| Yesterday, the milestone of 50 years of service was celebrated in the quarters of Cataract Hose. Deputy Chief as well as current Commissioner Louis DiLoreto Jr. has served the OFD & Engine 97 since 1976. Family, Friends, and fellow 50 Year Members of the Department were among those in attendance to honor him for his years of service.
“Louie” served as Chief Engineer of the OFD in 1993 & 1994. He entered the Chief’s ranks in 1989 under then Chief Engineer the late William Brown Jr. This was one of if not the only time in Department history a company had two sitting Chiefs serve at the same time. Within his company, he has served in many positions. Lieutenant, Captain, President, Driver (also as Chief Driver), and previously as a Board Of Director. Currently he still serves as a Department Commissioner, possibly one of if not the longest serving in Cataract’s History.
On the department level, Lou has been involved in countless committees over his tenure. He has served on so many, we cannot even think or remember all of them. Louie was often found in the firehouse kitchen on many occasions as this being one of his favorite past times. Along with his bother Gary, they still serve their company and the department when they can. A true testament of the tradition of the OFD, serving our community.
If you didn’t know Lou through the Fire Department, you yourself or one of your family members might have met him while working the infamous Hot Dog Truck “Lou’s Wagon” at Route 9A & Route 134. There aren’t many from Ossining or the area in general that never grabbed a Chili Dog from Louie, his mother (the beloved Peggy), his father, or Mary (Lou’s Wife). A true staple in our community that spanned for more than 45 years.
Thank you Lou for your years of service to the Department & your company. Here’s to many more! |
