Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today announced $134,443 in federal funding for the Darien Volunteer Fire Department. The grant was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), which is designed to help first responders improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.

“Our first responders routinely risk their lives to protect us,” Congressman Collins said. “The least we can do is provide them with the equipment, training, and funding they need to do their jobs. This grant funding will help create more efficient and effective first responders, and I am honored to help the Darien Volunteer Fire Department secure this vital funding.”

“This $134,443 in AFG funding will help our Department purchase new SCBA Air Packs,” said Chief Joe Marino of the Darien Volunteer Fire Department. “It is crucial that our Department has these pieces of basic equipment to keep us safe as we protect the Darien community. We look forward to working with Congressman Collins in the future as he continues to work on behalf of our local volunteer fire departments.”

This federal grant will allow the Darien Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Air Packs. This will provide the volunteer firefighters with breathable air whenever they are in an “immediately dangerous to life or health” atmosphere.

The AFG Program provides direct funding assistance to first-responder organizations to obtain much needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles and training.

Among the highlights of Friday's installation dinner for the Darien Volunteer Fire Department was the recognition of William Brunea for his 60 years of dedicated service to the department. Joining Brunea was his wife of 65 years, Irene.

Jeffrey Luker was named Firefighter of the Year.

Becca Neeland received the department's annual scholarship, which was presented by Cheryl Furlong.

The line officers sworn in Friday were Joseph "China" Marino Jr., chief; Jeffrey Luker, 1st assistant chief, David McGreevy, 2nd assistant chief, Mark Starczewski, 3rd assistant chief, Kenneth Fisher, fire captain, Paul Redden, fire lieutenant, William Brunea, fire police captain, and McGreevy, mechanic.

The department responded to 308 calls in 2014.

It currently has 39 active members, three probationary active members, 14 associate members, two active life members and 19 retired life members, for 77 total membership.