Engine 273 and Ladder 129 Celebrate 100 Years of Service

Plaques were dedicated in honor of Engine 273 and Ladder 129's centennial
as well as for two members who died in the line of duty.

Generations of firefighters gathered at the quarters of Engine 273 and Ladder 129 in Flushing, Queens, to celebrate the firehouse’s centennial on Oct. 22.

During the ceremony, two plaques also were dedicated to members who died in the line of duty - Firefighter Ernest Mattes, who died in 1935, and Firefighter Richard Schultz, who died in 1959.

“You do what few people are willing, or able, to do, risk your life to save another - almost always a perfect stranger,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “That was the essence of what it took to be a firefighter 100 years ago, and that is the essence of what it takes to be a firefighter today.”

Among the honored guests at the ceremony were more than 80 retired firefighters who traveled from across the country to attend the ceremony. They recalled memories of their time serving at the firehouse as they looked at old photos and mementos that adorned the walls of the apparatus floor.

“The commitment, dedication, bravery and courage that these members possess are qualities that have served the community well,” said Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano.

Several local politicians, including Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, Council Member John Liu, State Assembly Member Ellen Young and State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, attended the ceremony. Each presented the firehouse with proclamations and citations honoring their milestone anniversary.

Numerous past and present members gathered at Engine 273 and Ladder 129
in Flushing, Queens, for the centennial ceremony.

“Many things have changed in Flushing over the last 100 years, but one thing that never changes are the dedicated members of this firehouse,” said Ladder 129’s Captain John Urbielewicz.

Captin Mark Doran of Engine 273 added, “The respect the firehouse has attained throughout the years is a direct result of the unwavering dedication of those who came before us.”

The firehouse is first due to many landmarks in Queens, including Shea Stadium and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

The firefighters of Engine 273 and Ladder 129 also have won dozens of medals and citations for bravery in the last century.

Firefighter Larry Parker of Ladder 129, who helped organize the ceremony, described the past and present members of the firehouse as “outstanding,” adding, “I think this firehouse is the best in the city, it has a great spirit.”