The New City Fire Department held its annual Installation of Officers and Awards Ceremony on Sunday afternoon at the firehouse, celebrating leadership, service, and dedication within the department.
The ceremony was attended by family members, friends, and local and state officials. During the event, President Victor Caraballo and Chief Brendan Wren were formally sworn in, along with the department’s line officers and administrative officers.
Several members were recognized for their commitment throughout the year, including outstanding call and drill attendance. Firefighter Brandyn Rivas was honored as the department’s Top Responder and Top Driller.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the presentation of the Firefighter of the Year award, an annual honor selected by the Chief and reserved for a member who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty. This year’s award was presented to Firefighter Eric Zweigbaum, a Life Member with more than 20 years of service to the department. In his remarks, Chief Wren noted that despite achieving Life Member status, Zweigbaum has “not slowed down,” continuing to serve as an Assistant Chief Engineer, Fire Police officer, Safety Officer, and the coordinator of the department’s successful fire prevention program.
The department concluded the ceremony by congratulating all incoming officers and commending Chief Wren and President Caraballo on another successful year of leadership and service to the community.
