Smithtown, NY — The Smithtown Fire Department is honored to announce the renaming of its Main Meeting Room in memory of the late Father Daniel Bitsko, a cherished member of the department and the Smithtown community. The space will now be known as the Father Daniel Bitsko Meeting Room, commemorating his decades of service and lasting impact.
Father Dan joined the department in 1969 as a member of Hook & Ladder Company 1 and served in various capacities, including responding to fires, driving the ambulance, and then later responding directly to the scene as 4-2-29, providing direct support to emergency personnel and victims on scene. His dedication earned him recognition as a four-time Company 7 Firefighter of the Year and the prestigious 2006 Department Firefighter of the Year award.
Beyond Smithtown, Father Dan served as the Chief Chaplain of New York State and was chaplain for several organizations, including the Islanders and NASCAR. His commitment to service extended far beyond the firehouse, leaving a profound impact on countless individuals.
“Renaming this room is a fitting tribute to Father Dan’s legacy,” said Chief Timothy Duckham. “His life of service and care for others continues to inspire our work.”
Father Dan passed away in 2019, and many members of the department and township fire departments traveled to Coaldale, PA, to pay their respects. The renamed Father Daniel Bitsko Meeting Room will serve as a lasting reminder of his contributions to the department and the Smithtown community.
The dedication was announced at the monthly meeting of the Smithtown Fire Department on Monday December 9th. Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners Thomas Buffa presented the department with a shadow box containing Father Dan’s fire gear, as well as a plaque to be placed on the meeting room doors. Chief Timothy Duckham accepted the contents on behalf of the department and following brief remarks the announcement concluded with Monsignor Brian McNamara of St. Patrick’s Church offering a blessing for the room, plaque, and department members.
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