NYSAFC Attends NYS Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony

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By NYSAFC President Frank "Skip" Sylvester

NYSAFC was honored to take part in this year’s New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony held on October 11, 2011 at the Empire State Plaza in Albany. Representing the State Chiefs were (pictured L to R) Executive Director Tom LaBelle, 1st Vice President Richie Messina, President Frank "Skip" Sylvester, 2nd Vice President John Tighe, and Immediate Past President Al Varlaro.

Emergency services personnel were joined at the ceremony by family and friends of the fallen, as well government leaders. The names of nine brother firefighters lost in the line of duty were added to the Memorial Wall this year. Two were lost in 2010, while the others perished in previous years.

The ceremony began with the Color Guard of the Albany Fire Department presenting the colors, followed by the singing of our National Anthem by Lt. Anthony Rich of the FDNY. The invocation was given by Rabbi Joseph Potasnik from the New York Board of Rabbis. A prayer for firefighter safety was presented by Rev. Gerald J. Buckley, chaplain of the New York State Professional Firefighters Association.

Following the Roll of Honor being read, each firefighter’s family was presented with a flag by Deputy Secretary for Public Safety Elizabeth Glazer, Acting Commissioner James Sherry of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and Chief Bryant Stevens of the Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

After the traditional tolling of the bell, a memorial wreath was placed at the Monument and "The Fighter's Creed" was performed by the group Seisiun. The benediction, a moment of silence, and the playing of "Taps" concluded the ceremony. The Westchester Firefighters Emerald Society Pipes & Drums performed as the Albany Fire Department retired the colors.

As of this year’s ceremony, there are 2,366 names enshrined on the granite wall. The earliest name dates back to 1811. To learn more about the Fallen Firefighters Memorial including the history of the Memorial and a list of those honored this year, click  here. To view more photos from the event, click here.