Rockland fire safety expert John Kryger posthumously honored by state firefighters group

Former Rockland volunteer and FDNY firefighter and public safety leader John Kryger has posthumously been honored with the 2024 Fire Service Community Achievement Award by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York.

Kryger, a longtime Garnerville resident who died in March , was named recipient of the prestigious award Aug. 9 by FASNY, which is dedicated to informing, educating and training the volunteer fire service.

“John Kryger epitomized volunteerism and an unwavering commitment to public safety,” FASNY President Edward Tase Jr. said in a statement. “His legacy of service and dedication to the community will resonate for years to come.”

In the FDNY, Rockland fire service

Kryger had served with the FDNY from 1965 to 1986. He worked at engine and ladder companies in Brooklyn, Manhattan Staten Island and the Bronx. He also worked for the New York City Fire Department's Fire Service Division.

Kryger served as deputy fire coordinator for Rockland County Fire & Emergency Services.

He also served as a fire instructor at both the Rockland County and state level, and taught at the National Fire Academy. He served with various fire service-related volunteer organizations.

Service to Rockland community

Kryger had served as chairman of the Rockland County Illegal Housing Task Force, which worked to enforce and strengthen fire safety and building codes.

He worked as a sports and public safety reporter for The Journal News from 1987 to 2004. During his tenure, Kryger and a team of reporters produced a series of stories about fire safety after a string of fatal blazes in Rockland. Called "Fire's Deadly Rage," the 1997 series won multiple awards.

An active member of the West Haverstraw Volunteer Fire Department, Kryger served with S.W. Johnson Fire Engine Company from 1974 to 1986 and then Volunteer Hose Co. 2 starting in 2002.

Two years ago, FASNY honored Jared Lloyd , who perished in a 2021 fire at an adult home in Spring Valley, posthumously with its Hero Award.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Rockland fire safety expert John Kryger posthumously honored by state firefighters group