November 17, 2025 — Cutchogue Fire Department, The Southold Town Fire Chiefs Council held its annual Ex-Chiefs Dinner on Friday, November 14, bringing together current and past fire chiefs from across Southold Town for an evening of recognition, fellowship, and reflection. The event was hosted at the Hellenic Snack Bar in East Marion and served as a tribute to the leadership and service that continue to shape fire protection across the region.

The dinner united chiefs and past chiefs representing the 8th and 10th Division fire departments, including Orient, East Marion, Greenport, Southold, Cutchogue, Mattituck, Plum Island, Fishers Island, and Shelter Island. The Council meets regularly to strengthen interdepartmental cooperation and address shared challenges facing the fire service in Southold Town.

This year, 18 chiefs and past chiefs from the Cutchogue Fire Department attended the event, which was hosted by the Greenport Fire Department. Council President Norm Rielly Jr. of the Mattituck Fire Department led the evening’s program, which included formal recognition of past chiefs and special presentations honoring two long-serving fire service leaders.

Ex-Chief Warren Jensen of Greenport was recognized for 18 years of dedicated service as Suffolk County Deputy Fire Coordinator for Southold Town and the 8th Division. Ex-Chief James Lessard of Mattituck was honored for his continued commitment to the Southold Town Firefighters and the 9/11 Memorial at Cochran Park in Peconic, a project in which he played a key role from its creation through its ongoing care. Both were presented with plaques in appreciation of their lasting contributions.

The Cutchogue Fire Department extended its thanks to the Southold Town Fire Chiefs Council, the Greenport Fire Department, and the staff of the Hellenic Snack Bar for hosting a meaningful and memorable evening that celebrated tradition, pride, and dedication within the fire service.