Chief of Department, Frank P. Cruthers

Firefighters routinely put themselves in harm’s way for the sake of others. They do it for one another, meeting the test of "no greater gift," that being the willingness to "lay down one’s life for a friend."

Firefighters go even beyond that level of selflessness. They commit themselves daily to heroic efforts under circumstances of mortal danger for the sake of total strangers.

The most likely response from a New York City Firefighter to a query about a spectacular rescue is, "I was only doing my job." It is said in genuine modesty and true sincerity, while the rest of the world stands appropriately in awe of his performance.

Today, we award medals to honor those members who performed the most outstanding acts of heroism during 2002. They represent the daily acts of heroism performed by Firefighters throughout the City every day of every year.

We salute our present and past medal winners, all those who have given their lives in service to the people of the City of New York. We remember those who gave their lives at the World Trade Center. They set new standards for us in valor and dedication; we bask in their reflected glory.