FIRE COMMISSIONER NIGRO PRESIDES AT CEREMONY PROMOTING 62 FDNY MEMBERS

FDNY members salute the flag as they are promoted to new leadership roles.

On Wednesday December 30, 62 FDNY members were promoted to new leadership roles as their families and colleagues cheered them on. Commissioner Daniel Nigro and Chief of Department James Leonard praised the 62 members as they welcomed them into their new ranks.

“Every member promoted today is absolutely critical to our mission, and today is truly a milestone day for each of you and for the entire Department” said Commissioner Nigro.

This past year FDNY handled over 1.6 million incidents, making it the busiest Fire Department in the country, yet the Department also experienced the first month in its 150 years of service without a fire related death. “These are extraordinary achievements, and they are a testament to the dedication each of you brings to every tour”, said Commissioner Nigro.

Family and friends cheer at the FDNY Fire Officer Promotion Ceremony.

The FDNY officers promoted have over 1,300 years of experience combined fighting fires, saving lives, and providing outstanding medical care. In their new roles they will both lead their fellow FDNY members and will serve as role models each and every day.

“We are going to be taking a bigger leadership role within the Department and primarily we’re going to be responsible for the safety of all our firefighters and officers and also for the safety of the public”, said newly promoted Battalion Chief Jason E. Cascone, a 14-year veteran of the Department.

Joseph A. Ricca, whose father, brother and sister-in-law are all retired Fire Marshals, was promoted to Supervising Fire Marshal Level II. Supervising Fire Marshal Ricca, a 19-year veteran of the Department, says that he looks forward to being a role model to his fellow members and hopes to “push them in the right direction and give them guidance”.

“That’s our role as leaders - constant improvement, always looking to raise the bar”, added Chief Leonard. “You’re taking the hard-earned reputation of the FDNY and you’re building upon it.”