John DaVanzo isn't known as "Mr. Mineola" for nothing. The lifelong resident has been active in Mineola's government and volunteer organizations including the Mineola Volunteer Fire, where he has been a member for 57 years.

DaVanzo was recently surprised that he had been chosen to receive a prestigious honor from the Firemen's Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

From a letter from Michael Cesare, chairman of the fire service achievement award committee, DaVanzo learned he had been chosen to receive the Firemen's Association of the State of New York Fire Service Achievement Award for the Year 2004. The award is presented to a person who has become a pillar of their fire department and community.

DaVanzo has indeed become not only a staple of the Mineola Fire Department but also of the Village of Mineola, which has benefited from his leadership and dedication over the years.

DaVanzo was born in Mineola and has lived in the village his entire life. At Mineola High School, he lettered in football, baseball, basketball and track.

After graduating from Mineola High School, DaVanzo attended Hofstra University. During his time in college, he was called to duty during World War II.

Just two days after D-Day, the ship DaVanzo had been assigned to, the Navy Destroyer the U.S.S. Glennon, which had been hurling shells upon the shore of Normandy in support of troops advancing North toward Quineville, struck a mine not far from the shore.

DaVanzo survived the ordeal and returned to his hometown of Mineola, where he became involved in government. He served as a trustee in the Village of Mineola for 10 years including time as the deputy mayor. He also served as member of the library board for 17 years as well as councilman and clerk for the Town of North Hempstead.

DaVanzo's list of community involvement is a long one. The honors he has received are also vast. He was named Kiwanis Man of the Year in 1988, Knights of Columbus Knight of the Year and Fireman of the Year. DaVanzo was also bestowed with the honor of being a fire chief.

DaVanzo currently serves as a director on the board for the Birchwood Court complex. He volunteers his time for St. Francis Hospital. He planned the fire department golf outing and was even seen one summer afternoon at Wilson Park cooking hot dogs for children in the Mineola Summer Recreation Program.

Recently, Mayor Jack M. Martins appointed DaVanzo to the centennial committee, which will help organize the village's 100th birthday in 2006.

DaVanzo carries himself with dignity and is always there to lend a hand to the community.

He will be receiving the Fire Service Achievement Award at a ceremony on Aug. 20 at the Huntington Hilton at 9:30 a.m. during the Firemen's Association of the State of NewYork 132nd Annual Convention.

Congratulations to John DaVanzo on a well-deserved honor.