SOUTH SALEM, N.Y. - On Saturday, May 31, the Vista Fire Department proudly hosted its 2025 Annual Inspection Dinner at the Vista Firehouse. The annual event brings together department members, officials, and community supporters to celebrate the dedication and service of Vista’s volunteer firefighters and EMTs.
This year, several members were recognized for their exceptional contributions during the 2024–2025 service year, including Foreman Kyla Whalen (Firefighter of the Year), EMT Grant Vialardi (EMT of the Year), and Firefighter/EMT Candidate Pietro Cipriano (Rookie of the Year).
Foreman Whalen, who joined the department in 2019, is a Foreman, EMT, and former Rookie of the Year (2020–2021). She is currently a student at the University of New Haven, studying to become a certified paramedic, with plans to continue her career as a Firefighter/Paramedic.
EMT Vialardi, who joined in 2022, previously won Rookie of the Year (2023–2024). In 2024, he participated in 33 out of 38 department drills and responded to 177 out of 358 emergency calls, placing him in the top three for overall responses.
Firefighter/EMT Candidate Cipriano joined in February 2024 and quickly distinguished himself as a cleared driver for multiple apparatus while pursuing EMT certification. He attended 29 drills and responded to 150 calls, ranking among the top responders in his first year.
Two longstanding members were also recognized for their years of dedicated service: Firefighter/EMT Tom Ritchey (45 Years of Service) and Firefighter Martin Rojas (25 Years of Service).
Firefighter/EMT Tom Ritchey, affectionately known as “Fireman Tom” from his decades of Fire Prevention Week visits to Meadow Pond Elementary, has been a fixture in the Vista community since joining in 1980. He served as Vista Fire District #1’s District Manager for over 30 years and has also served as a police officer in Lewisboro and Pound Ridge. Ritchey remains a mentor to many and a symbol of commitment within the department.
Firefighter Martin Rojas, who joined in 2000, is known for his positivity and dedication both in and out of uniform. In addition to serving as a firefighter, line officer, and motor pump operator, he is a bus driver for the Katonah-Lewisboro School District and a valued member of the Vista community.
The department also honored top-performing crews with apparatus awards: Engine 142 (Best Fire Apparatus) and Ambulance 84B2 (Best Ambulance).
Engine 142 was led Lieutenant Dan Castelhano and Lead Foreman Ryan Ruggiero, with the rest of the crew consisting of Ex-Chief Jim Hackett, Firefighter Phil Katz, Firefighter Ron Egloff, Firefighter Steven Woodstead, Firefighter Jose Rosa, Firefighter/EMT Candidate Peter Cipriano and Probationary Firefighter/EMT Candidate Ashtin Rama. Ambulance 84B2 was led by Lieutenant Eleanor Hersam and Foreman Leslie Smith, with EMT Debbie Ferman, FF/EMT Tom Ritchey, Firefighter/EMT Ryan Huntsman, Firefighter/EMT Ben Bo, Firefighter Phil Wanderman and Probationary EMT Skyla Warren.
The Vista Fire Department extends its deepest thanks to all members who dedicated countless hours preparing vehicles and supporting the department's mission throughout the year. The Annual Inspection Dinner serves as a proud reminder of the department’s commitment to service and community, and Vista Fire District #1 is grateful to all members who continue to answer the call.
The Vista Fire Department is always looking for new members. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit www.vistafd.org
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