President
Growing up in Seaford, my love for the ocean began early and has shaped much of my life. I bought my first surfboard at 15, and after graduating high school in 1974, I passed the rigorous test to become a lifeguard at Jones Beach. My familiarity with waves and rip currents gave me a head start, but the experience taught me much more – especially the value of teamwork, among lifeguards from diverse backgrounds. That camaraderie would later prove invaluable in my next chapter.
In 1979 I join the FDNY, where I found a deep sense of purpose and brotherhood. I thrived in some of the busiest firehouses in the world, earning nine citations for bravery. I was promoted to Lieutenant in 1990 and Captain in 1997. One of the most defining moments of my career came on 9/11, when I led a 16-hour rescue operation that successfully saved two Port Authority police officers – the final survivors pulled from the rubble. I retired in 2002, just months before being promoted to Battalion Chief.
Retirement opened a new chapter of exploration. My wife and I travel to Islands and countries in search of the perfect wave and the richness of different cultures. We met at the beach, and today we’re proud parents of two grown children – both lifeguards, one still serving at Jones Beach – and grandparents to two ocean loving grandchildren.
The ocean has always been my compass, guiding me through a life of service, adventure, and family.
In the summer of 2024, while lifeguarding at Robert Moses, I had a vision of organizing lifeguards to go a step further and give back to the community who rely on us so much. Teaching water safety, expanding education, inspiring future generations of Lifesavers were a few ideas. That vision is now the Jones Beach Lifeguard Association.