On Monday morning the second floor meeting room at Central Fire House was a bit cooler than the truck floor where the ceremony for four newly promoted lieutenants was originally to take place.
Greenwich Fire Chief Peter Siecienski noted that the large turnout likely reflected how long in the making the four promotions were.
Of the four men promoted – Mike Stanco, Christopher Povella, Dan Natale and Russell Paltauf – Siecienski said, “They represent the quality, expertise and commitment that each of the firefighters displays on a daily basis.”
Mike Stanco, who was hired by the department in September 2005, has a BS in Exercise Physiology from Southern Connecticut State University and certifications including: Fire Service Instructor, Fire Officer 2, Fire Marshal and EMT. He will be assigned as Lieutenant to Group 2, Engine 4 in Glenville.
Russell Paltauf joined the department in September 2006. He has a BA from Western Connecticut State University and certifications in Fire Service Instructor, Fire Investigator, and EMT. He will be assigned as Lieutenant in Group 3 Engine 4 in Glenville.
Chief Siecienski with newly promoted Lieutenant Chris Povella, with wife Melissa, children Christopher, Aiden and Caitlin. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
Christopher Povella was hired by the department in September 2000. He has an AS in Business Administration from SUNY Westchester. His certifications are as Fire Investigator and EMR. He will be assigned as Lieutenant Group 1 Truck Company at Headquarters on Bruce Place.
Newly promoted Fire Dept Lieutenant Daniel Natale with wife Donna, and children Dannu, Lena and Sydney. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
Dan Natale who in addition to certifications as a Fire Service Instructor, Fire Officer 2 and EMT. He received a BA in Construction Management from Connecticut State University.
Siecienski said Natale will be assigned to the Byram Station Number 3, which is not a coincidence.
“Byram station will be undergoing renovation this coming year,” Siecienski siad. “He’ll be putting his construction management to the test. He has been also participating in all of our station renovations and the construction of this building.”
First Selectman Peter Tesei said, “There’s no greater service that this municipality provides than life-safety services. It is a priority for me and the Town.”
“This action today has been in the process for a while. It’s the third attempt we’ve sought to have the positions elevated,” Tesei continued. “Those of you who give up – don’t. With perseverance, eventually you will prevail, particularly for young people, don’t give up.”
Lieutenant Mike Stanco with wife Kate and children Savannah and Jordan.
Assistant Fire Chief Robert Kick, First Selectman Peter Tesei, with newly promoted Fire Dept Lieutenants Daniel Natale, Russell Paltauf, Christopher Povella and Mike Stanco, and Fire Chief Peter Siecienski.
Dan Natale is congratulated by Peter Tesei after being sworn in as newly promoted Lieutenant at Greenwich Fire Dept. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
Pole at the fire station allows fire fighters to access their trucks downstairs in a snap. Photo: Leslie Yager
Cake from DiMare Bakery to commemorate the promotions of four lieutenants at Greenwich Fire Dept. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
First Selectman Peter Tesei congratulates newly promoted Lt. Dan Natale. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
Christopher Povella with wife Melissa, and children Christopher, Aiden and Caitlin. July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
Greenwich Fire Dept Chief Peter Siecienski at the promotion ceremony on July 16, 2018 Photo: Leslie Yager
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