New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1 Holds Awards Ceremony

By Y.M. Lowy

New City Fire Engine Company No. 1 held its annual Installation of Officers and Awards Ceremony at the firehouse, bringing together members and local and state officials for the occasion.

The ceremony began at 2 p.m., with President Victor Caraballo and Chief Brendan Wren officially sworn in for the coming year, along with the department’s line officers and administrative officers. The event also served as an opportunity to recognize members for their dedication and service throughout the past year.

Several firefighters were honored for outstanding call response and drill attendance, with Firefighter Brandyn Rivas named Top Responder and Top Driller. Chief Wren also presented the department’s Firefighter of the Year award, which is given annually to a member who goes above and beyond their regular duties.

This year’s Firefighter of the Year was Firefighter Eric Zweigbaum, a Life Member with more than 20 years of service to the department. In presenting the award, Chief Wren noted that despite his long tenure, Zweigbaum continues to take on multiple roles, including Assistant Chief Engineer, Fire Police, Safety Officer, and coordinator of the department’s fire prevention program.

The department congratulated all of the incoming officers and extended best wishes to Chief Wren and President Caraballo as they begin another year of leadership and service to the community.