The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has awarded the 2026 FASNY Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship to Brendan Horn of the Vestal Volunteer Fire Department. Brendan received a certificate and a $1,500 scholarship for his volunteer service in the community from FASNY. Brendan is one of 26 students chosen for this scholarship.<\/p>\n
Scholarships are awarded based on an applicant\u2019s volunteer service to their community, such as serving with a local fire department, scouting, church, school, work with senior citizens, fire prevention, and other projects. Additional criteria include a consistent demonstration of good character and completion of a written essay.<\/p>\n
Brendan said he always wanted to be part of the fire department. Waiting years to finally apply, he stated, \u201cThe moment I could, I submitted my application to my fire department, enrolled in an EMT class, became a nationally certified EMT, and applied to my local EMS agency.\u201d<\/p>\n
Post-graduation, Brendan plans to attend Onondaga Community College in their Fire Technology Protection program. <\/span><\/p>\n Outside of the firehouse, Brendan was a video production volunteer and a member of the student council.<\/p>\n