As the tragic events of Sept. 11 at the World Trade Center were taking place, I would like to take this opportunity to inform you of the activities of the Elmont Fire Department and to thank the residents of the Elmont Fire Department for your generosity. At approximately 10 a.m. an alarm for all available manpower respond to quarters went out. Engine Company #3 on Meacham Ave. and Truck Company #2 on Lehrer Avenue were dispatch to Engine Co. 311 in Queens. The 20 firefighters spent over 24 hours protecting that portion of Queens. EMS Company was dispatched to the Shea Stadium parking lot awaiting assignment. Later that evening they responded to the Chelsea Piers in lower Manhattan to assist in possible rescue transportation. Over 100 pieces of fire and rescue apparatus from the other 71 departments of Nassau County as well as numerous others from Suffolk were staged at the parking lot of Belmont Race Track awaiting orders. The remainder of the Elmont Fire Department stood by in quarters to protect our own town. In the ensuing days, many other emergency vehicles and manpower were deployed to New York City.

As you know, donations were being asked for. The residents of the Elmont Fire District came out in force. Donations ranging from food and clothing to money and blood was gathered at area firehouses. I want to ensure you that all the donations were sent to the rescue workers at the site and the monetary donations were sent to charities to assist the families that suffered a loss in the name of the Elmont Fire Department and its residents.

It is nice to know that we live in a community of such caring and giving. Thanks to all of you from the Chiefs, Commissioners and members of the Elmont Fire Department.

Vincent Focazio, Jr.

Chief of Elmont Fire Department