Senate Resolution No. 1833

BY: Senator MARTINS

CONGRATULATING Honorary Chief Michael Athenas upon
the occasion of his designation for special
recognition after 50 years of dedicated service to
the New Hyde Park Fire Department

WHEREAS, Citizens across our State and Nation are inspired by and
indebted to our noble volunteer firefighters who exhibit courage and
bravery every day in the course of their duties; and

WHEREAS, Volunteer firefighters exemplify the power of human
compassion and the strength of the American spirit through actions of
the most heroic magnitude; their sacrifices and their selfless
dedication merit the highest tribute and recognition by all citizens of
this great country; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate
Honorary Chief Michael Athenas upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition after 50 years of dedicated service to the New Hyde
Park Fire Department, to be celebrated at its 116th Annual
Installation-Inspection Dinner on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the
Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York; and

WHEREAS, Chief Michael Athenas has consistently demonstrated a level
of commitment, dedication, integrity, and professionalism which truly
exemplifies excellence in volunteer service; and

WHEREAS, Chief Michael Athenas was appointed to membership in the
New Hyde Park Fire Department on October 5, 1976, and has devoted five
decades of faithful and distinguished service to its ranks; and

WHEREAS, An active and valued member of Protection Engine Company
No. 2, he has served with distinction in numerous leadership and
operational roles, including Chief Driver, Second Lieutenant, First
Lieutenant, and Captain, earning the respect and admiration of his
fellow firefighters; and

WHEREAS, In 1977, he joined the New Hyde Park Fire Department Drill
Team, known as the Termites, and became a primary driver; demonstrating
extraordinary dedication, he continues to serve in this capacity today,
marking nearly 50 years as a committed and integral member of the team;
and

WHEREAS, Firefighters unwaveringly serve our great State with pride,
valor, and integrity; these respected volunteers are often the first to
respond to emergencies, whether fires, transportation accidents, natural
disasters, acts of terrorism, medical crises, or hazardous material
incidents; and

WHEREAS, It takes special dedication, a strong desire to help
others, and a tireless sense of community to forsake precious time with
family and friends to respond to the signal that a neighbor is in need;
Chief Michael Athenas is such a firefighter; throughout 50 years of
devoted service, this volunteer has performed above and beyond the call

of duty those responsibilities which define the task of fire protection;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Honorary Chief Michael Athenas upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition after 50 years of dedicated service
to the New Hyde Park Fire Department; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Honorary Chief Michael Athenas.