Editor’s note: This announcement was posted to the Facebook page of the Pelham Professional Firefighters Local 2213 on Feb. 26.

Last night more history was made in the Village of Pelham Fire Department.

For the first time in our history, a Captain is amongst our ranks. Lt. Benkwitt was promoted to the position of Captain. Lt. Benkwitt has 21 years of service with the PFD and is the senior Lt. He will be second in command of our department. Good luck Captain Benkwitt with your new role we look forward to working with you.

Two probationary firefighters were sworn in as well. In September we were awarded a SAFER Grant to allow us to enhance our staffing.

Our new “Probies” are both life long Pelham residents with deep roots in our community, Anthony Borsella and Christopher Paolercio we’re sworn in as the newest members of the Pelham Fire Department. The Probies start work in the firehouse for a month of in-house training before attending the Utica Fire Academy for 4 months. ⁣

Anthony Borsella a 2005 graduate of Pelham High School is the grandson of one of the original career firefighters and one of the founding members of Local 2213 George Cottrell. Anthony is an NYS EMT and is the son of Pelham PD K-9 Sergeant Anthony Borsella. ⁣

Chris Paolercio a 2004 graduate of Pelham High School, has worked in Pelham for over 10 years at a local plumbing business. Chris is a NYS EMT and has chosen to start his family here in Pelham. ⁣

Congratulations to all of you!