Centerport Fire Department Second Assistant Chief Andrew Stevenson, Paul Heglund, Commissioner Joe Williams, Ken Klerk, and Centerport Fire Department Chief James Varese.
Photo and text by Steve Silverman
Two Centerport firefighters were recently honored for achieving a combined total of 100 years of service to the Centerport Fire Department.
Ex-Chief Ken Klerk was recognized for 60 years of service and Ex-Chief and Chaplain Paul Heglund with 40 years. Heglund was also given the title of chief emeritus.
Both firefighters have had very successful firematic careers and came up through the ranks to serve as chief of the department. Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Joe Williams presented proclamations from County Executive Steve Levy to both men.
It is interesting to note that in 1968 when Heglund joined the department at the age of 18, Klerk was the chief. In addition, Heglund and Williams are both retired New York City firefighters, having served together at Ladder Company 58 in the Bronx during the 1970s and 1980s.