Bellmore, NY - During the Bellmore Fire Department’s evening department meeting, 1st Assistant Chief Danny Donovan and 2nd Assistant Chief James Constantin proudly presented Firefighter/EMT Katie O’Brien of Engine Company #2 with her new “salty” helmet shield.

The presentation, held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, marked an important milestone for O’Brien, as the new shield replaces the orange Probie shield she wore while completing her probationary training.

The moment was made even more memorable as the department was simultaneously toned out for a mutual-aid response to the North Bellmore Fire Department. Despite the call coming in during the meeting, the department took a moment to recognize O’Brien’s accomplishment.

The Bellmore Fire Department congratulates Firefighter/EMT Katie O’Brien on successfully completing her probationary training and earning her new helmet shield, marking another important step in her service to the department and the community.

Congratulations, Katie!