EMS Members Promoted
Chief of EMS Abdo Nahmod is sworn in by Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano
and Chief of Department Edward Kilduff
It was a happy day for 34 members of the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) as they received promotions during a ceremony at the Fire Academy on Feb. 17.
"You're going to make us stronger than ever in the field," said Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano. "You're going to make this job even better than it already is."
Chief of Department Edward Kilduff added: "Promotions are a milestone - they mean the Department is moving forward. The Department is getting stronger, better today."
Among those promoted was Abdo Nahmod, who was sworn in as Chief of the EMS Command.
Chief Nahmod, appointed Chief of EMS on Jan. 5, has 25 years of service with the FDNY's Emergency Medical Service. He started his career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in 1986 and working his way up through the ranks to become Chief of Emergency Medical Dispatch in 2008.
He earned a Master's degree in Homeland Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security in Monterey, Calif., in March 2010.
He was recognized five times during his career for meritorious service.
Commissioner Cassano also announced that he is upgrading the role of Chief of EMS from a three to a four-star position, in recognition of the growing stature and importance of EMS, which responded to a record 1.26 million calls in 2010.
Division Chief Rosario Terranova and Deputy Chief Nancy Gilligan after the promotions ceremony.
Other promotions included: Jerry Gombo to Assistant Chief of Operations; Michael Fitton to Deputy Assistant Chief; Rosario Terranova and Janice Olszewski to division chief; and Captains John Sullivan, Phillip Chindelas and Nancy Gilligan to deputy chief.
In addition, 21 paramedics were promoted to lieutenant and five EMTs were promoted to paramedic.
"You are truly the future of this agency," said Chief Nahmod, moments after he was promoted. "I look forward to working with all of you."
All of the promoted members will be assigned to units throughout the five boroughs.