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

02/13/25 • 57 min

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

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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Uniondale Fire Department - Charlie Crayton on "The Firehouse"- WRHU 88.7 FM S5 EP2

Sitting with me in the Firehouse is Charlie Crayton. Charlie Crayton's journey to becoming the respected chief of the Uniondale Fire Department is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for serving his community. With 29 years of experience under his belt, Charlie has climbed the ranks, taking on every role from firefighter to captain, before stepping into his current leadership position. What makes Charlie's story unique is that he started his fire service career in his 30s, defying the norm of most volunteers and members who join in their teenage years. Despite this, Charlie has become a true role model, earning the admiration of his peers through his exceptional skills, steadfast commitment, and tireless efforts to protect the Uniondale community. As the esteemed chief, Charlie continues to lead with distinction, inspiring the next generation of firefighters to follow in his footsteps.

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

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.