Thank your firefighters, come to the parade!

All 16 fire departments
to march

Everyday heroes in the community serve wholeheartedly, albeit quietly. On Saturday, Aug. 10, at 6 p.m. is a chance to give back to those who donate their time and ultimately risk their lives for the safety and strength of the community by attending the Islip Town parade, which will run on Montauk Highway from West Sayville Fire Department to Sayville Fire Department.

At the conclusion of the parade, attendees are invited to a block party at Sayville fire house (107 North Main Street), where there will be food trucks, Roxy’s ice cream, and libations.

Children can enjoy a bounce house, rock climbing, and other age-appropriate games.

Hi-Tide, who boasts a member in the fire department, will be performing live at the site.

The Islip Town parade had been an annual tradition to gather fire departments in a celebration of volunteerism and commitment to community that was over 100 years old.

The last parade was in 2018 and had been shuttered due to the pandemic.

This past year, the Sayville Fire Department worked diligently to bring back the tradition and with all 16 districts in the Town of Islip joining in—over 1,000 firefighters/EMS, 75 vehicles, and 13 marching bands.

Co-chairs Rich Maddox and commissioner Mark Schmittzeh began ironing out logistics for the parade and block party in November.

“They really stepped up to take care of putting this together,” said chief, Craig Fazio. “It will be a great time and they kept the legacy going. The committee members, the officers cannot be thanked enough for making this event happen.”

“A lot of times the only way firefighter families get together is at funerals, and this is a way to celebrate each other with a triumphant event,” said Fazio.

This year’s deputy grand marshal holds a special place in the Town of Islip fire community, as Kristina Moon tragically lost her husband, William, in the line of duty in 2022. This was the second casualty faced by the Islip Fire Department after firefighter Jesse Gerhard. Gerhard’s family was also invited to serve as deputy grand marshal, but had a conflict of schedule.

Fifty-year veteran Don Corkery, who is grand marshal, said, “What she has been able to do with starting her foundation and the charity work has been amazing, and we could not be prouder of having her serve as deputy grand marshal.”

Neighboring fire departments from Babylon and Brookhaven towns will handle calls to the 16 participating districts while they march in the parade.