FDNY promotes fire operations members, Chief Chaplain at ceremony on Staten Island

October 27, 2025

The FDNY held a promotion ceremony on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, at the Ocean Breeze Track and Field Facility on Staten Island.

At the ceremony, members of fire operations were promoted to the following ranks: Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Battalion Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Supervising Fire Marshal and Fire Marshal.

Additionally, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, who has been an FDNY chaplain for more than 25 years, was named the Department's Chief Chaplain. Rabbi Potasnik becomes the first Chief FDNY Chaplain 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," FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. "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 newly promoted members will be assigned to units throughout New York City.