PHOTOS & VIDEO: Fire Chief Todd Stark and Assistant Chiefs Steve McNamara and Michael J. Deliah Junior were sworn in as the new leaders of the Lakewood Fire Department at last night’s Chiefs Installation Dinner.
The event, held at the Woodlake Country Club, is the Departent’s largest event of the year, and attended by all the Career and Volunteers Firefighters and their families.
After enjoying a 5-course meal – with a special Kosher section prepared by Mrs. Fisgus, the families watched as the Chiefs each took the oath and moved up in the chain of command in the nearly 100 member department.
Immediately after taking the oath, the new 2nd Assistant Chief and new Fire Chief were each presented with their appropriate badge and gear – with Chief Todd Stark donning the white Chief’s coat.
In an emotional speech, outgoing Chief Rodney Youmans thanked the department for their constant support during his career, which follows in the footsteps of his father who served many years as a Lakewood firefighter until his passing in 2004.
“He loved this department, and so do I”, Youmans said, choking back tears.
Steve McNamara will serve for the next two years as the 1st Assistant Chief, while Michael J. Deliah Junior will serve as the new 2nd Assistant Chief. TLS.
Special thanks to all our paid and volunteer firemen. I guess the firemen we didn’t see in the photos are the ones we depend on day in and day out to put out the fires. So to all the special men who were not there, a hearty thanks from the bottom of our hearts.
These firemen put their lives on the line to help others. God bless them all.
Good Luck on your retirement Rodney; Everyone will miss you!
Rod congratulations on your success as chief. You went through difficult times in the department and handled them well. The last two years as chief really put you through a test. You past with flying colors. I am proud of you ! Good luck to you, and the incoming chiefs.