Eight graduating University of New Haven members of the Allingtown Volunteer Fire Association were honored by West Haven Mayor Dorinda A. Borer for their commitment, bravery and dedication to protecting the people of Allingtown and the entire City of West Haven. Borer was joined by Fourth District City Councilor Gary Donovan.
Awardees included:
Firefighter Sophia Sullivan , Major: B.S. Criminal Justice (Investigative Services) Hometown: Lynbrook, NY; Firefighter Eunan Kirby, Major: B.S. Homeland Security & Emergency Management, Hometown: Boston, MA; Firefighter Sabrina Namigohar, Major: B.A. International Affairs, Hometown: Great Neck, NY; Lt. Mason Glines, Major: B.S. in Fire Science (Fire Investigation); currently completing a master’s degree in Emergency Management, Hometown: Dublin, California; Firefighter Joseph McNealus, Major: B.S. Health Sciences (Minor in Fire Science), Hometown: West Rupert, VT’ Firefighter Vanessa Connolly, Major: M.S. in Emergency Management, Hometown: Portland, ME; Firefighter Joshua Wilson, Major: B.S. Fire Science (Fire Administration), Hometown: Norwalk.
The Allingtown Volunteer Fire Association responds to incidents of all natures, including and not limited to structure fires, motor vehicle accidents, brush fires etc. They work with and supplement the City of West Haven Fire Department, Allingtown. They also respond to mutual aid calls for the West Haven Center District and the West Shore, whenever needed.
According to AVFA Chief John Carew,”This group of young volunteers has provided service to the Allingtown District with a savings of over $100,000.00 in labor cost to taxpayers over the last two years.”
The ceremony was also attended by City of West Haven Fire Department , Allingtown Chief Michael Terenzio, Deputy Chief Keith Flood, Center District Deputy Chief William Johnson, retired Naugatuck Fire Chief Walt Semens, Gateway Community College Fire Service Program Director Ronald Pisani, Jr. and former Allingtown Fire Chief Peter Massaro, family members and other supporters.
The average age of an Allingtown volunteer firefighter is 20 years old. The Association is also welcome to new members of all ages. Contact Chief Carew at: (203) 214-5535 for details.
The program has really grown from 2 UNH studets housed at the minor park station. It’s a great program and a bonus for the people of Allingtown.