The Piermont Fire Department Dive Team celebrated a major milestone on Friday, March 6, 2026, marking 70 years of dedicated service to the community.
Originally founded by seven members—who have all since passed away—the team’s legacy of commitment and perseverance continues to live on through today’s divers. Fire officials noted that the spirit and “never give up” attitude established by the original members remains a guiding principle for the current generation of dive team personnel.
In its early days, the team operated with minimal equipment. Divers responded aboard 13-500, wearing rubber suits and using a single steel tank with U.S. Divers double-hose regulators. Despite the limited resources, the team successfully carried out numerous underwater search and recovery missions.
Over the decades, the unit has evolved significantly. Today, the Piermont Fire Department Dive Team is equipped with modern full-face masks, dry suits, side-scan sonar technology, and two boats, giving divers access to some of the most advanced tools available for underwater operations.
Department officials expressed appreciation to Piermont taxpayers and the Village Board for their continued support, which has helped the team maintain and upgrade its equipment.
Members also recognized the dedication of both past and present divers who have served on the team over the past seven decades. Former members and community residents who may have photographs from their time with the dive team are encouraged to share them as part of the anniversary celebration.