In a ceremony marking his nearly 50 years serving the Syosset community, Joseph W. Hendrickson Jr. received an honorary chief award from the Syosset Fire Department recently.
Hendrickson comes from a long line of Syosset firemen and served his community for close to 48 years. His grandfather was an ex-chief for many years both prior to and during World War II. Joseph Sr., his father, was also an honorary chief and served for more than 60 years.
Born in Syosset, Hendrickson attended St. Dominic’s in Oyster Bay where he graduated in 1964. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in the Vietnam War. Post service in the military, Hendrickson returned to his home in Oyster Bay Cove and later joined the Syosset Fire Department in 1968.
From his teenage years, Hendrickson worked on the William H. Long Estate, Sunken Orchard until 1984. At age 35, Hendrickson went to work for JOBCO Inc. as a property manager until 1996. He then changed career paths at the age of 49, to become an assistant director of operations of the Farmingdale School District. He later changed school districts to become a director of operations at the Bellmore School District.
Hendrickson is an active member of the Hook and Ladder Company and Fire Police Officer of Syosset Fire Department through the years. Hendrickson said his greatest joys came from serving in the fire department and from raising his five children, Joseph III, Dennis, Kevin, Stacey and Mary Ellen. He retired last July and now enjoys spending time with his five children and his nine grandchildren, Sean, Connor, Chloe, Evan, Matthew, Stone, Madison, Ryan and Alexa. Family traditions and the Syosset Fire Department have one of his greatest accomplishments in his life. His life has been dedicated to serving others in need, working hard, gardening and setting the example for all those who have the pleasure of knowing him.
