By Kat Leslie
Warwick’s biennial Fire Department Parade returned in full force this past Saturday, June 14, 2025, honoring outgoing Fire Chief Andrew Lemin and welcoming incoming Chief Kelly Brock in a vibrant display of tradition, service, and hometown pride.
Hundreds lined the streets of the Village as the procession stepped off at 3 p.m., following a route from Park Avenue to Memorial Park. The parade featured a blend of the classic and the contemporary—fire apparatus old and new, color guards, pipe bands, local officials, and community organizations all marching side by side.
Floats and classic apparatus—from a 1919 hand-drawn hose cart to a 2024 Chevy Tahoe rescue unit—added depth and character to the celebration. The Warwick Fire Department’s biennial parade is more than just a public spectacle—it’s a rite of passage and a ceremonial transition. First held decades ago, the event now serves as both a thank-you to the outgoing Chief and a warm welcome to the incoming leadership.
This year’s celebration marked the end of an era as Fire Chief Andrew Lemin was honored for his years of service and leadership—particularly during the Sterling Forest Wildfire response, where the Warwick Fire Department played a critical role in safeguarding lives and property.
Leading the parade as Grand Marshal was longtime community member Mike Batz, a respected supporter of fire services and civic engagement. Also in attendance were town officials, fire chiefs from neighboring communities, and local dignitaries.
Town Supervisor Jesse Dwyer praised Lemin’s efforts in a public statement, saying:
“Our sincere thanks go out to Chief Andrew Lemin for his hard work and dedication during his time as Chief. The Warwick Fire Department played a big role in supporting firefighting operations during the Sterling Forest Wildfire, and we are forever grateful for their support.”
In a formal ceremony following the parade, the department also welcomed incoming Chief Kelly Brock, who will now lead Warwick’s volunteer firefighters through the next chapter of their service. “We look forward to continuing to work together to serve the residents of the Town of Warwick,” Dwyer added. His message was clear: Warwick stands united in its gratitude for those who protect and serve, and ready to support the next generation of leadership.
In the days leading up to the parade, community support took center stage with a Window Display Contest, encouraging businesses along Oakland and Main Streets to decorate their storefronts in the spirit of Flag Day. Judged by the “Impartial Judges Association,” entries were evaluated on creativity, use of theme, visual impact, and overall design. Winners were announced at the conclusion of the parade in Memorial Park, with a trophy awarded for best overall display. Beyond the pageantry, the celebration highlighted the essential role of Warwick’s volunteer fire services. These events foster public appreciation for the countless hours volunteers dedicate behind the scenes—at emergencies, in training, and throughout the year.
Behind the scenes, the Warwick Fire Department Parade Committee, led by Parade Secretary Deborah Schweikart, coordinated logistics, safety plans, and communications with participating departments. Advance notices were distributed to residents and businesses in the parade zone with traffic instructions and parking restrictions to ensure the day ran smoothly.
The 2025 lineup was notably diverse, featuring not only the Warwick Fire Department and Warwick PD Color Guard, but also mechanical bands, pipes and drums and numerous fire departments, including Pine Island, Goshen, Monroe, Highland Lakes, Tuxedo Park, and more.
As fire trucks lined up for judging and parade-goers filled Memorial Park, the event reminded all present of the rich tradition and deep-rooted volunteerism that defines Warwick. Whether through decades of service, a shop window proudly dressed in red, white, and blue, or the smile of a young child waving a flag from the sidewalk, the message rang clear:
Warwick is a community that shows up—for its firefighters, its history, and one another.
