Yaphank Fire Department Celebrates 100 Years

The Yaphank Fire Department celebrated a century of service as firefighters, first responders, elected officials and residents lined the streets for a parade honoring the department's 100th anniversary.

The community celebration recognized generations of volunteers who have protected Yaphank since 1926 and featured marching bands, emergency apparatus, live music, food, refreshments and family activities celebrating a century of dedication.

New York State Sen. Dean Murray, R,C-East Patchogue, joined firefighters, first responders, community leaders and residents for the milestone event and praised the department's unwavering commitment to public safety.

“For 100 years, the men and women of the Yaphank Fire Department have answered the call with courage, dedication, and selfless service. It was an honor to celebrate this incredible milestone with the department and thank our firefighters for all they do to keep our community safe. Congratulations on 100 years of outstanding service,” Murray said.

The Yaphank Fire Department was officially organized on Sept. 14, 1926, becoming the first fire department to serve the local community.

Residents elected the department's first Board of Fire Commissioners the following year, launching what has become one of Suffolk County's longest-serving volunteer fire departments. During the past century, the organization has been led by 35 fire chiefs while generations of local families have continued a proud tradition of volunteer service.

Today, the department protects 14.1 square miles encompassing Yaphank and portions of Medford and Shirley, serving more than 6,000 residents.

Its approximately 110 volunteer members provide fire and rescue services, supported by paid emergency medical personnel on duty 24 hours a day.

The department also earned a reputation for innovation, becoming one of the first in the region to place the Hurst "Jaws of Life" rescue tool into service while pioneering specialized military-style vehicles for battling Pine Barrens brush fires.

From historic wildfires and major Long Island Expressway crashes to countless emergency calls, Yaphank firefighters have spent 100 years answering the call, creating a legacy that Sunday's celebration proudly recognized.