Northport FD Chief Named Firefighter of the Year

Story & photo by Steve Silverman

The Town of Huntington Fire Chiefs’ Council recently presented its Firefighter of the Year Award to First Assistant Chief Joe Pansini of the Northport Fire Department. Chief Pansini was recognized for his quick and heroic actions taken on June 7, 2013, while at the scene of a swift water storm surge on Main Street in Northport Village.

Chief Pansini was able to free a husband and wife that were swept away and trapped underneath a vehicle by the sudden flooding situation. Pansini risked his own life by going underwater beneath the vehicle and pulled both victims to safety. His actions undoubtedly saved the lives of these two individuals.

Making the presentation at the Annual Installation of the Fire Chiefs’ Council are Executive Board officers, pictured from left, Secretary David Mohr of the Huntington Community First Aid Squad, Treasurer Gary Hontz of the Eaton’s Neck Fire Department, President Scott Waryold of the Greenlawn Fire Department, Chief Joe Pansini, First Vice President John McKenna of the Northport Fire Department, and Second Vice President John McDonough of the Northport Fire Department.