(above) Firefighter Anthony Holland was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on Wednesday July 29, 2020, becoming the first African American officer to serve the Linden Fire Department.
Linden Fire Department Promotion Ceremony
History was made outside the Linden Fire Headquarters on Wednesday, July 29th, 2020 as Firefighter Anthony Holland was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. With his promotion, Holland became the first African American officer in the 104 year history of the Linden Fire Department.
Holland has served on the Linden Fire Department for seven years, and ranked an impressive #5 on the State of New Jersey Civil Service Commission list of Fire Lieutenant’s for the City of Linden.
In recognition of this momentous event a socially distanced promotional ceremony was held featuring speeches by LFD Chief William Hasko, and Mayor Derek Armstead. Holland was also met by members of CBS News New York for a special interview regarding the importance of this milestone.
Growing up in the 4th ward of Linden, Holland’s goal is to be a positive role model for the young men and women of his community. Linden Fire Chief William Hasko Jr. had nothing but praise when he spoke about Holland at the ceremony.
“I’m extremely proud of Firefighter Holland and could not think of a better person to have the honor of being the first African American Officer in the Linden Fire Department. Anthony has paved the way and set the bar for those wanting to follow in his footsteps,” said Chief William Hasko.
Holland was accompanied by his wife, children, and fellow firefighters while swearing into his new position; also in attendance was Mr. Lee Roper who was Linden’s first African American firefighter.
In addition to Holland’s promotion, Firefighter Steven Cuco was promoted to Lieutenant and Lieutenant Michael Cassidy was promoted to Captain. The series of promotions are the result of recent retirements of longtime Firefighters Joe Monsorno and Captain Brian Pericone.
(above) Firefighter Anthony Holland being sworn in as lieutenant, alongside his family and Chief Hasko
