Wantagh Fire Department Unveils 2020 Award-Winners

WANTAGH, NY — Several firefighters and other first responders were recently recognized by the Wantagh Fire Department for their contributions to the community, including a former fire captain who saved the life of one a comrade who choked on a piece of meat.

The Wantagh Fire Department held its annual awards ceremony Nov. 2. The event was held virtually due to coronavirus restrictions and to keep members safe. Members were recognized for their contributions, which often go above and beyond the call of duty, and benefit both the fire department and the residents they serve.

Former Capt. Joe Borst was recognized for springing into action Jan. 25 and performing the Heimlich maneuver on a fellow department member who started choking. At the time, members were at an annual fundraiser at fire headquarters. Borst saw his comrade was struggling to breathe, and swiftly performed the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the meat, the fire department said. Had Borst not acted swiftly and efficiently, the outcome could have been "catastrophic," the department said. For his actions, Borst was awarded department's Life Saving Award.

EMS Capt. Stephen Lincke, who was honored earlier this year with national recognition by being named EMS World "Paramedic of the Year," was awarded the Wantagh Fire Department’s Community Service Award. Additionally, fire medic and EMT Jackie Ferraro, who joined the department in March 2019, was recognized as EMS Provider of the Year. The department noted she quickly established a reputation as a dedicated member who often stepped up to fill open tours on the EMS "Duty Crew" during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Her patient care skills and abilities are commendable, and she is eager to learn and always willing to help," the department wrote in a Facebook post. "According to her officers, 'no' is not in her vocabulary, and she is often the first one to step up when volunteers are sought out for a task."

Meanwhile, former Capt. Joe Gross was selected as Firefighter of the Year. Gross joined the department in 1990 and has served as both a lieutenant and captain. He serves on the department's training committee, fire prevention, marine one and as a safety officer. He also plays an active role in Company 1 and Station 3. Recently retired, Gross makes himself available for tasks and actively filled spots as a driver during the pandemic. He's also known for sharing his experience and knowledge with newer members.

And because the coronavirus pandemic created unique challenges, the chief’s office awarded all personnel at the Wantagh Fire Department a Certificate of Merit. The department noted that all district staff have fulfilled their responsibilities and worked tirelessly in their roles to ensure the fire district and department could meet the community's needs and expectations.

Lastly, members of the department's coronavirus task force were also recognized with the Wantagh Fire Department Chief’s Award. This includes Capt. Bradley Field, Capt. Daniel Brandon, Capt. Steven Lincke, former Chief William Field, former Capt. Thomas Brandon, PIO and former Capt. Kevin Regan and Secretaries Lisa Lang-Gross and James Vinson. The task force is comprised of senior members with varied experience. They met weekly to discuss challenges and remedies, review data and intelligence and act as an advisory board for the chief’s office.