North Branford Volunteer Firefighter Anthony Esposito Named Hometown Hero

North Branford's Anthony Esposito Named 2026 Hometown Hero

Anthony Esposito, a member of the North Branford Volunteer Fire Department since 1975, has been named the 2026 recipient of the North Branford Hometown Hero Award by the Shoreline Chamber, according to an announcement published February 24, 2026.

Esposito, who rose to Captain of Company 4 during his decades of service, said he was honored by the recognition. "I love North Branford, and I'm honored to be recognized," he said.

The announcement was followed by a follow-up announcement on February 25 highlighting Esposito's contributions and calling for new volunteer firefighters in the North Branford community. The Shoreline Chamber serves towns along the Connecticut shoreline and recognizes individuals who have made sustained contributions to their communities.

From Junior Firefighter to Captain in North Branford

Esposito's fire service career began in 1975, when he joined the Junior Fire Department at Company 2 after watching his neighbors respond to fire sirens in the neighborhood. He went on to serve for decades, eventually becoming Captain of Company 4.

The fire department shaped more than his career. Esposito met his wife through his involvement with the volunteer department, and he described the organization as "an extended family" that influenced both his personal and professional life, according to the announcement.

"You have the ability to do good things and make a difference," Esposito said of his experience in volunteer service.

Over the course of more than five decades with the department, Esposito has responded to countless emergency calls, participated in training exercises, and mentored younger firefighters entering the volunteer ranks. His progression from junior member to company captain illustrates the kind of long-term institutional commitment that small-town volunteer fire departments depend on to maintain readiness.

Esposito Calls for New North Branford Volunteer Firefighters

In accepting the recognition, Esposito used the spotlight to address what he called the fire department's biggest challenge: recruiting new members.

"The challenge in the fire department is continuing to encourage new members," he said. His message to residents considering volunteer work was direct: "Just do it. If I had a nickel for every time someone has told me, 'I don't have the time.'"

Esposito acknowledged that volunteer fire service demands real sacrifices from both the volunteer and their family. He said fire pager calls interrupted family dinners, holidays, and events throughout the years, and late-night meetings and weekend commitments regularly competed with time at home. He thanked his wife and children for their patience and support over his decades of service, recognizing that the demands of emergency response affected the entire household.

"Once you get involved, it becomes an extended family," Esposito said.

About the North Branford Hometown Hero Award

The Hometown Hero Award is associated with the Shoreline Chamber, according to the announcement's reporting. No official press release from the Chamber or the Town of North Branford has been issued confirming the award or providing details about a ceremony.

Esposito said he plans to continue his work with the fire department and the broader North Branford community. "I want to continue to make a difference in all aspects," he said.

Residents interested in following updates about the award or volunteering with the North Branford Volunteer Fire Department can visit the town's website at northbranfordct.gov or contact the fire department directly.

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