FDNY Remembers Fallen Members at Annual Memorial Day Ceremony

October 12, 2016

On October 12th, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro joined FDNY members and families to commemorate the 109th annual FDNY Memorial Day ceremony at the Firefighters Monument in Manhattan.

This year the Department honored five FDNY members who have died in the past year.  Deputy Chief Michael J. Fahy; Battalion 19, EMS Lieutenant Joann Restko; EMS Station 7, EMS Captain Timothy Roberts; EMS Communications, EMT Ronald Schaal; EMS Bureau of Training, and Firefighter Jeffrey Wallen; Engine 4 were remembered at the ceremony.

“When we think of these heroes, we will always be reminded of what’s possible when human beings follow the highest ideals,” said Mayor de Blasio. “We will never forget them. We will always aspire to be like them, so their service to their families, their city and this country will never end.

Over 7,000 FDNY members attended the annual ceremony.

“For more than 100 years, we have gathered here before this monument to pay our respects to all those taken from us far too soon,” said Commissioner Nigro. “We always remember the men and women of this Department…never for how they died…always for the extraordinary way in which they lived.

“This uniform comes with enormous responsibility, and it also comes with a promise, said Chief Leonard. “A solemn promise that you will not be forgotten.  A commitment to care for your family, to carry on your legacy, and to honor your memory always.”

For photos of FDNY’s 109th Memorial Day at Riverside Park, click here.