President Emeritus James E. Hare
Chief James E. Hare started with the Hilton Fire Department exploring program in 1974. He became a firefighter in 1975 and held the office of chief from 1996-1998. Hare also served as president of the department from 2014-2015. He served as president of the Monroe County Fire Chiefs Association from 2007-2008. Additionally, Hare was a retired EMT and code enforcement official and served on the Monroe County Haz-Mat Team for 18 years. He worked with youth in the Hilton Fire Department Explorer Program for 50 years and joined with the members of other Monroe County fire departments to create countywide training programs for youth in the fire service. Hare was recognized by Monroe County and the Hilton Fire Department for his dedication to the fire service and was honored with two County Meritorious Awards – the first for dedication of service for work in fire prevention and leadership and the second for dedication of service with county youth programs. Hare joined NYSAFC in 1983. He was appointed to the Annual Conference Committee Programs Sub-Committee in 2010, served as sergeant-at-arms, and most recently served on the Exhibits Sub-Committee. He also actively supported the Government Affairs Committee. Hare was elected to the board of directors in 2016 and served as a liaison to the Annual Conference and Fire Education Committees. Hare was elected to the office of 2nd vice president in June 2024. He passed away on August 3, 2024. In recognition of Jim’s selfless dedication to the emergency services and to this association, the board of directors passed a resolution and issued a proclamation at the Fall Combined Board and Committee Meeting on September 13, 2024, appointing James E. Hare as president emeritus.