VIDEO: It was a historic moment that captivated hundreds in Paterson, N.J., as Alejandro Alicea became the city’s first Hispanic Fire Chief.
“It’s just an honor for me and I am humbled by the appointment,” said Alicea. As Puerto Rican flags waved in the halls of the Paterson Fire Headquarters, the longtime firefighter stood tall and stoic as he accepted his newest challenge. “Our culture has come a long way, our people have come a long way,” said Alicea. “But we have Puerto Ricans and Hispanics in general in every facet of every agency throughout this city. I’m just in a long line of Puerto Ricans and Hispanics to fulfill another position with honor.”
Born and raised in Paterson, N.J., Chief Alicea is a veteran of the National Guard and became a firefighter shortly before 9/11.