Five emergency responders received 2026 fire and EMS awards from the Schenectady County Legislature earlier this week, according to an Oct. 16 county announcement.
The recipients, nominated by their respective departments, were recognized for their contributions to the community.
Two members of Niskayuna Fire District 2 received officer awards: Thomas Henery was named Fire Chief Officer of the Year, and Mike Gilmore was named Fire Officer of the Year.
Ed Kinne of the Beukendaal Volunteer Fire Department was named Firefighter of the Year. The department’s Joe Czerepak received the EMS BLS Provider award, while Thomas Schettine of the City of Schenectady Fire Department received the EMS ALS Provider award.
County Legislator Anthony Jasenski, chair of the Firefighting and EMS Committee, said the awards recognize responders for their commitment and service to their communities.