By FASNY Deputy Volunteer Programs Coordinator John D’Alessandro

In recent years this simple saying has become deeply associated with the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Yet, while waiting for the 2012 Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony to begin, it hit me that these two sentences go well beyond that awful day.

As I scanned the granite memorial wall, it felt as if the seemingly endless flow of names reached out to embrace the crowd of firefighters and dignitaries. The event was hosted by the Office of Fire Prevention and Control and run like a well-coordinated fire scene by Deputy Fire Administrator Bill Davis. After a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Regina Wilson of the FDNY and the invocation by Reverend Gerald Buckley of the New York State Professional Firefighters Association, the speakers began. Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy and Division of Homeland Security Commissioner Jerome Hauer spoke on behalf of the Governor. Words of thanks were then conveyed by Senator Hugh Farley and Assemblyman Steven Englebright on behalf of the Legislature.

Once the speeches were concluded the Roll of Honor and flag presentation to the families of the 2012 inductees were started. No matter how many times you attend this ceremony, this part of the program always evokes a strange combination of emotions. Sorrow for the families, but pride in knowing these individuals were committed to being there when their friends, families and neighbors needed them.

As I watched the laying of the memorial wreath by FASNY President Jim Burns and PFFA President Michael McManus, a subtle but strong message hit me. This simple action signified that the thread that connects all firefighters is woven from the principles of valor, honor and professionalism and is far stronger than any minor differences we may encounter. The formal ending of the ceremony commenced with the singing of the Firefighter’s Creed
and concluded with a benediction from FASNY Chaplain Reverend Wayne Jagow.

While it is impossible to not feel for all the families of those on the wall, it is also impossible to not feel a sense of being part of something bigger than one’s self. Since the very first volunteer fire brigades, the very nature of what we do demands a bond well beyond that of ”co-workers”. The brother and sisterhood of firefighters is more than an idealistic notion. It is an attitude, a feeling, a commitment. It’s knowing that if any of us has to go into harm’s way we will not go there alone. The individuals whose names appear on that wall knew that and their sacrifice should forever remind the rest of us what it truly means to be a firefighter.

2012 Honorees

Chief Frederic P. Smith (Harrisville Volunteer Fire Department): Upon returning from service in the Navy, Chief Smith began a teaching career at Harris Central School. As a teacher and Chief of the Department, he touched the lives of each and every person in his small Adirondack community. Chief Smith left those people while doing what he loved.

Fire Police Captain William E. Akin (Ghent Volunteer Fire Company): During his 35 year career as a fi refi ghter, Captain Akin had received many awards but none more prized than being named the Lyle Wager Firefighter of the Year in 2003. He was only 54 years old when he passed responding to a fi re call on October 19, 2010.

Firefighter Paul R. Brady (Malverne Fire Department): Shortly after joining the Department, Firefighter Brady became known as one of those members who would respond to a call any time of the day. He derived true pleasure from both responding to calls and working around the firehouse. On the morning of July 30, 2006, he responded to the station for his last call.

Firefighter George T. Hamilton (Cohoes Fire Department): While pulling hose to battle a fire in a two-story building, Firefighter Hamilton was mortally hurt. He was transported to Cohoes Hospital but could not recover from his wounds on April 23, 1922.

Firefighter Alfred J. Hynes (Ogdensburg Fire Department): Upon becoming a firefighter in his early twenties, Firefighter Hynes quickly gained the respect by the other members of his department. After making entry into the basement of a burning building on October 25, 1934, Firefighter Hynes became overcome by suffocating smoke and could not be revived.

Firefighter LeRoy A. Kemp (Tioga Center Fire Company): As a firefighter, EMT and Chief of the Department, LeRoy Kemp had dedicated his life to public service. He was named Fireman of the Year in 1980 and 2010 before he passed while responding to an EMS call on January 13, 2010.