VIDEO/PHOTOS: A Rockland man believed to be the longest serving firefighter in New York State celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday.
Things were a lot different 80 years ago when Amiel D'Auria first volunteered for the Chelsea Hook and Ladder Company in Nyack.
"We had to be right up in front of everything," said D'Auria. "In those days, when you went up the ladder you couldn't talk to the driver or anything. If you had any trouble you used to have to swing back and forth." Remarkably, the great-grandfather is still very active in the fire department.
"I love to get on and help the guys all the time. When I was 90 years old I would still go to a fire."
Company members say D'Auria is now the longest serving volunteer firefighter in New York State and on Sunday, they celebrated their honorary battalion chief for his 100th birthday.