Vanguard Engine Company

“The Southbound Express”

Stationed at: West Islip Fire Department – Station 1
Address: 127 Watts Place, West Islip, NY

Line Officers

• Captain: Ryan O’Hora

• 1st Lieutenant: Greg Iskra

• 2nd Lieutenant: Steven Mirrione

• Treasurer: John Heuser

• Secretary: James Cameron

Company History

The West Islip Fire Department was founded in 1951 through the efforts of Lou Schwartz, his wife, and his mother, who recognized the community’s need for organized fire protection. With the support of neighbors, Engine Company 1 and Engine Company 2 were formed. These two original companies laid the foundation for today’s Vanguard Engine Company, officially established in 1958.

Initially, the fire apparatus was stored in a repurposed barn on Horton Street - formerly the stable top from the Guggenheimer estate - relocated to the Schwartz property. Without modern infrastructure, early members heated the barn with a kerosene stove and maintained access to water by chopping ice on Guggenheim Lake. This dedication earned them the nickname “The Ice Choppers.”

As the department grew, property was acquired at Watts Place and Udall Road, where Station 1 was constructed. This station eventually became home to not only the two engine companies, but also the newly formed Hook and Ladder Company and Utility Company. With the expansion into the community’s southern section, Engine 1 and Engine 2 merged to form a single company. After thoughtful consideration, the name Vanguard Engine Company was adopted in 1958, symbolizing leadership and forward momentum. In 1972, Vanguard merged with the Utility Company.

Today, Vanguard Engine Company continues to uphold its legacy of service and innovation at Station 1. The company maintains an average membership of 40 active firefighters and houses multiple frontline apparatus.

The company emblem - featuring a Roman helmet over a traditional pumper - was created by the brother of Ex-Chief Bob Irvine and adopted in 1975.

Among Vanguard’s most distinguished members is Ex-Captain George Reilly, badge #6, the department’s most senior member. George stands as a living link to the department’s origins and is expected to become West Islip’s first 50-year member.

Apparatus

3-17-1

• Model: 2006 Pierce Lance

• Pump Capacity: 1500 GPM

• Crew: 9-man enclosed cab

• Special Features:

  • TAK-4 Independent Front Suspension

  • 750-Gallon Booster Tank

  • 50-Gallon Foam Tank with Integrated Foam System

  • Combination Hurst Cutter/Spreader

  • Fully equipped for structural fire suppression

This is the company’s primary response engine for fire alarms and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) in the West Islip area.

3-17-2

• Model: 2012 Pierce Quint

• Pump Capacity: 1500 GPM

• Crew: 9-man enclosed cab

• Special Features:

  • 750-Gallon Booster Tank

  • 50-Gallon Foam Tank with Integrated Foam System

  • Extensive Heavy Rescue Equipment

3-17-2 is designated as a rescue engine and is the company’s lead apparatus for FAST Team activations.