Friday, March 29, 2024
The Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center displays the history of volunteer firefighting in Nassau County, and provides education about fire safety and prevention. The funds raised at the Badge of Courage Celebration — which honors community members for their efforts and support of fire safety, prevention and education — will assist the museum in supporting educational programs and demonstrations, updating displays and interactive exhibits and acquiring new equipment, props and memorabilia.
The 10,000 square-foot facility is at One Davis Ave. by Charles Lindbergh Boulevard (“Museum Row”) in Garden City. Visitors can experience the tradition of local volunteer firefighting firsthand with hands-on exhibits that feature antique and contemporary fire apparatus and gear — and kids can have fun learning about fire safety. Visit NCFireMuseum.org or Facebook @NCMuseum for more information.
Source: The Nassau County Firefighters Museum
A 65-year veteran of the North Bellmore Fire Department will be honored at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center’s annual Badge of Courage Celebration on Oct. 18. Allen Walther, of North Bellmore, who served as chief and commissioner during his tenure, will be inducted into the museum’s Wall of Fame for his contributions to the museum and the local fire service.
Walther died on June 3, a day after his 63rd wedding anniversary. He was 83.
Each year, the museum honors community members for their efforts, and their support of fire safety, prevention and education. Walther’s addition to the Wall of Fame is particularly fitting since he headed the museum’s restoration committee when it first opened, and restored many of the pieces now on display himself.
“He was in charge of a crew of about 10 guys who restored everything from trucks to equipment,” said Angelo Catalano, chairman of the museum board and a 60-year member of the NBFD. “He was interested in saving the heritage of the volunteer fire service and putting it on display.”
Walther joined the NBFD in 1954, at age 18. He primarily served with Smithville South Hook, Ladder & Engine Co. No. 1, moving up the ranks from lieutenant to captain to deputy chief. He became chief of the department in 1973, a year before his 25-year stint as commissioner began. He also served as an advanced emergency medical technician, instructing younger members, performed in the department’s drum and bugle court, played on its softball team and raced with its drill team, the Rinky Dinks.
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