| On May 30th, 2026, the Vista Fire Department held its Annual Inspection Dinner at the Vista Firehouse on Smith Ridge Road in South Salem, New York.
At the event, the department proudly recognized three outstanding members for their service during the 2025–2026 year:
-- Foreman Pietro Cipriano was awarded Firefighter of the Year
-- Lieutenant Dan Castelhano was awarded EMT of the Year
-- Firefighter/EMT Ashtin Rama was awarded Rookie of the Year
Foreman Pietro Cipriano joined the department in February 2024 and has quickly established himself as a dedicated and reliable member. He is a cleared driver on Utility 256, both ambulances, Engine 142, Engine 141, and Tanker 4. During the past year, he responded to 137 out of 368 calls, ranking #7 in total responses, and attended 18 out of 38 drills. His commitment to training, operations, and overall department readiness made him a clear choice for this year’s Firefighter of the Year.
Lieutenant Dan Castelhano joined the Vista Fire Department in May 2016 and continues to be a consistent and dependable leader within the department. A former Rookie of the Year (2017–2018) and Firefighter of the Year (2018–2019), Lt. Castelhano responded to 126 out of 368 calls this year, ranking #9 in total responses. He also attended 32 out of 38 drills, placing #6 in drill attendance. His continued dedication to both EMS and fire operations earned him recognition as this year’s EMT of the Year.
Firefighter/EMT Ashtin Rama joined the Vista Fire Department in April 2025 and has made an immediate impact in his first year. He responded to 92 out of 368 calls and attended 19 out of 38 drills. In addition, he became a cleared driver on Utility 256 and the department’s ambulances, while also earning both his EMT-Basic and Firefighter 1 certifications within his first year. His motivation, work ethic, and rapid development made him a standout choice for Rookie of the Year.
The Vista Volunteer Fire Department congratulates all of its 2026 award recipients and thanks them for their continued dedication to the safety and service of the Vista Fire District #1 community. |
