St. James Volunteer Fire Department

06/20/2026

This weekend we celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who lead with strength, kindness, and dedication. Thank you for the example you set and the love and support you provide each day.

A special thank you to the fathers who serve and protect their communities. Whether answering the call as firefighters, EMS providers, law enforcement officers, military members, or other first responders, your commitment to both your families and your communities is truly appreciated.

06/19/2026

Training Night with St. James Fire Department

Last night, the St. James Fire Department turned up the heat — in the best way. Firefighters gathered at the Yaphank training center for a hands‑on session focused on teamwork, precision, and staying sharp for every call that comes our way. We were joined by members of the Nesconset Fire Department as well as the Nissequogue Fire Department.

Crews practiced hose line operations, search techniques, and real‑world scenarios that test both skill and communication. Newer members learned from seasoned veterans, and everyone walked away stronger, faster, and more prepared to protect our communities.

Training never stops — because when the alarm sounds, our volunteers are ready.

06/18/2026

Today, members of the St. James Fire Department joined the 5th graders of Mills Pond Elementary School as they celebrated their move up to middle school.

One of the highlights of this special day is the annual wet down, a tradition the students look forward to each year. Smiles, laughter, and plenty of water made for a memorable afternoon.

A great time was had by all, and we’re still not sure who had more fun—the kids or the firefighters! Congratulations to all the students, and best of luck as you begin this exciting next chapter.

06/17/2026

06/09/2026

This Flag Day, join the Town of Smithtown and the St. James Chamber Of Commerce NY as we host the inaugural Avenue of Heroes Dedication Ceremony, alongside VFW Post 395, Sherwood Brothers American Legion Post 33, the St. James Volunteer Fire Department, banner sponsors, families, friends, and neighbors.

It’s a beautiful day to honor the veterans and active-duty service members whose courage and sacrifice have strengthened our community and nation.

📍 Burke Veterans Memorial Park
📅 Sunday, June 14, 2026
⏰ 2:00 PM

Following the ceremony, families are invited to stroll Lake Avenue, find their banners, and celebrate our hometown heroes.

06/09/2026

This past Sunday morning, members of the St. James Fire Department gathered for hands-on training focused on hose line techniques and advancement. Senior firefighters worked side-by-side with some of our newest members, sharing knowledge, building skills, and reinforcing the fundamentals that are critical on the fireground.

Training like this helps ensure every member is ready to respond safely and effectively when called upon. We are committed to continual learning and preparation so that when our community needs us, we are ready to answer the call.

Are you interested in joining our amazing organization? Click on the link below to learn more about us.

https://www.stjamesfd.org/content/join/

06/05/2026

At our monthly department meeting this past Wednesday, the St. James Fire Department had the privilege of celebrating one of our own.

EMS provider Hailee Rannazzisi was honored by FASNY with the Gerald J. Buckenmeyer Memorial Scholarship, recognizing her outstanding academic achievements and her unwavering service to the community.

Hailee’s journey began in our Junior Fire Department, where her dedication and drive quickly stood out. Today, she continues that commitment as an extremely active member of our EMS Ambulance Company, responding to calls with professionalism and compassion.

Her service is more than personal — it’s part of a legacy. Hailee is a fourth‑generation volunteer with the St. James Volunteer Fire Department, proudly carrying forward a family tradition of helping others.

We are incredibly proud of Hailee for earning this well‑deserved honor. We look forward to hearing about your continued success in higher education.

Congratulations, Hailee — and thank you for your service to the St. James community.

06/02/2026

This past Saturday, the St. James Fire Department held its 104th Installation Dinner, celebrating our incoming and outgoing officers and honoring the outstanding members of each company.

Outgoing Chief Frank Sapienza was recognized with proclamations from our local, county, and state officials, as well as from President Trump, honoring his 11 years of dedicated service in the Chief’s office.

Congratulations to incoming Chief Danny Keegan and his 3 Assistants; Eric Orth, Ed Springer Jr and James O'Connell.

We proudly presented plaques of honor to members who went above and beyond throughout the past year. The evening also featured two distinguished recognitions: the Dr. Frederick Fischler Ambulance Award, presented to Olivia Marshall, and the Doug “O” Memorial Award, given in memory of Firefighter Douglas Oelschlager, who was lost on 9/11/2001. This year’s Doug “O” Award was presented to Past Chief Dave Mills for his continued leadership and dedication.

A heartfelt moment of the night was the special presentation to one of our youngest members, Jack Amato, recognizing his service as he prepares to attend Penn State for ROTC and continue his commitment by serving our country.

We extend our sincere thanks to the St. James Fire District for their hospitality and continued support.

05/26/2026

Today, the St. James Fire Department was proud to stand alongside our community in honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Their courage and selflessness will never be forgotten. We are grateful to have taken part in today’s memorial services as we remember and pay tribute to our fallen heroes.