Thomas Von Essen

Fire Commissioner

Each year, roughly 40 members are singled out and recognized for their heroic acts — those actions that are deemed to be above and beyond the call of duty and scope of the job. As the Commissioner, I am enormously proud of these individuals. But, I am equally proud of all of you--the firefighters operating the line who protect the inside team so they can search for victims; the ECCs who keep the water flowing; the chauffeurs who position their aerial or bucket, just in case that alternate egress is needed; the officers who place their companies’ safety and well-being before their own. These acts are performed everyday on this job, in all boroughs, at all levels. Some receive official recognition and many go unheralded. Never forget that yours is the most dangerous of jobs and you are held in the highest esteem by me and the people of New York City. Medal Day always is one of the proudest days for the FDNY. Thank you for the pride we all feel as Firefighters in honoring your incredible heroism.