Our Story
In 2025, a small group of Delaware firefighters—bound by generations of service, tradition, and pride—came together with a shared vision. They recognized something missing in the First State: an organization dedicated to preserving the rich history of Delaware’s fire service. While other states had long established museums and archives, Delaware’s stories, artifacts, and heroic legacy risked fading into time. Determined to change that, these firemen founded the Delaware Historical Fire Society (non-profit 501(c)(3). Their mission was clear: to collect, preserve, and restore the apparatus, equipment, and memorabilia that tell the story of Delaware’s firefighting heritage—and to share it with generations to come. From antique fire trucks to the gear worn by those who came before us, every artifact holds a piece of our shared history. Through our work, we honor the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of Delaware’s firefighters—past, present, and future.
Delaware’s Firefighting Legacy, Preserved in Time.
Our Leadership
Kyle Kokoszka, President (left), Dominic Cataldi, Vice President (right)
Kyle and Dominic have known each other for over 20 years. Their shared interest in community service led them to join the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown as young teens. Now, both life members and both previously serving as fire line officers, they follow in the footsteps of their family members before them. Bound by tradition and a deep respect for the past, they developed a passion for preserving the stories, memorabilia and apparatus that shaped Delaware’s fire service. Kyle is the proud caretaker of two historic fire engines, including a 1964 Mack that once served the Good Will Fire Company in New Castle, DE. Together, they are active members of SPAAMFAA (The Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America) and the DelMar Antique Fire Apparatus Association, working alongside others who share their dedication to history.
Luke Bazzoli - Chairman of the Board
Luke is a dedicated member and administrative officer of the Talleyville Fire Company, where he has committed his time and energy to serving his community. Following in the footsteps of his family, Luke, alongside his father, serves as a caretaker of the former Talleyville Engine 253, preserving its legacy and honoring the equipment that has been an integral part of the department’s history.
An active member of SPAAMFAA (Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America), Luke is deeply passionate about preserving the stories, history, traditions, and memories of the Delaware fire service. He believes in passing this rich heritage along to the next generation of firefighters, ensuring that the lessons, dedication, and spirit of the fire service endure.
Through his work in both active firefighting and historical preservation, Luke combines service, stewardship, and scholarship, making him a valued member of the Delaware Historical Fire Society and the broader firefighting community
Brian Foote - Director (Wilmington)
Brian Foote serves with the City of Wilmington Fire Department and has been involved in the fire service for most of his life—both professionally and as a dedicated historian of the trade. His passion for antique fire apparatus began at age nine, when he and his father started collecting and preserving classic fire trucks.
What began as a childhood hobby has grown into a personal fleet of six restored rigs, each maintained with care and an eye for authenticity. Brian’s “dream truck” is a storybook American LaFrance tiller, a rare and iconic piece of fire service history that he recently acquired. He is currently undertaking a full ground-up restoration to return the truck to its original glory.
With a deep appreciation for antique apparatus and the stories they carry, Brian is committed to keeping fire service history alive for future generations. Whether turning a wrench or sharing his knowledge with fellow enthusiasts, he brings enthusiasm, craftsmanship, and a lifelong love of the fire service to everything he does.
Josh Lennon - Director (New Castle County)
Josh Lennon, 28, has been an active member of the Mill Creek Fire Company of Marshallton, Delaware since 2011. Over his years of dedicated service, he has held every operational rank within the company, proudly serving today as Deputy Chief. A second-generation firefighter, following in his father’s footsteps, Josh comes from a proud family tradition that collectively represents over 100 years of fire service between Delaware and West Virginia.
Having grown up around Station 21 since the late 1990s, Josh was influenced from a young age by some of the greats of the Delaware fire service. Their leadership and commitment to duty instilled in him a deep respect for the fire service’s history, values, and traditions—principles that continue to guide him, and that he teaches his firefighters today.
In 2022, Josh began collecting Mill Creek Fire Company artifacts, including helmets and turnout coats of past members, with the goal of establishing a museum in his home. His mission is simple yet profound: to ensure the names and legacies of those who served before him are never forgotten.
Through his leadership, historical preservation efforts, and unwavering dedication to the fire service, Josh Lennon stands as a true asset to the Delaware Historical Fire Society and to the Delaware volunteer fire service as a whole.
