Jersey City swears in 23 firefighters & promotes 11, hires 5 more police officers

The City of Jersey City swore in 23 firefighters and promoted 11, and also hired five more police offers, in two separate ceremonies this week.

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

“Promoting 11 of our own who have worked hard to keep our community safe coupled with the graduation of these 23 new firefighters further strengthens our fire department and reinforces Jersey City’s reputation as a leader in public safety,” Mayor Steven Fulop said in a statement.

“Our community deserves nothing less than the best, and these new and ranking firefighters exemplify the dedication, discipline, and courage it takes to protect and serve our city.”

Jason Kane was promoted to deputy chief, while Michael Mandriota, Miguel Rios, Joseph Menendez, Greg Fuehrer were appointed battalion chief, with Anthony Montagne, Sr., Christopher Pittaro, Jordan Lang, Nicholas Andreula, Herman Ortez, and Matthew Finnerty earning the rank of captain.

“The new recruits have successfully completed rigorous training and are prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from structural fires to medical emergencies,” added Jersey City Fire Chief Jack Johnson.

“These new firefighters are the latest recruits to join the department’s ongoing mission to provide the highest level of safety and service to the Jersey City community.”

Additionally, Public Safety Director James Shea lauded the police recruits who just graduated the academy.

“This is a very hard job to get, and it should be, because it is an important job. These new officers are joining the best police department in New Jersey, if not the country. We will make sure they have what they need to succeed and have the tools they need to have successful careers,” he noted.

“It’s a challenging job. You are going to enter the next phase with our Training Bureau where our field training program that is second to none. You will get the training you need to be the best police officer you can be,” declared Police Chief Robert Kearns.