Senator Farley Salutes Fallen Firefighters

State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I - Schenectady) was proud to be a part of the New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony in Albany on October 9th.

"It is important that we always remember, and recognize, the service -- and sacrifice -- made by our firefighters," Senator Farley said at the ceremony. "On behalf of the New York State Senate, let me express our gratitude and appreciation to our firefighters and their families."

As part of Fire Prevention Week and October as National Fire Safety Month, new names of fallen firefighters are annually included in the memorial, located only steps away from the Capitol. As of this year's ceremony, there are 2,372 names on the wall. Honored this year were William E. Akin Jr. of Ghent Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, LeRoy A. Kemp of the Tioga Center Fire Company No. 1, Paul R. Brady of the Malverne Fire Department, Frederic P. Smith of the Harrisville Volunteer Fire Department, Alfred J. Hynes of the Ogdensburg Fire Department, and George T. Hamilton of the Cohoes Fire Department. The earliest name on the wall is from the year 1811.

Senator Farley said the memorial "serves to remind us of the daily hazards faced by all of our firefighters, and of their dedication, commitment and heroism in serving and protecting the public."