"The Firehouse"- WRHU 88.7 FM hosted by Chris Moses

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Christopher Burkart. Christopher has dedicated over 15 years to serving his community as a member of the Freeport Fire Department. As the 2nd Assistant Chief, Burkart is a respected leader who oversees the operations of the Everready Hose 1 unit. But his passion for firefighting extends beyond his official duties - Burkart is a super fan of Brookside Engine 2, with a particular fondness for the rig affectionately known as "Big Russ." With his wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to public safety, Burkart continues to be an invaluable asset to the Freeport Fire Department.

Sitting with me in the firehouse is John Ippolito Jr. John Ippolito Jr. A third-generation firefighter, John Ippolito Jr. has dedicated over 35 years to serving his community. As the current Assistant Chief of the Bay Shore Fire Department (BSFD), John's passion for the fire service runs deep - he's been an active member since joining the Juniors in 1985. After college, John became an EMT and volunteered with the Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance before embarking on a 22-year career with the NYPD, retiring in 2022 from the elite Emergency Service Unit. Throughout it all, John has remained a fixture at the BSFD, earning the prestigious New York State Firefighter of the Year award in 2008 for his heroic actions. Now in his second stint as Chief, John continues the family legacy, with his father, twin brothers, and son Andrew all active members of the department. With an eye for photography that has landed his images in Fire News, John is a true renaissance man of the fire service.

Sitting with me in the firehouse is Willie Geddish. From chasing fire trucks on his bike as a child to becoming a respected partner at a national law firm, Willie has always had a deep connection to the fire service. Growing up across the street from the fire department, he would spend his youth hanging out with the firefighters and attending drills. This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion, leading him to join the department at just 18 years old.

Over the next 12 years, he climbed the ranks from lieutenant to assistant chief, bringing his unique legal expertise to the department. As the head of the investigation committee, he oversees the recruitment and retention of new members, ensuring the continued strength of the team, leads fire prevention efforts and serves as a key liaison between the department and the community.

While his day job may be in the corporate world, his true calling is on the fireground. He thrives on the camaraderie and immediacy of the fire service. With a deep appreciation for the honest, team-oriented culture, Willie finds the work a refreshing contrast to the desk-bound life of a lawyer.

"Sitting with me in the firehouse on this episode of 'The Firehouse' on WRHU 88.7 FM, is none other than Cameron Peek, a distinguished firefighter from Uniondale Fire Department's Brookside Company 2. Today, Cameron takes us inside the life of a modern-day hero, sharing the highs and lows of firefighting, the intense camaraderie among the crew, and the profound sense of duty that drives him. We'll hear firsthand about the adrenaline-pumping moments of rescue operations, the critical importance of fire safety education, and the personal sacrifices made by firefighters. Cameron's stories illuminate the courage, strength, and compassion it takes to serve in this vital role. Join us for a heartfelt journey into the life behind the badge, where bravery and bond forge the frontline of our community's safety."

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Kenny Gass. A lifelong servant of his community, Kenny Gass has dedicated over 27 years to the Westbury Fire Department, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. After graduating from Carle Place High School and earning an associate degree in Business Administration from Nassau Community College, Gass joined Hose Company No. 1 in 1997. He quickly rose through the ranks, serving as instructor, lieutenant, captain, and assistant chief before being elected Chief of Department, a position he held for 6 years.

Gass's commitment to public service extends beyond the fire department. In 2003, he was sworn into the FDNY, graduating the academy and serving at Engine 309 in Brooklyn. He later transitioned to law enforcement, attending the Westchester Police Academy and joining the Old Westbury Police Department, where he was recently promoted to Sergeant. Gass also serves as the Police Department's Training Sergeant and as a 2nd Deputy Chief Instructor at the Nassau County Fire Academy.

Gass's lifelong dedication to his community was recognized in 2019 when he was elected to the Carle Place Water Commission. Despite a serious injury in 2024 that left him with burns over 15% of his body, Gass has continued to tirelessly serve the people of Long Island through his roles in fire, police, and local government.