Courtesy of Rensselaer County
It was the early 1960s when 16-year-old Lawrence Cooper of Nassau decided to join his hometown fire department, and was welcomed, somewhat uneasily at first, by the older members of the Village fire unit.
That started a lifetime of service for Larry, who today is still an active member, responding to calls, protecting people and property, and guiding younger firefighters on training and technique. Saturday, September 24, colleagues, friends, and family joined with residents to thank Larry for his service.
County Executive Steve McLaughlin presented a County commendation thanking Larry on behalf of County residents for his service. Also participating were Nassau Village Mayor Robert Valenty, Nassau Supervisor David Fleming, Schodack Supervisor Charles Peter, Legislators Scott Bendett and Tom Choquette, County Court Judge Debra Young, District Attorney Mary Pat Donnelly, and Schodack Councilman Jim Bult. Nassau Fire Department Chief Kevin Wood and others organized the event.
Larry’s service continues as does the service of his family, with his son Matt serving as president of the Nassau Fire Board of Directors.
