FDNY RETIREES
STATEN ISLAND DIVISION
Our History
The merger that brought our brotherhood together.
The Story of Our Organization
For over three decades, the FDNY Staten Island Retirees has represented the brotherhood of firefighters who have dedicated their lives to protecting the communities of Staten Island. Our story is one of unity, perseverance, and the enduring strength of firefighter brotherhood.
The Beginning
In early 1987, Staten Island's retired firefighters attempted to form an organization dedicated to the protection of benefits of retired firefighters and their spouses. Unfortunately, due to philosophical differences, it was decided to form two separate groups.
The first, FDNY Retirees, Staten Island Division, was presided over by retired Battalion Chief Tom Fawcett. The second, 10-75 Retired, Staten Island Chapter, was led by retired Firefighter John Sollazzo as its president.
Following Tom Fawcett's retirement, Retired Battalion Chief Carlo Andersen became president of the Staten Island Retirees.
Memorial Committee Formation
The groups continued separately until their merger in January of 1993. The merger was precipitated by the formation of the Staten Island Firefighters Memorial Committee in 1992, established at the request of Staten Island Fire Commander Eugene Dockter for the purpose of erecting a Memorial to the Firefighters who lived or worked on Staten Island and gave their lives in the line of duty.
The Committee consisted of three members from each group and two active firefighters:
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From the Staten Island Retirees: Carlo Andersen, Dan Peterson, and Frank Reinhold
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From 10-75 Retired: Bob Pace (as Chairman), John Sollazzo, and Jerry Huntzinger
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Active firefighters: F/F John Wegennar and Lt. Frank Cannizzaro
Merger Committee
It was apparent during the Committee's meetings that the differences of the past had dissolved, and the common interest of all of Staten Island's retirees was the paramount issue. A merger committee was formed with representatives from both organizations:
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From Staten Island Retirees: Bud Hennessy, Jack Lantieri, Charlie McKeever, Frank Murphy, and Joe Baeszler
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From 10-75 Retired: Bob Pace, Dom Carbonaro, and Ed Betts
The Committee met on ten separate occasions at Staten Island Fire Command Headquarters, working on a revised constitution and the logistics of the merger. Cooperation was outstanding at all levels, and the merger was a success.
The Merger
The merger was scheduled for January 1993, with both presidents co-chairing until an election would be held in March. The merged organization was named FDNY Retirees, Staten Island Division.
The first meeting of the combined groups, attended by approximately 200 members, was held at St. Teresa's Church Hall on January 21, 1993. Nominations for office were taken, with the election scheduled for March 18, 1993.
First Elected Leadership
At the March meeting held on March 18, 1993, John Sollazzo was elected as the first president of the combined groups, beginning a new chapter in the organization's history.
Memorial Dedication
The Staten Island Firefighters Memorial was dedicated in May 1993, standing as a testament to the collaborative efforts that brought the two organizations together.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, the FDNY Staten Island Retirees continues to serve as a vital resource for retired and active firefighters with ties to Staten Island. Our organization honors the traditions established by our founders while adapting to meet the changing needs of our members.
We remain dedicated to supporting our brotherhood, preserving our shared history, and serving our community with the same commitment that defined our careers in the fire service.
The Significance of Our Merger
The merger of our two founding organizations represents more than just an administrative change. It symbolizes the enduring strength of the firefighter brotherhood and our ability to overcome differences in service of a greater purpose.
Through the dedicated efforts of our founding members, we established a solid foundation that has allowed us to effectively advocate for our members, preserve our traditions, and honor those who have served before us. This spirit of unity and cooperation continues to guide our organization today.