MAHOPAC—The Mahopac Fire Department finally has its new home, dedicating its new firehouse on Route 6 at Croton Falls Road in Mahopac, Sunday.

More than 250 guests were on hand for the occasion that included federal, state, county and town officials as well as fire department representatives from the Putnam, Dutchess and Westchester area. The enormous two story firehouse took more than five years to complete and began its service on Labor Day.

The building was dedicated to “all members who have in the past, are presently and who will in the future, dedicate their lives to protect residents of this community.”

In his keynote address, State Senator Vincent Leibell, who secured a $100,000 member item from the state to pay for the new fire station’s state-of-the-art communication system said, “All Americans were blessed because of its emergency responders. Our volunteers come forward morning, noon and night. They are a family. Wherever you travel from Long Island to Buffalo, there is no group like the volunteer fire departments. EMS provides America’s homeland security.”

The occasion was “special” to County Executive Robert Bondi, a 15-year veteran of the Mahopac Fire Department. “We are a family who enjoy assisting others in need. Knowing that future generations will be serving out of this building makes the occasion extra special.”

Congressman John Hall echoed the spirit of camaraderie found within EMS providers throughout his vast 19th Congressional District.

Hall complimented the Mahopac FD for its foresight. “The membership has planned for the next generation by creating a structure that will last as the town grows and the needs of Putnam County grow,” he told the Putnam Courier.

The ceremony dedicated the fire station but the largest round of applause came when two of Putnam’s most senior volunteer firefighters were introduced. Art Brady, 100, an 82-year member of both the Mahopac and Mahopac Falls Departments and Victor Rossi, 90, a 59 year member of the Mahopac Fire Department, received a thunderous ovation for their dedication to the county’s EMS.