Senate Resolution No. 2338

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 120th Anniversary of the West
Winfield Fire Department on April 6, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those organizations which, through their dedication and selfless
service, have made enduring contributions to the safety and well-being
of the citizens of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and fully in accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 120th Anniversary of the West Winfield Fire Department,
also known as the Henry Hiteman Engine and Hose Company, to be
celebrated on the occasion of its founding on April 6, 1906; and

WHEREAS, For 120 years, the members of the West Winfield Fire
Department have faithfully answered the call of duty, providing fire
protection, emergency response, and lifesaving services to the residents
of the Village of West Winfield, the Town of Winfield, and neighboring
communities throughout the region; and

WHEREAS, The West Winfield Fire Department was established in 1906
following the vision and leadership of local residents who recognized
the need for an organized fire protection service after witnessing the
devastating effects of a local business fire; and

WHEREAS, Through the determination of community members and the
leadership of its first Chief, Norman Churchill, the department was
successfully organized and has remained a vital institution within the
community ever since; and

WHEREAS, A generous contribution from local businessman Henry
Hiteman provided the department's first significant firefighting
equipment, inspiring the organization's enduring name, the Henry Hiteman
Engine and Hose Company; and

WHEREAS, Through fundraising efforts, volunteer commitment, and
community support, the department constructed its first firehouse in
1910, expanded its facilities in 1970, and in 1992 opened the modern
fire station that continues to serve as its headquarters today; and

WHEREAS, Over the course of its distinguished history, the West
Winfield Fire Department has evolved from hand-drawn apparatus to a
modern fleet of firefighting, rescue, emergency medical, and support
vehicles, ensuring that its members are equipped to meet the challenges
of an ever-changing emergency response environment; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its 120 years of service, generations of
volunteer firefighters, emergency responders, officers, and community
leaders have dedicated countless hours to protecting lives and property,
often placing themselves in harm's way for the benefit of others; and

WHEREAS, The members of the West Winfield Fire Department have
demonstrated an unwavering commitment to professionalism, training,

public service, and community involvement, earning the respect and
gratitude of the residents they serve; and

WHEREAS, Today, under the leadership of Chief Al Moxham Jr. and the
department's dedicated officers and members, the West Winfield Fire
Department continues the proud traditions established by its founders
while preparing for the challenges of the future; and

WHEREAS, The 120th Anniversary of the West Winfield Fire Department
provides a fitting opportunity to recognize the countless men and women
who have served the department since 1906 and to celebrate a legacy of
courage, sacrifice, and service that has strengthened the community for
generations; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 120th Anniversary of the West Winfield Fire Department
and the Henry Hiteman Engine and Hose Company, honoring its remarkable
history and celebrating 120 years of dedicated service to the people of
the Village of West Winfield, the Town of Winfield, and the State of New
York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the officers and members of the West Winfield Fire
Department in recognition of this historic milestone and their
extraordinary service to the community.