John Hodgens, a 36-veteran of the FDNY, was promoted Friday to chief of department – the highest ranking uniform position.

"My family being here, especially my dad who did 33 years on this department, was a very special moment for me,” said Hodgens.

Alongside Chief Hodgens, three other members of New York’s Bravest received promotions to new positions in the department. John Esposito was promoted to chief of fire operations. Chief of Special Operations Command Malcolm Moore was promoted to the rank of deputy assistant chief. Charles Downey was promoted to deputy assistant chief and chief of the fire academy.

Acting Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh praised all of the men at the ceremony for their work and dedication as some of New York’s Bravest.