New Wantagh Fire Chiefs Look To Uphold Tradition, Standards

WANTAGH, NY. — The Wantagh Fire Department held annual elections for line officer positions this December, naming former First Assistant Chief William Stevens Chief of Department. Stevens will be supported by new First Assistant Chief Paul Krussman, Second Assistant Chief Christopher Dolley and Third Assistant Chief Richard Mongiello.

Bidding farewell to the department is Leonard Mathewson, who served in a leadership role over the past eight years and stuck around at the election ceremony to present Mongiello with his white helmet, indicative of his new leadership role in the department.

For Mongiello, that step into leadership comes with extra responsibility, but the new assistant chief said that responsibility gives him a renewed focus on what’s important in the department.

"It feels like a significant responsibility, and one I take very seriously. This department has shaped a large part of my life, and stepping into the role of Chief means being fully accountable for our people, our operations, and our standards,” Mongiello said. “I'm honored by the trust that's been placed in me, and my focus is on leading with integrity, supporting our members, and ensuring the department continues to move forward.”

For Stevens, the jump to chief of department comes after nearly four decades of service, a tenure that has allowed him ample time to see how the department’s leadership operates.

“I’m extremely proud to be elected Chief by the men and women of the Wantagh Fire Department. I’ve been a member for 37 years now and I’m ready to carry on the tradition set forth from past chiefs,” Stevens said. “The members of the Wantagh Fire Department are always ready when the call comes in for any emergency, 24/7.”