Senator Flanagan Honors St. James Veteran

Senator John J. Flanagan (2nd Senate District) recently had the privilege of presenting Mr. Edward Springer as his 2016 honoree for induction into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame.  Mr. Springer joined Senator Flanagan for a special ceremony in Albany during which he was honored for his service to his country during the Vietnam War and for his community efforts since his honorable discharge.

Mr. Springer, of St. James, has spent the majority of his life dedicating himself to his community, his county and his country.  In 1972, he joined the United States Army to serve in the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War.  After serving his nation, he was honorably discharged in 1975 with the rank of Sergeant.

Returning home in 1975, he rejoined the St. James Fire Department, where he began his service in 1971 at age 18, ultimately leading to his becoming Chief in 1988 and serving as the President of the fire department.  Since joining the St. James Fire Department, he has continually served his fellow residents in numerous ways for over 45 years including over 25 years as an Emergency Technician.

In addition to his volunteer efforts, Mr. Springer has also spent 40 years dedicating himself to Suffolk County residents.  He began his career as a Northport VA hospital firefighter in 1976 and was named Chief in 1984.

In 1988, he switched over to the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services as a Fire Marshal.  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 until he retired in January 2016.

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

Mr. Springer and his wife, Therese, are the parents of current St. James Fire Department Chief Edward Springer, Jr. and his wife Christine; and daughter Christine Amato and husband Anthony Amato.  They are also the proud grandparents of six.

“It is my privilege to recognize Mr. Springer for his efforts in our community as well as his service to our nation.  He is truly a man who has embraced community service and his efforts have left an indelible mark.  He is most assuredly deserving of this honor and it is my hope that this will in some small way reflect how appreciative we are of all of his efforts on our behalf,” stated Senator Flanagan.