son Shawn and daughter Kelly, both probationary firefighters and fire medics.

"It is a distinguished honor to have four fine members of one family serving at one time," said Chief Richard Erickson. "They are truly assets to the department."

Kelly, Shawn and Ex-Chief John are members of Ladder Co. 1, while Ex-Chief Gerard is a member of Friendship Co. No. 3. Kelly was the last member of the McCormack family to be sworn in at the department's regular meeting in August.

"Gerard and I have served together in the department for 48 years," said Jackson B. Pokress. "I have known them a lifetime and they are a very fine family."