Edward A. Licciardo joined the East Meadow Fire Department on February 16, 2009, as a member of Engine Company #4.
From the outset, members recognized the asset Ed would become to the company. He embraced the work immediately and quickly proved himself as a strong addition to Engine Company #4. Over the years, Ed has consistently demonstrated the dedication, professionalism, and leadership expected of a true fire service leader.
In 2012, Ed ran for the position of 2nd Lieutenant. With his ability to command his company on full display, he was elected 1st Lieutenant the following year and subsequently advanced to the highest company office, achieving the rank of Captain in 2014.
In 2019, Ed was among the department members recognized at the Ceremony of Heroism for his work at the Long Island Railroad derailment in Westbury. In 2020, he was recognized by his company for his commitment, dedication, and leadership, receiving the Firefighter of the Year Award.
In 2019, he also joined the 6155 Safety Officers Squad, where he would later hold the position of Lieutenant in 2025, once again reflecting Ed’s character, passion, dedication, and commitment to the East Meadow Fire Department and our community.
Driven by his love of the job and his commitment to serving our community, Ed ran again in 2020 for the officer line serving once more as Lieutenant and then returning as Captain of Engine Company #4 in 2023.
In 2021, while dining with his wife at a local restaurant, then Lieutenant Licciardo noticed an 18-month-old child in distress. He immediately ran to assist and discovered the child was choking. Relying on his training, Ed performed the Heimlich maneuver, clearing the child’s airway and restoring normal breathing. For his outstanding actions, Ed received the Nassau County, Town of Hempstead, and EMS Life-Saving Awards.
Throughout the years, Ed has remained an active and integral part of Engine Company #4, day in and day out while keeping his sights set on leading our department as a Chief.
On the eve of April 9, 2026, Edward A. Licciardo was elected to the position of 3rd Assistant Chief.
An outstanding firefighter, he will no doubt continue to move our department forward in training and technology while maintaining the highest standard of safety for our members and residents.
Married to his wife, Patricia, of 34 years, they have two successful children and, in 2025, were blessed with their first grandchild.
With strong family values and a steadfast commitment to service, please join us in welcoming our newest 3rdAssistant Chief, Edward A. Licciardo.
