Syosset Participates in Fifth Battalion Parade

Nassau’s fifth battalion of firefighters marched in its annual parade Saturday in Bayville.

The parade included the fire departments of Bayville, East Norwich, Glen Cove, Glenwood, Locust Valley, Sea Cliff, Roslyn, the Roslyn Highlanders, Oyster Bay and the Oyster Bay Atlantic Steamers.

The firefighters began marching at 7 p.m. from Mountain Avenue to Centre Island Beach. Each department had its own musical unit and was judged according to uniform, marching stance, cleanliness, and presentation.

“The eleven battalions are a close knit group," Event chairman John Doyle said. "It helps with camaraderie. It culminates after the parade where everyone comes together and celebrates work and friendship."

“It’s a great thing," Syosset fireman Roy Brouillard said. “The public sees their local firefighters, both young and old, with no fire emergency.”

 The first parade occurred in the 1960's and is held in a different town each year. Bayville hosted it for the 6th time and will again in 2022 for the town’s 100th year anniversary. Firefighters dress in their class-A uniforms, inspect their vehicles for cleanliness, and abide by the parade guidelines.

“It’s a great way to recognize the local fire department and all that they do," said Bayville resident Allison Meyer. "The turnout just shows the support they have. The large presence here reinforces the community’s support.” 

A drill competition was held earlier that day where the departments competed in events that tested their firefighting skills with ladders, hoses, and buckets. The Roslyn Highlanders took first place in the drill, followed by Oyster Bay, the Oyster Bay Atlantic Steamers, and Glenwood.

 “The drill is exciting, old-fashioned, and not motorized," said Syosset’s ex-police chief Richard Meinhardt.

The parade ended with a block party where food, beverages, and t-shirts were sold. Labor Day raffle tickets were also sold for $20 each, and The Little Cigar Factory sold different flavored cigars.  

South Shore Band Flashback performed classic ‘60s and ‘70s music. Popular songs included “Black Magic Woman” by Santana; “The Letter” by Joe Cocker; and “Long Train Running” by the Doobie Brothers.

Glenwood Fire Company was declared best overall in the parade and won for best appearance Color Guard and 50 and under. Bay Shore won for best appearance musical unit, and East Norwich won for best appearance juniors. Bayville won for best appearance over 50.