Honoring Andrew Matalone upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2026 Seaford Fire Department Keith P. Kern Member of the Year Award

Senate Resolution No. 2107

BY: Senator RHOADS

        HONORING  Andrew Matalone upon the occasion of his
        designation as recipient of the  2026  Seaford  Fire
        Department Keith P.  Kern Member of the Year Award

  WHEREAS,  The firefighters of New York State are renowned throughout
the Nation; their  reputation  is  synonymous  with  excellence  in  the
arduous field of fire protection and prevention; and

  WHEREAS,  Attendant  to  such  concern,  and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Andrew Matalone upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
2026 Seaford Fire Department Keith P. Kern Member of the Year Award; and

  WHEREAS, The Seaford Fire Department Keith P.  Kern  Member  of  the
Year  Award  is presented annually in memory of Lieutenant Keith P. Kern
to  recognize  a  member  who  exemplifies  the  highest  standards   of
dedication,  leadership,  service,  and commitment to the department and
community; and

  WHEREAS, This  award  honors  an  individual  in  the  Seaford  Fire
Department who not only demonstrates the qualities necessary to serve as
an  outstanding  firefighter  or  fire  medic,  but  also  embodies  the
character  of  a  dependable  teammate,  trusted  friend,  and  selfless
contributor to the good of the department and its members; and

  WHEREAS,  Andrew Matalone joined the department at just 18 years old
and  has  already  made  a  profound  and  lasting  impact  through  his
dedication, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to service; and

  WHEREAS,  Andrew  Matalone  has consistently responded to alarms and
trainings with enthusiasm, determination, and a strong desire  to  learn
and  improve  himself,  while  proving to be coachable, trustworthy, and
dependable; and

  WHEREAS, Willingly stepping forward as a  leader  among  his  peers,
Andrew  Matalone  continually  volunteers his time to support department
events, fundraisers, standbys, and other activities that strengthen  the
department and its mission; and

  WHEREAS,  The  Seaford  Fire  Department  has  had  the privilege of
watching Andrew Matalone rise through the Juniors  Program  into  active
membership,  inspiring  others to become involved while carrying himself
with humility, professionalism, and a positive attitude; and

  WHEREAS, Andrew Matalone has consistently demonstrated a  commitment
to  placing  the  residents  and  families of his community first, while
serving with pride, integrity, and dedication; now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
honor  Andrew Matalone upon the occasion of his designation as recipient
of the 2026 Seaford Fire Department Keith P. Kern  Member  of  the  Year
Award; and be it further

  RESOLVED,  That  a  copy  of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted  to  Andrew  Matalone  with  sincere  appreciation  for  his
outstanding  service,  leadership,  and dedication to his department and
community.