KENNETH E. MCNARY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
The Kenneth E. Mc Nary Achievement Award was initiated in February 1990 following the celebration and recognition of Ken McNary’s extraordinary achievement of 60 years of active service to the Elsmere Fire Co. A, Inc. Ken passed away on July 9, 2006 after serving a spectacular 73 years of active service with the Elsmere Fire Company.
The award was developed by the Recruitment and Retention Committee comprised of six members representing various areas of responsibility within the Fire District and Fire Company. The committee consisted of Chairman and President Stephen R. Wright, Assistant Chief Edward J. Costigan, Commissioner James B. Hogan, Commissioner Wayne R. Johnson, Lieutenant Peter G. Merrill, and Lieutenant Richard C. Watt. This committee established the criteria and level of dedication and accomplishment which should be considered in the determination of future award recipients.
In general, the award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community.
We are proud of the Elsmere Firefighters that been honored over the years. Each is listed below.
Lieutenant Michael A. Moon
2023
Lieutenant Michael A. Moon is the recipient of the 2023 Kenneth E. McNary Award...
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Michael L Taylor
2022
Michael L Taylor is the 2022 recipient of the Kenneth E McNary Achievement Award.
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Alan J. Antenucci
2021
This award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community...
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Charles F. Peters
2020
Firefighter Charles F. Peters was awarded the 31st Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award as a virtual ceremony at the Elsmere Fire Station on September 24, 2020. Click the "Read More" link to view the letter outlining his accomplishments...
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James A. Trotta
2019
2019 Kenneth E. McNary Award:
This award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of Dedication, Professionalism, and Concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community. This year’s recipient began as a social member in January, 1975, and 11 days later, transferred to become an active member of our Department. He was halfway into his senior year at Bethlehem Central High School at the time, and since then, has been a true example of the characteristics worthy of this award. After joining Elsmere 44 years ago, he has seized every opportunity to develop himself and further his knowledge and skills to become the very best at what a firefighter does. His worldly skills and knowledge continue to make him a tremendous asset particularly at a call when the crew may be young, but his knowledge is plentiful. He enjoys lending his experience to our younger members and even our officers when he notices something isn’t quite right, or a procedure isn’t being followed. He believes in following the rules, and he lives by one rule; “Follow the rules!”
In 1988, his work required him to leave the area but his heart and passion for Elsmere never did. After 15 years, he returned home and is dedication and passion for volunteering and his friends at Elsmere has kept the fire burning in him. This passion is deeply rooted in his family as his brother is also a member at Elsmere. His high level of commitment to Elsmere does not end with his firematic skills. Our recipient also possesses tremendous administrative skills. He was elected Company Director in 1984, and served as a Board member for 12 years. He then decided to take on more administrative responsibilities and served as Company President for 5 years, leading us as we continued to grow and face the ever changing and sometimes complex challenges associated with running a large volunteer association. Many of the policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines currently in place today include his guiding hand and wise input. Over his almost two decades in office, he has voted on many issues and concerns that typically arise in volunteer organizations, and his commitment and dedication to the Elsmere Fire Company has been unwavering in each instance. After leaving the office of President, he was again elected as Director for another three-year term, which ensured a smooth transition for the following administration. Upon leaving his civil position, he filled a much needed position as District Quartermaster, and for the next several years, worked tirelessly to ensure that all of our equipment and gear were up to date, in service and inventoried. Our records are impeccable, and whether it’s for an audit, our insurance carrier, New York State or even our ISO rating, he is able to produce the necessary and required documents to satisfy any request. Even with all of his administrative duties which he served with the highest and best ethics and morals, he never forgets his number one priority, and that is to serve the residents of the Elsmere Fire District with honor, dignity and the best fire prevention and suppression methods possible.
As I stated earlier, this award requires three characteristics: Dedication, professionalism and Concern. Our recipient has demonstrated these traits throughout his entire tenure with Elsmere in what he says and what he does. It is my great pleasure to present this special award to this distinct member; ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring this true professional, James Trotta, as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth McNary Award.
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Margaret Ann Austin
2017
Each year, we at the Elsmere Fire Company have the honor of recognizing a member who exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for their fellow firefighters.These characteristics, and one’s commitment to the community are traits we value here at Elsmere, and in the fire service in general, and the individual we recognize this evening demonstrates them all.
The initial training that is required to become a firefighter is physically demanding and is no easy feat for anyone.This member, however, completed that training back in [2004] when she was at an age when most folks are considering retirement or golf.This members’ dedication to the fire service has not waned since then.In fact, it has only grown.
Whether it be on the fire ground, at the Company’s fish fries, or while assisting with the Company’s many social and community events, this member is always among the first to volunteer to assist.She helps run the concession stand at the Racing Team’s annual tournament and has been integral in the Company’s many recruitment and retention efforts.Her dedication to the Company in all of its various roles is unquestionable.
Where this member shines brightest, however, is her concern and care for her fellow firefighters.This member’s friendly, cheerful, and sincere manner make her a natural for providing emotional support to all our members.If you ever need someone to talk to, this member is there.She is especially supportive of our newest members, and takes them under her wing and provides a role model and inspiration to our growing number of female firefighters.Elsmere could not be more proud of her contributions and achievements in that regard.
For these reasons, and for countless more, it is my great pleasure to recognize an amazing woman with this very special award.Although she could not be here this evening, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring Anne Austin as this year’s recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.
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Paul L. Martin
2016
This year we are giving this award to an outstanding member who during the past 37 years has demonstrated himself as one of the most respectable firefighters of the Company....
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President John C. Murphy
2015
President John C. Murphy received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award at the Inspection ceremonies on May 9, 2015.
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Assistant Chief Frank Wickham
2014
Assistant Chief Frank Wickham joined the Elsmere Fire Company in April 1989, twenty-five years ago.
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Past Chief William H. Webb
2013
The 2013 recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award is Past Chief William H. Webb.
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President Joseph M. Catalano
2012
President Joseph M. Catalano is the 2012 recipient of the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award.
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Daniel P. McMahon, Jr.
2011
Daniel P. McMahon Jr. joined the Elsmere Fire Company on June 29, 1978, becoming an active firefighter on August 8th of that year. He served as a Lieutenant from April 1988 through April 1990, and again from November 1991 through April 1993.
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Terence S. Hannigan
2010
Terry Hannigan is a thirteen year veteran of the Elsmere Fire Department. He came to us with experience from a previous membership in Carmen Fire Department. He was also an Explorer for Niagara County Sheriff's Office. Terry has been an Emergency Medical Technician since he was seventeen years old.
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John J. Zboray
2009
Captain John Zboray (on right) was awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters and who maintains a high level of commitment to the Elsmere Fire Company and the community.
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Robert C. White
2008
Firefighter Robert C. White was posthumously awarded the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters and who maintains a high level of commitment to the Elsmere Fire Company and the community. Firefighter White joined the Elsmere Fire Company in November 1968. He served the Company as Secretary, Fire Lieutenant, Vice-President and President over a twenty-two year period. He also chaired the Company's Albany County Volunteer Fireman's Association Convention Committee in 1982. Sadly, Firefighter White passed away during his 40th year of active membership in the Elsmere Fire Company.
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James B. Hogan, Jr.
2007
This years award goes to a member with 30 years of service. He always wanted to be a firefighter and had encouragement from his wife after moving to Poplar Drive. After being a member for only one year, he was elected Vice-President of the Fire Company. He served in that capacity for one year. Taking his professional insights and encouragement from some late night meetings at Dick Hendrick's house he decided to run for the office of Fire District Commissioner. He served two full five year terms in that office and a partial 3rd term before moving out of the Fire District and forfeiting his seat on the board. He has been a member of the R & R committee since 1989 and served as Chair of the Nomination Committee for many years starting in 1984. Always with a smile, a joke, or a bit of wisdom, he has been a friend to everyone. Congratulations to the 18th Annual Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award winner, James B. Hogan Jr.
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Michael J. Cirillo
2006
This year's award goes to a member who has served both the fire line and civil line in various capabilities. Joining the Fire Company in 1977 he wasted no time in serving the company. Beginning with the position of Secretary in 1978. In 1982, 1983, and 1984 he served as the Fire Company Treasurer. He was then elected to two consecutive three year terms as Director. In 1992 he moved from the company line to the fire line where he served as Fire Lieutenant in 1992 and again in 1993. He is a life member who has taken many firematic course including hazmat operations, hazmat tech and confined space awareness.
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Robert C. Johnson
2005
This year's award is presented to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism, and concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and Community.
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Richard S. Webster
2004
The 2004 McNary award goes to an individual who is a friend of everyone. He is a thirty year member of the Fire Company, and a Past Chief.
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Ariel L. Goodrich
2003
This year the award goes to an individual, who is a quiet and unassuming person, always busy with work that no one really knows is taking place. He has been a Treasurer of his church, and has sat on the board of the Good Samaritan Home. For many years he was a coach of the Blue Cross- Blue Shield Babe Ruth Team.
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John E. Brennan
2002
This year the award goes to a person who has made a definite impact on the Fire Company and the Fire Service. He is a 28-year member who we know as Jack. His wife knows him as John. Others know him as Senator. He has been called "Jackie the Jokeman" by some and "Action Jackson" by others.
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James Reagan
2001
The award this year goes to an individual who joined the Fire Company twenty-six years ago . He has been busy advancing in the fire service as well as the emergency medical service. Having served in the capacities of Vice-President, 3rd Lieutenant, 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant, he currently holds the rank of Captain since 1997.
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Oliver H. Palmer
2000
The award this year goes to an individual who meets these criteria in every respect, and he may be the most popular choice to receive this award yet. If we went only on the record, this individual might be passed over. He has only served in one office throughout his volunteer career, that of Property Clerk in the early sixties. With forty-seven years of Active Service, he is the spirit of the Fire Company. All members, new and old, hold him in high regard and respect as a veteran firefighter. As a driver he has chauffeured many firefighters to all types of emergencies. He is always at drill with a “hi, how are you?”. He is senior man at all daytime calls where he is always helping out the newer members. You can’t go anywhere with him, without someone recognizing him and wanting to share memories of years gone by. He was recognized as Fireman of the Year in 1991.
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Frederick C. Webster
1999
The Kenneth E. McNary Award was established in 1990 by the Recruitment and Retention Committee in celebration and recognition of Ken's sixty years of active service to the Elsmere Fire Co. The award is presented annually to an individual whose performance best exemplifies the characteristics of dedication, professionalism and concern for fellow firefighters as well as maintaining the spirit of the Elsmere Fire Company by exhibiting a high level of commitment to the Fire Company and the Community.
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Wayne R. Johnson
1998
Firefighter Wayne R. Johnson received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1998.
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J. Robert Hendrick
1997
Past Chief and Past Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners J. Robert Hendrick received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1997.
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Kevin M. Shea
1996
Assistant Chief Kevin M. Shea received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1996.
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Steven R. Wright
1995
Firefighter Stephen R. Wright received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1995.
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George M. Kaufman
1994
Past Chief George M. Kaufman received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1994.
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Jerome C. Smith
1993
Firefighter Jerome C. Smith received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1993.
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Edward J. Costigan
1992
Chief Edward J. Costigan received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1992.
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Anthony J. Morrell
1991
Commissioner Anthony J. Morrell received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1991.
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Paul H. Kleinke
1990
Past Chief Paul H. Kleinke received the Kenneth E. McNary Achievement Award in 1990.
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