"They are available to protect us at a moment's notice, whether it is a rescue from a house fire, car accident or a medical emergency," Supervisor Kate Murray said during the Town's 2003 Firematic Awards ceremony Oct. 8. "Firefighters are performing a vital function in our communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

Among those feted this week were Chief Robert Kloepfer of the Floral Park Fire Department, ex-Chief G. Michael Godfrey of the South Floral Park Fire Department and ex-Chiefs James Kelly and Michael Powell of the Stewart Manor Fire Department.

The Floral Park Fire Department is a better and more efficient department because of the efforts of Chief Robert Kloepfer, who has been a member of the fire staff for the past five years and has served in the department since 1985.

"Through his experience and his understanding of firefighters' needs, Chief Kloepfer has helped implement new procedures and technologies to ensure the safety of all department members," Supervisor Murray said. Chief Kloepfer earned a 2003 Firematic Award for his outstanding leadership and management skills and for his devotion to duty.

Ex-Chief G. Michael Godfrey of the South Floral Park Fire Department has dedicated his life to the cause of fire prevention. His commitment to the safety of residents has been a motivation to develop training programs and materials intended to fine-tune the skills of his fellow firefighters. Additionally, Ex-Chief Godfrey has spearheaded grant proposals, which have added new and improved equipment. He has partnered with local departments in obtaining up-to-date communication equipment, which has enhanced the efficiency of the South Floral Park Fire Department.

"Not only does he work closely with the firefighters in his department, he also has a passion for children and fire safety. In fact, he has educated local children on the ever-important subject of fire prevention," Murray said. "His concern and devotion inspire him to help wherever and whenever he can." The Town of Hempstead also bestowed a 2003 Firematic Award to Ex-Chief Godfrey.

In the 12 years ex-Chief James Kelly has served with the Stewart Manor Fire Department, he has been a line officer, deputy chief and was elected chief on two separate occasions. He currently serves as the fire commissioner for the Village of Stewart Manor. His help to the department while in this position has been nothing short of outstanding.

"Jim's expertise resides in the medical area and his current position is EMT paramedic," Murray said. "Jim is a true professional in everything he does. He has worked on various committees over the years and is currently on the fundraising, grant writing, infections control and machine committees." For his active involvement in fire service and his high level of professionalism, Ex-Chief Kelly also received a 2003 Firematic Award.

Ex-Chief Michael Powell has been a member of the Stewart Manor Fire Department for over 25 years. In this time he has served as line officer, deputy chief and chief. Throughout his career in fire service, Ex-Chief Powell has achieved numerous awards. For 15 years, he was an EMT and his work earned him the department's Life Saver Decoration. During his tenure as chief, he responded to a cardiac arrest call at the Stewart Manor Country Club, performed CPR and revived the victim. Ex-Chief Powell also received the Stewart Manor Village Award for his service to the community.

"Mike has been involved with every committee in the department during his 25 years of service and he continues to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter," Murray said. Ex-Chief Powell also earned a 2003 Firematic Award.

"What makes the activities of our talented and dedicated men and women so compelling is the fact that they volunteer, giving of their personal time, to ensure that some 760,000 Town of Hempstead residents are safe. Our honorees perform awe-inspiring rescues, safeguard property and educate on fire safety without thought of compensation or recognition," Murray concluded.