The Auburn Fire Department is honoring Captain Mike Deyneka as he completes his final shift, bringing to a close a distinguished career that spanned more than three decades of service to the City of Auburn and the fire service throughout New York State.
Deyneka joined the Auburn Fire Department on Sept. 9, 1994, and over the next 31 years built a reputation as both a dedicated firefighter and a respected educator. His contributions to firefighter training were recognized this week when he received the 2026 Chief Fred W. Singer Fire Educator of the Year Award from the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs.
Throughout his career, Deyneka advanced steadily through the department’s ranks. He was promoted to lieutenant in August 2006 and assigned to C Platoon Engine Company 4 before transferring to B Platoon Engine Company 3 in 2010. In August 2011, he was promoted to captain and served with A Platoon Engine Company 4 before transferring to C Platoon Engine Company 3 in July 2014, where he remained for the rest of his career.
While his service to Auburn residents was significant, department officials said Deyneka’s impact reached far beyond the city.
As a certified New York State fire instructor, Deyneka spent the past 20 years teaching recruit firefighters at the New York State Academy of Fire Science. He also conducted training programs throughout Cayuga County and across New York, helping prepare firefighters for emergency response and leadership roles within their departments.
In addition to his work with the state academy, Deyneka provided hands-on instruction through the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, helping firefighters develop the skills needed to serve their communities safely and effectively.
The Auburn Fire Department noted that while the impact of a fire instructor can be difficult to measure, Deyneka’s influence can be seen in the thousands of firefighters who benefited from his knowledge, experience, and mentorship over the years.
Whether responding to emergencies, teaching in the classroom, or leading training exercises, Deyneka was known for sharing his expertise and helping others succeed in the profession.
As he retires from active service, the department thanked Deyneka for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to the fire service, saying his contributions will leave a lasting legacy in Auburn and throughout New York State.
