Rockville Centre veterans honor our finest and bravest

Firefighters, police officers and EMTs were recognized for their service to the community at the annual Law and Order Night, hosted by American Legion Post 303.

“It’s one of the Post’s pinnacle events of the year, and it’s an event that we all look forward to as members of the American Legion,” Paul Casazza, the post’s vice commander, said. “Our post takes great pleasure in honoring our law enforcement and our emergency personnel for their continued dedication and service to the Rockville Centre community.”

Friends, family, colleagues, elected officials and guests were in attendance last Friday night as members of the veterans organization presented the honorees with special gifts including plaques, flags and engraved memorabilia.

Police Officer Alfred Robinson was the first honoree, recognized for his accomplishments over the past three years.

“In our line of work, we often talk about what it takes to be an exemplary officer,” Police Commissioner Randy Dodd said. “We think of commitment, courage, integrity and compassion. What does it look like when those qualities are embodied in one individual? It looks like Officer Robinson, who stands before us today not only as a recipient of the Rockville Centre American Legion Law and Order award, but as an example to all law enforcement officers.”

Robinson, who came to Rockville Centre as a lieutenant with the State University of New York Police Department, was assigned to the highway unit, which Dodd said is reserved for only the best and brightest on the force. Robinson’s dedication, skill and leadership led to his role as the lead training officer for the department.

“In a short span of time, this officer has gone from learning how to police in Rockville Centre to teaching how to police in Rockville Centre — from standing alongside his peers to now training them,” Dodd said. “That’s not just talent, that’s purpose, that’s passion, and that’s the kind of drive that transforms good officers into great ones.”

Robinson was presented with a custom-engraved firearm donated by Smith & Wesson, as well as proclamations from the village and the State Assembly.

“Being a police officer is something I always wanted to do,” Robinson said. “I grew up in a small town upstate, and I was fortunate to get a job with the SUNY police. I moved down here, met my wife in the police academy, so I ended up staying down here, and I always wanted to police in a close-knit community like I grew up in, and I believe I’m fulfilling my dream by working for this community, so thank you.”

Honorary Chief Carl Weeks, of the Rockville Centre Fire Department, was recognized for his seven decades of service. Weeks joined the Eureka Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company No. 1 on May 27, 1954, and then joined Woodland Engine Company No. 4 in 1962.

He wanted to take on a larger role, and was eventually elected second lieutenant, first lieutenant and, ultimately, captain, from 1969 to 1971. He also served as secretary, warden, chairman of the truck committee and chief chauffeur, training other volunteer firefighters how to drive and operate the department’s apparatuses.

Through the years, Weeks has continued to be a familiar face at department functions. His dedication earned him the title of honorary chief, and he was the grand marshal of the 2023 Nassau County Fire Parade.

“Carl was always looking to stay involved and help better his company and this department, whenever and however he could,” Woodland Capt. Kevin Kutcher said. “Even after 70 years of service to this department and to the village of Rockville Centre, Carl is one of the most active and dedicated members of Woodland. He still attends meetings and training, where he shares his vast knowledge that he has acquired through the years. Just as importantly, Carl still responds to a great number of alarms, always being the first member at the firehouse, so we can open the truck room door, so that our other members can respond more quickly and efficiently.”

Weeks was presented with an engraved ax that was mounted and framed.

“I want to thank Frank Colón and all the members of the American Legion for this honor,” Weeks said. “I would also like to thank the Rockville Centre Fire Department for all your time, effort, dedication and support. It’s been an honor working alongside each of you during my 70 years in the Fire Department.”

The final award of the evening was presented to members of Floodlight Rescue Company No. 1’s Information Technology team for its successful rollout of the Sansio Electronic Patient Care Reporting system, which will significantly enhance capabilities and improve patient care.

“The implementation of this advanced system marks a new era in our operations,” Floodlight Lt. Mike Woram said. “It’s not just a technological upgrade, it’s a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation.”

Woram explained that the EPCR system will help streamline processes, ensure accuracy and timely reporting, and ultimately save lives by providing health care professionals with what they need to give the highest standard of care.

He added that the achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication and expertise of the IT committee’s hard work, problem-solving skills and relentless pursuit of perfection.

“We have navigated the challenges, overcome the obstacles, and delivered a system that will serve our community for years to come,” Woram said. “To each member of the committee, I extend my deepest gratitude. Your contributions have not gone unnoticed, and today we celebrate you. Your work embodies the spirit of service and the pursuit of excellence that defines the American Legion.”