The FDNY Foundation joined the FDNY on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, for a promotion ceremony at the Ocean Breeze Track and Field Facility on Staten Island.
At the ceremony, members of Fire Operations were promoted to the ranks of Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Supervising Fire Marshal, and Fire Marshal.
Additionally, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, who has served as an FDNY Chaplain for more than 25 years, was named the Department’s first Chief Chaplain — the first in the agency’s 160-year history.
“By now, I have done a bunch of these promotion ceremonies. Every time, I love this day even more,” said FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker. “There is nothing more gratifying to me than to see you all succeed. I look out among the companies, the banners, the signs and the audience, and I know all of you feel the same pride that I do. Today is a great day.”
Chief of Department John Esposito added: “Today is a proud day for you, your families and this Department. A promotion in the FDNY is never handed out; it is earned through years of studying, experience and training. Please do not forget that. Leadership in our Department is not about rank, and it is not a popularity contest. It’s about setting an example for those that look up to you and doing what is right. The way you communicate and the standards you set will shape the next generation of the FDNY.”
The FDNY Foundation congratulates all promoted members. We wish them continued success and thank them for their service, dedication, and commitment to protecting the people and the City of New York and for proudly representing the FDNY.