Riverhead Fire Department held its annual memorial service, roll call and inspection Sunday morning at department headquarters.
The service included prayers by the Rev. Mary Cooper, a reading of Psalm 23 by Riverhead Fire Department Chaplain Justin Winter, and a reading of the Firefighter’s Memorial Hymn by Ladies Auxiliary Chaplain Kathleen Berezny, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony members who died in the past year: longtime firefighters, Ex-Captain Bruce Edwards and honorary Ex-Captain Conrad Dabrowski Sr., and Ladies Auxiliary honorary member Marlene Iberger.
Edwards, a 53-year member, was a top responder, ex-captain of the Washington Engine Company, ex-captain of the Riverhead Ironmen and Fireman of the Year in 2003. He was also president of the Riverhead and Suffolk County Firemen’s Associations and the Suffolk County Parade and Drill Team. He answered his last alarm on Aug. 1, 2024 at age 79.
Dabrowski, a 59-year member, ex-captain of the Red Bird Hook and Ladder Co. No. 1, which named him firefighter of the year in 2014. He answered his last alarm on April 18, 2025 at age 87.
Iberger, longtime RFD Ladies Auxiliary member, died May 7, 2024 at age 95.
Following the candle-lighting ceremony, department members renewed their oath of service, administered by Chief Piotr Kurzyna.
Roll call and inspection followed, with refreshments for members and guests in the upstairs meeting roomafter the ceremony’s conclusion.
RiverheadLOCAL photos by Denise Civiletti
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