FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lisett Lebron, Chief of Staff, Office of the Mayor, Helmin J. Caba
(732) 801- 1574
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HISTORIC SWEARING-IN CEREMONY MARKS A MILESTONE FOR THE CITY OF PERTH AMBOY FIRE DEPARTMENT
PERTH AMBOY, JUNE 30, 2023 - The City of Perth Amboy Fire Department proudly announced the promotion of seven exceptional firefighters to the captain ranks and three new firefighters:
• Captain Patrick McGhee
• Captain Jordian Aquino
• Captain Dylan Krushinski
• Captain John Fazio
• Captain Matthews Dominguez
• Captain Arielle Bonilla
• Captain Kurt Gregory
• Firefighter Alfredo Brenes Jr.
• Firefighter Michael Meininger
• Firefighter Brian Troland
The swearing-in ceremony was held on June 29th at the Perth Amboy Fire Headquarters, located at 375 New Brunswick Avenue, hosted by Fire Chief Edward Mullen alongside Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez, Mayor Helmin J. Caba, city council members, family, friends, and city residents. This strategic expansion ensures that the City of Perth Amboy Fire Department companies are fortified with skilled officers, marking a significant milestone in the department's journey. This special event also hosted the promotion of Arielle Bonilla, the first female and Latina career captain in the department's remarkable 142-year history.
Captain Arielle Bonilla, a seven-year veteran of the Department, has served since joining in 2016 after completing four years in the US Navy as a Boatswain Mate Third Class Petty Officer on the USS New York. After completing three tours in the Middle East during Operation Enduring Freedom, Bonilla took the firefighter exam upon her return. Captain Bonilla has since been actively involved in various Perth Amboy Fire Department divisions, including the Honor Guard, Marine Division, and Dive Team. Bonilla's promotion will see her assigned as Captain on Engine 2 on Battalion 1.
Administering the oath to Captain Bonilla was Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez from New Jersey's Legislative District 19. "I am deeply honored to have sworn in Captain Arielle Bonilla, who has broken barriers as the first female and Latina career captain in Perth Amboy's fire department, said Assemblywoman Lopez. “Her achievement highlights the power of diversity and inclusion in our emergency services. Captain Bonilla's success will inspire countless others to pursue their dreams and serve their communities. I commend the City of Perth Amboy Fire Department for their commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment."
"As we celebrate this historic milestone, we embrace the spirit of progress and inclusivity that defines our city," said Mayor Helmin J. Caba. "Promoting the first female Latina career captain in our fire department's history is a significant achievement and a shining example of the diversity and strength that Perth Amboy embraces. By expanding our fire department and investing in public safety, we build a thriving future where every resident feels safe, empowered, and inspired to reach for the stars."
Captain Arielle Bonilla, in her remarks, shared her journey and encouraged others to pursue their aspirations: "Throughout my career as the first female firefighter of Perth Amboy, I've shown all people that women are just as capable as men. Women can do anything they put their minds to, and they do it with grace. I encourage all females in the community to reach for the stars, challenge themselves, and even explore this amazing career. Never let anyone tell you that you cannot do something because I believe that if someone like me can, anyone can."
Promoting the new captains strengthens the department's capabilities, ensuring that all companies within the City of Perth Amboy Fire Department are now fully equipped with officers, better positioning the department to respond effectively to emergencies and protect the lives and properties of its residents.
"This swearing-in ceremony is a testament to the decades of hard work, dedication, and commitment invested by the City of Perth Amboy Fire Department members," said Edward Mullen, Fire Chief. "We are immensely proud of Captain Arielle Bonilla, whose appointment as the first female and Latina career captain is a historic moment for our department and the City. Her achievement, along with the promotions of our outstanding firefighters, reflects the department's commitment to diversity and excellence."
The City of Perth Amboy Fire Department's journey to this milestone has been shaped by the collective efforts of its personnel and the support of Mayor Helmin J. Caba and City Council members. Through years of dedicated service and rigorous training, the department has evolved into a formidable force, ready to face any challenge that comes its way.
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