Youth Group of the Year

 

Founded in 1895, the West Sayville Junior Fire Department has spent more than a century developing young people into future firefighters and community leaders. Known as the “Future of Tradition,” the program remains a cornerstone of recruitment and retention for the West Sayville Fire Department.

Members, who are between 8 and 18 years old, attend monthly meetings modeled after the senior department. Monthly training includes hands-on instruction in hose handling, ladders, forcible entry, search and rescue, radio use, vehicle placement and Hurst tool operations. Juniors also receive CPR, first aid and Stop the Bleed training. Older members participate in leadership classes and advanced training that builds responsibility and prepares them for future service.

Community service is central to the program. Members take part in Memorial Day ceremonies, grave decorating, parades, and fire prevention events, as well as food drives and other charitable fundraisers and activities, which support local organizations.

Through training, service and leadership development, the West Sayville Junior Fire Department continues to produce generations of volunteer firefighters and civic leaders serving in fire, EMS, military and public safety careers.

Past Award Recipients

2024	New Hyde Park Junior Fire Department
2023	East Norwich Junior Firefighters
2022	Bay Shore-Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance Youth Squad
2020	Westhampton Beach Junior Fire Department
2019	Great Neck Alert Junior Firefighters
2018	Hicksville Fire Department Juniors
2017	Mastic Fire Department Explorer Post No. 512
2016	Mineola Junior Fire Department
2015	Moyers Corners Fire Department Explorer Post No. 209
2014	Lake Carmel Fire Department Explorer Post No. 2041
2013	Port Chester Fire Department Explorer Post No. 700
2012	Fairville Volunteer Fire Department Explorer Post #751