Century of support: East Meadow Ladies Auxiliary

The Ladies Auxiliary of the East Meadow Fire Department celebrated its 100th anniversary on June 15, in a dinner and ceremony that recognized the group’s storied history in East Meadow, and it’s decades of good work.

Founded in 1924, according to department’s website, the East Meadow Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary has played an indispensable role in supporting the volunteer firefighters of East Meadow. Comprised of wives, daughters, sisters, and mothers of firefighters, these women provided crucial support during major fires, serving hot coffee, cold drinks, and donuts to the firefighters.

As the years passed, the auxiliary’s bond strengthened, and they formed a parade group, marching proudly alongside the fire department. Their involvement grew with the formation of other organizations within the fire service, including the Nassau County Fire Service Ladies Auxiliary. They participated in various committees, from fundraising to election duties and installation dinners.

The auxiliary’s parade group garnered numerous trophies for best-appearing units, proudly wearing their red, white, and blue navy-style uniforms. In 1986, they won the New York State Championship in Parade competitions.

Notable achievements in the East Meadow auxiliary’s history include Fran Santoro’s election as President of the Nassau County Ladies Auxiliary in 1990, making her the first East Meadow woman to hold the position. Patricia Magnus Brown, a former president, was elected as Fire Commissioner in 1991, serving a five-year term. Both Brown and Phyllis Sperr became EMTs and achieved significant milestones within Rescue Company 5, with Sperr earning the Gold Pin for the most alarms answered over 15 consecutive years.

In 2003, Sperr received the Nassau County Fire Service award for “Outstanding Service.” Mary Messina, another past president, was elected president of the Nassau County Ladies Auxiliary in 2012. That same year, Santoro was honored with the NCLA “Member Achievement Award” for her 60 years of service.

In 2015, Jane McGee became President of the Nassau County organization, following a long tradition of leadership within the auxiliary. Lois Thomas marked a milestone in 2015 by becoming the first member to march for 50 years in the parade group.

Today, the auxiliary remains a vital part of the East Meadow Fire Department. They continue to provide essential support during fires, ensuring the well-being of firefighters with hot coffee in winter and cold drinks in summer. The East Meadow Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary has been a cornerstone of the community, offering unwavering support and contributing significantly to the success and longevity of the volunteer firefighters.

From offering both moral and physical support to the East Meadow Fire Department, and through many years of community engagement and volunteerism, the Ladies Auxiliary marks its 100th year, as it pushes ahead into the future — where it will continue to do all of its good work.