FDNY Holds Wreath Laying Ceremony For 20th Anniversary of The Father’s Day Fire

June 16, 2021

Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro will take part in a wreath laying ceremony for the 20th anniversary of the “Father’s Day Fire” on Thursday, June 17th, at 9 a.m. at Astoria Boulevard and 14th Street in Queens.

Firefighters Harry S. Ford and Brian D. Fahey from Rescue 4, and Firefighter John J. Downing from Ladder 163, were killed while bravely operating at a fire in the Long Island General supply hardware store on June 17, 2001 when a basement explosion caused the two-story brick structure to collapse.

Firefighter Ford had been a firefighter for 27 years, Firefighter Fahey was a 14-year veteran of the Department, and Firefighter Downing had 11 years with the Department with aspirations to become a fire officer when they made the Supreme Sacrifice.

WHO: Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro, Acting Chief of Department Thomas J. Richardson, Members of Rescue 4 and Ladder 163, FDNY Members and their families

WHERE: Astoria Boulevard and 14th Street, Queens

WHEN: Thursday, June 17, 2021 – 9 a.m.