Longtime Montclair Firefighter Retires, 6 Others Promoted

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Montclair Fire Department recently congratulated several firefighters for earning promotions – and bid a fond farewell to a retiring deputy chief.

Earlier this month, the MFD congratulated Deputy Chief Michael Lizza as he begins his retirement after more than 25 years of service to the township.

According to the MFD, Lizza began his career in 2001 and became a firefighter the following year. Throughout his career, he continued to rise through the ranks, earning promotion to lieutenant in 2011, captain in 2021, and deputy chief in 2024.

“As he begins this next chapter, we thank Deputy Chief Lizza for his many years of service and sacrifice and wish him and his family good health, happiness, and a long and fulfilling retirement,” the MFD said.

PROMOTIONS

Meanwhile, the township congratulated six firefighters for earning promotions during a ceremony at the Sept. 15 town council meeting.

The promoted firefighters included:

• Thomas Hargraves — Deputy Chief
• David Hill — Battalion Chief
• John Fierro — Battalion Chief
• William Roth — Captain
• Samuel Bendsten — Captain
• Keith Ferentz — Captain

The department also welcomed Anthony Padillo, who was sworn in as a probationary firefighter.

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