Representing the Career Firefighters of the City of Clifton NJ Fire Department
FMBA 21 would like to congratulate Firefighter Miguel Cortes on his retirement after 25 years of dedicated service. We also thank him for his honorable military service to our country.
Best wishes for a happy retirement and continued success in all future endeavors.
Retirement Audio Clip from Clifton Fire Department Radio
Shovel Your Hydrant — It Matters
After a snowfall, please take a moment to clear the nearest fire hydrant.
If a hydrant is buried or frozen, firefighters may not be able to use it. If we can’t see it, we can’t use it. And if we have to go to the next hydrant — sometimes 500 feet or more away — fire suppression is delayed.
That delay can cost lives and property.
Shoveling a hydrant keeps it visible, prevents freezing, and helps firefighters get water faster when every second counts.
Today, members of the Clifton Fire Department family gathered for our annual Retirees Christmas Party—a long-standing tradition that brings together those who dedicated their careers to serving our community.
Tonight, the Clifton Fire Department proudly held its 39th Annual Awards Ceremony, honoring the dedication and service of our members and community partners.
Fire Chief Michael Rowan led the evening, with Firefighter Thomas Jacobus Committee Chairman. We were also blessed by Pastor Jeffrey Miller, who opened the ceremony with words of inspiration and gratitude.
Award Highlights:
Congratulations to all our award recipients for their commitment, courage, and continued service to the Clifton community.
Check out the award pamphlet for a full list of this year’s honorees.
The Second Annual Clifton Firefighter’s Foundation Golf Outing was another incredible success! This year’s event brought together firefighters, retirees, police officers, friends, and supporters for a day filled with golf, laughter, and camaraderie.
Not only did participants enjoy a spirited round of golf, but every swing also supported a greater purpose. As always, proceeds from the outing go directly toward the Foundation’s mission as a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, proudly giving back to charitable organizations throughout the City of Clifton.
The weather couldn’t have been better, the course was as challenging as ever, and the sense of community made the day truly unforgettable. From reconnecting with old friends to making new memories, it was a perfect mix of fun and fellowship.
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of our sponsors. We are deeply grateful to all of our sponsors and volunteers—your generosity and support are what make events like this possible.
Be sure to check out the event photos and relive the highlights from this special day. Here’s to another year of friendship, competition, and giving back!
Photos below are resized. Download from our DROPBOX LINK FOR PHOTOS: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/uds411llihphtzg5asdj7/ADraaEynxlVFl1pV7VYp-DE?rlkey=36kzinxuo1a4savec1e63c0yx&st=fbv8wezp&dl=0
The Clifton Fire Department proudly welcomed two new members today. City Clerk Kathleen Tolosi administered the swearing-in ceremony alongside Fire Chief Michael Rowan and Administrative Analyst Michael Onder.
The newest firefighters, John Gaspar and Carlos Marin, will complete in-house training over the next few weeks before attending the fire academy and EMT school.
Clifton FMBA 21 congratulates and welcomes them as they begin their service to the City of Clifton.
City Clerk Kathleen Tolosi administers the Oath of Office to Firefighter John Gaspar.
City Clerk Kathleen Tolosi administers the Oath of Office to Firefighter Carlos Marin.
Fire Chief Michael Rowan, FF Carlos Marin, FF John Gaspar, Administrative Analyst Michael Onder
FMBA 21 would like to congratulate LT Frank Yodice on his retirement after 30 years of service.
Good luck in your retirement and future endeavors!
Retirement Audio Clip from Clifton Fire Department Radio
Clifton FMBA 21 Takes 2nd Place at 2025 Army Tank Pull Challenge
On Sunday, June 8, 2025, Clifton FMBA Local 21 brought strength, spirit, and solidarity to the 15th Annual Army Tank Pull Challenge, hosted by the New Jersey Knights of Columbus and Catholic Charities.
With a full 20-member team, we powered through the competition and pulled strong with an outstanding time of 6.38 seconds! At the time of this post, we were ranked in Second Place overall. We also want to spotlight John Bednarz and Cody Bleaken, who impressed everyone by pulling the 80,000 lb tank in 24.97 seconds during the lowest weight category, with a combined weight of only 447 lbs. Incredible effort by both!
Beyond the competition, it was a day filled with great memories, strong bonds, and support for a cause that matters. We were proud to stand side by side with our brothers from Clifton PBA 36 at our tent, enjoying the camaraderie, cornhole games, and good vibes. Huge thanks to Chief Rowan and Deputy Chief Legates for their hands-on support that helped push us toward victory.
This event wasn’t just about muscle—it was about community, charity, and unity, and we were honored to assist in raising funds for such a meaningful cause. To everyone who showed up early, brought the family, helped rally the team, or just stopped by to cheer us on—you helped make the day special. And a final thank-you to the Knights of Columbus for organizing another phenomenal event.
Clifton Fire Department Promotional Ceremony
Today, the Clifton Fire Department proudly held a promotional ceremony honoring the dedication, leadership, and service of several outstanding members of the department.
Fire Chief Michael Rowan delivered an inspiring address, highlighting the department’s ongoing commitment to excellence and community safety. The following promotions were formally recognized:
Deputy Chief Jason Anzelmo
Deputy Chief Ronald Laube
Captain William Lauritano
Captain Douglas Wallace
Lieutenant Michael Jallad
Lieutenant Scott Sweeny
Lieutenant Robert Osieja
We congratulate all of these individuals for reaching this significant milestone in their careers. Their leadership, professionalism, and courage continue to strengthen the Clifton Fire Department and serve our community with pride.
Thank you for your service, and congratulations on your well-deserved promotions!
#CliftonFD #PromotionCeremony #PublicSafety #LeadershipInAction #CliftonStrong
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported Clifton FMBA 21’s Tricky Tray! From our amazing vendors to our generous supporters and dedicated volunteers, you made this event unforgettable. We appreciate each and every one of you, and we can’t wait to do it all again next year! See you in 2026!
