Youngstown Volunteer Fire Company installs officers

Story and photos by Terry Duffy
Lewiston Porter Sentinel, February 17, 2007

Fire Company Executive Officers and Line Officers take their
oath from Youngstown Mayor Neil Riordan (not shown).

Last Saturday was truly a special one for Youngstown Volunteer Fire Company members, as they celebrated both the milestone of 96 years of dedicated service to the community as well as the honoring of a very significant member of its fire fighting corps.

Youngstown resident Richard Kathan, who has been a fixture out at Youngstown Fire since the late 1940s, was recognized for his 55 years of service and dedication to the company. Throughout the evening, literally dozens of fire company members as well as many invited guests offered their tributes to this legendary fire company member. Notables such as state Sen. George Maziarz, Assemblywoman Francine DelMonte, County Legislator and Legislature Chair Clyde Burmaster of Ransomville, Town of Porter Supervisor Mert Wiepert, Village of Youngstown Mayor Neil Riordan and numerous others were on hand with tributes, commendations, proclamations and awards for this fireman elder.

DelMonte, who issued proclamations in Kathan’s honor not only from herself but also on behalf of Gov. Eliot Spitzer and U.S. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, spoke of the exceptional dedication to service the Youngstown Fire community, which has become a trademark of Kathan throughout his years. Over past decades, in addition to his being on call as an active member, Kathan has served filled such roles as financial secretary, 1949; recording secretary, 1955; treasurer, 1958; vice president, 1959-60; president, 1961-62; and trustee in the years 1959-61, 1963-65 and 1994-2004.

The Sentinel joins congratulating Kathan on his exceptional life of service to the fire company.

DelMonte leads members of the Ladies Auxiliary in their inductions. Assemblywoman Francine DelMonte delivered tributes from Gov. Eliot Spitzer, and U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton in her remarks to Richard Kathan.		County Legislator Clyde Burmaster, who also served as master of ceremonies for the event, delivered a proclamation from the Niagara County Legislature recognizing Richard Kathan. A packed firehall crowd offers a standing ovation to Richard Kathan as he receives his numerous honors.