Fire Commissioner Nigro Presides over Promotion Ceremony for Fire Officers

July 26, 2018

Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro presided over the promotion of Fire Officers on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at Christian Cultural Center.

“Each of you is taking on an enormous responsibility today,” said Fire Commissioner Nigro. “You have all demonstrated to us that you are more than capable of being a leader in the FDNY, a great deal has been asked of you already in your careers, and starting today, we will ask even more of you.”

30 Firefighters were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, 15 Lieutenants were promoted to Captain, and 20 Firefighters were promoted to the rank of Fire Marshal, 2 Firefighters were promoted to Supervisor Fire Marshal Level I, and 1 Firefighter was promoted to Supervisor Fire Marshal Level II.

“How you lead affects the rest of the firehouse, never forget you are the ones that lead and does this job,” said Chief of Department James E. Leonard. “Our Lieutenants, Captains, and Fire Marshals are all important and you as our officers risk a lot to save lives and continue to keep New Yorkers safe.”

The Chief of Department also highlighted the promoted members of the Department who have served in the military.

“I am a Coast Guard war Veteran and an active member in the United States Coast Guard Reserve. The Military and FDNY went hand and hand for me,” said newly promoted Captain Bill Murphy. “They intermingle in training, and any experience you have in one you can bring to the other. It makes for a different perspective and allows you to learn a lot. This was my calling in life.”

Promoted Lieutenant Mike Galard credited his uncle, Battalion Chief Joseph Grzelak, as his inspiration for joining the Department.

“My uncle, Battalion Chief Joseph Grzelak of Battalion 48, died during the attacks on September 11. He is the main reason I decided to join the Department in the first place. Even if he was alive he would have made me take the test because he loved the job so much. He never had a bad thing to say about it. I’m excited to learn a new aspect of this job and play a different role. I’m sad to be leaving the firehouse that taught me everything, but I’m ready to start this new chapter,” said Lieutenant Galard.

The promoted officers will be assigned to units throughout the city.

For photos of the promotion ceremony, click here.