Freeport Fire Department - Christopher Burkart on "The Firehouse"- WRHU 88.7 FM S5 EP4

02/20/25 • 40 min

"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.

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Westbury Fire Department - Kenny Gass on "The Firehouse"- WRHU 88.7 FM S5 EP3

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.

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Mineola Fire Department - Steve Lampert on "The Firehouse"- WRHU 88.7 FM S5 EP5

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Steve Lampert. Steve Lampert has dedicated the past three decades to protecting his community as a firefighter. Following in his father and uncle's footsteps, Lampert currently serves as 2nd Lieutenant of Engine Company 1 in the Mineola Fire Department, drawing on over 30 years of experience in the fire service. Prior to his current role, Lampert spent 22 years as an EMT, serving communities across New York City and beyond. A true believer in the power of volunteer service, Lampert continues to find fulfillment in his work and looks forward to many more years of safeguarding his neighbors.