Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly, D-Huntington Station, a 33-year decorated member of the Deer Park Fire Department and a retired FDNY lieutenant, recently joined members of the Melville Fire Department to recognize Lt. David Hobart for his volunteer service.
At the Fire Department’s monthly budget meeting in Melville on Jan. 15 Donnelly surprised Hobart with a county proclamation highlighting his outstanding record and accomplishments and naming him the 17th Legislative District 2018 Firefighter of the Year.
A tireless volunteer, David Hobart has been a member of the Melville Fire Department for 43 years and recently retired as district manager, a position he has held for 35 years. He was also the top responder for 2018.
“For close to half a century, Lieutenant Hobart has continuously displayed remarkable bravery and a commitment to the community that is beyond compare,” said Legislator Donnelly. “As a retired member of the FDNY and a current volunteer firefighter myself, I know first-hand that this is a testament to his dedication to our community. It was an honor to recognize and thank him for his many years of exceptional service.”
Pictured center, Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly presents the 2018 Firefighter of the Year Award to Lt. David Hobart (center left) at the Melville Fire Department’s monthly budget meeting on Tuesday, January 15. Also pictured: Chief Chris Nolan (far left), Assistant Chief Bill Schmitt (center right) and Assistant Chief Dave Kaplan (far right).