Fire Service Community Achievement Award

2023 Winner

Ex-Captain Gerard W. Brown

Baldwin Fire Department

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FASNY’s annual Fire Service Community Achievement Award recognizes an individual who complements active fire service with involvement in civic organizations, charitable programs, and other community groups.

Ex-Captain Gerard W. Brown, a 50-year volunteer member of the Baldwin Fire Department on Long Island, checks all those boxes – and then some!

Brown, or “Jerry,” as he is known to the department and community of Baldwin, has enjoyed an outstanding career unparalleled in effort and positive results.

“Jerry’s initiative and foresight have resulted in new and innovative programs adopted by our department over the years,” said Timothy Hagan, captain, Hook and Ladder Company Two. “His leadership qualities and ability to think outside the box have brought many members into the loop of training, brotherhood, and dedication.”

Hagan credits firefighter Brown for transitioning Baldwin Fire Department into the modern era of firefighting.  It was he who introduced advanced training and firefighter safety, while maintaining “old school values.”

Whether he’s battling fires or helping others around the firehouse, Brown’s positive energy — dubbed “iron man firefighting” by many — rubs off on colleagues and other local and national departments in need of help. His infectious outlook has also played an important role helping Baldwin Fire Department maintain its overall high call average.

Besides his devotion to the fire service, Brown, a lifelong resident of Baldwin, finds time to give thousands of hours to help neighbors, friends, and youth in the community flourish.  A respected community leader, he serves his hometown as a volunteer, sanitation commissioner, activist, teacher, conservationist and mentor.

“Jerry has a strong desire to help those around him and leads by example, never asking anyone to do what he would not do himself,” said Hagan. “He’s the person you call when all else has failed.

“Jerry doesn’t just preach the brotherhood, he lives it,” he added. “He accomplishes all this while remaining a devoted family man.”

Past Award Recipients