Chief of Department
Robert Batterson
Meet the Chiefs
Robert Batterson
Chief of Department
Robert was sworn into the East Williston Fire Department on September 2nd, 2013. After completing his initial firefighter training, he became an EMT in 2015. Rob served as Department Engineer from 2017 to 2019, Lieutenant of the Truck company from 2019 to 2021, and Captain of the Truck Company from 2021-2023. He was elected Asst Chief in April 2023, and in April of 2025, he was elected to the position of Chief of Department, following in the footsteps of his Father, and Grandfather.
Thomas Devaney
1st Assistant Chief
Thomas Devaney was sworn into the East Williston Fire Department on March 6, 1995. Shortly after joining, Tom became a Qualified Firefighter (QF) and earned his qualification to chauffeur the department’s ladder truck.
Tom completed his EMT-Basic certification in 1996 and went on to achieve EMT-Critical Care certification in 2001. He has remained continuously certified by the New York State Department of Health ever since. In addition to his EMS credentials, Tom is also a certified Motor Pump Operator, a Hazmat Technician – Specialist, and an Assistant Fire Inspector.
He served in the Truck Company as both Lieutenant and Captain before being elected Assistant Chief of the East Williston Fire Department.
Tom is an active Trustee and Past President of the Volunteer & Exempt Firemen's Benevolent Association of East Williston. He also serves as Treasurer of the Nassau County Firefighters Emerald Society and is a Commissioner for the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Inc. Tom also holds the position of Vice-Chair of the Nassau County Regional EMS Council.
Tom resides with his wife, Kristen, and their four sons: Ryan, Collin, Connor, and Aidan.
Cesar Romero
2nd Assistant Chief
Cesar Romero and his family moved to East Williston in early 2013. He joined the East Williston Fire Department shortly after and was sworn in as a member in May 2013, becoming a qualified firefighter soon after.
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He served in the Truck Company until 2019, when he was elected Lieutenant of the Engine Company. He then served as Captain of the Engine Company from 2021 to 2023, and as Captain of the Truck Company from 2023 to 2025.
In April 2025, Cesar was elected Second Assistant Chief. His years of service and leadership reflect a deep commitment to the department and a continued dedication to protecting the East Williston community.
