Brian Curry

Brian Curry, a member of the Patchogue-Medford High School Class of 1973, is a community leader whose life has been defined by a dedication to public safety, civic engagement, and the written word. Moving to North Patchogue from New York City in 1970 to begin his sophomore year, Brian quickly immersed himself in the Pat-Med spirit, serving as the photography editor of the yearbook “The Record” and a writer/photographer for the newspaper “The Red & Black” during his high school years.

Following graduation, Brian’s connection to the district and the community only deepened. He became a volunteer instructor for Project Self Esteem, dedicating weeks to teaching sixth-grade classes alongside other parent volunteers. However, his most enduring contribution began immediately after high school when he joined the North Patchogue Fire Department. For 35 active years—and now as a 51-year life member—Brian served the department with distinction. He held numerous leadership roles, including Fire Lieutenant, Rescue Lieutenant, Emergency Medical Technician, and NYS certified Incident Safety Officer. As the Chief Fire Prevention-Fire Safety Officer, he became a familiar face to thousands of local children, scheduling and teaching assemblies at Barton, Canaan, and Medford Elementary schools. His hands-on approach, introducing students to NPFD equipment, extended to Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, church groups, and nursery schools. His tireless work as a fire safety educator earned him repeated recognition from both the NPFD and Suffolk County.
Brian’s commitment to service expanded into the political and civic arenas. He was tapped by New York State Assemblywoman Debra Mazzarelli to serve as her Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services Staff Liaison. In this capacity, he represented Mazzarelli at critical policy discussions and events, providing vital input on issues impacting the Patchogue-Medford community. Additionally, he was an active member of the Patchogue Lions Club, supporting initiatives ranging from school supply drives to the “Christmas in June” event for disadvantaged children.
Brian also developed a powerful voice as a journalist and commentator. Leveraging his experience as the NPFD Public Information Officer, he began writing and photographing for the Long Island Advance and Fire News. This evolved into a weekly column in the Advance, where he penned over 500 articles highlighting the achievements of Patchogue-Medford teachers, students, and civic groups. His writing, which earned him three “First-Place Column” awards from the New York State Press Association, served as a bridge between the schools and the broader community.

Now residing in Arizona, Brian continues his legacy of service. He remains active with the Sun Lakes Lions Club, having served as President, and contributes to the Arizona Fire and Medical Authority as a Public Information Officer and Fire Corps member. Despite the distance, his Patchogue-Medford roots remain firm, personified by his wife and former PMHS classmate Debra. Together they have four adult children and three grandchildren. He continues to write for the Advance and Fire News.