Ed Springer

Edward Springer, of St. James, has spent the majority of his life dedicating himself to his community, his county and his country. Since joining the St. James Fire Department in 1971 at age 18, he has continually served his fellow residents in numerous ways – for more than 45 years. 

In 1972, during the Vietnam War, Mr. Springer joined the United States Army’s 101st Airborne Division. After serving his nation, he was honorably discharged in 1975 with the rank of Sergeant.

Returning home in 1975, Mr. Springer rejoined the St. James Fire Department. He was named Chief in 1988, and also served as the president of the fire department. Mr. Springer worked as an emergency technician with the department for more than 25 years as well.

In addition to his volunteer efforts, Mr. Springer has been committed to serving his Suffolk County community for more than 40 years. He began as a firefighter at the Northport VA hospital in 1976 and was named Chief in 1984. In 1988, Mr. Springer was named to the position of Fire Marshal with the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services. His efforts, which include running the only Suffolk County Arson Detection K9 program, led to his being named the Chief County Fire Marshal in 2011. He held that position through his retirement in January 2016. 

Though retired, Mr. Springer continues to serve his community as the Commissioner of the St. James Fire District. He is also Commander of the American Legion Post 1152 in St. James.

Mr. Springer and his wife, Therese, are the proud parents of St. James Fire Department Chief Edward Springer, Jr., who is married to Christine, and a daughter, Christine Amato, wife of Anthony Amato. Mr. and Mrs. Springer are the grandparents of six.