June 10, 2011 -- County Executive Robert P. Astorino welcomed first responders to the annual Fleet Equipment and Demonstration Day at Rye Playland, noting that the event is vital to the county's emergency preparedness efforts.
"Fleet Day is a terrific opportunity for police, fire, EMS, DPW and other emergency personnel to come together to network and learn," Astorino said. "And this event plays a critical role in our county's overall emergency preparedness. If we are to respond to and recover from a major incident of any kind, it is critical that we all be aware of the vehicles, equipment and capabilities that exist throughout our county and region."
Fleet Day, held on June 10, is an annual event for police, fire, EMS, DPW and fleet maintenance personnel from Westchester and the region to network on equipment issues and get an overview of the assets that each has that can be utilized in the event of a major emergency.
Agencies displayed a variety of equipment from their fleets. Command vehicles, rescue trucks, fire apparatus, ambulances, the county police Aviation Unit helicopter, police motorcycles, dump trucks and other specialty vehicles were among the items that were on display.
The event opened with a procession of some vintage police and fire vehicles, including a 1956 military police car that Astorino took a ride in.
The county police Hazardous Devices Unit demonstrated the capabilities of its robot in handling bombs and other volatile devices. Canine, Marine and Aviation Unit demonstrations were also conducted during the day.
Public Safety Commissioner George N. Longworth and Emergency Services Commissioner Anthony W. Sutton presided over a wreath laying ceremony in memory of the first responders who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
Astorino said it was important to remember the sacrifice of all who lost their lives almost 10 years ago.
"We will never forget the terrible price that was paid by first responders, military personnel and innocent civilians. More than 100 of those we lost came from Westchester County. It is with sadness and respect that we remember all those fallen Americans – not only today, but always," he said.