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  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2002
PR-099-02
www.nyc.gov


MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG AND FIRE COMMISSIONER
NICHOLAS SCOPPETTA DEDICATE PLAQUE IN MEMORY OF
FIREFIGHTER KENNETH W. KERR

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta today dedicated a plaque honoring the memory of firefighter Kenneth W. Kerr. Firefighter Kerr suffered cardiac arrest and died shortly after returning from a fire at 2040 Bronxdale Avenue in the Bronx on November 15, 2000. The plaque unveiling was originally scheduled for November 15, 2001, but the September 11th attack and its toll on the Fire Department postponed the ceremony. Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Scoppetta, joined by Firefighter Kerr's colleagues and family members, unveiled the plaque at the quarters of Engine 90 and Ladder 41.

"Everyday, firefighters in New York City willingly place their lives in danger without knowing whether they will ever return to their homes or firehouses," Mayor Bloomberg said. "Like many other of his fellow heroes, Firefighter Kerr sacrificed his life to save the lives of his fellow New Yorkers. We are all indebted to Firefighter Kerr for his selfless service and I assure that we will never forget him or his deeds."

"Firefighter Kenneth Kerr was a true professional who did his job with dedication, commitment and perseverance," said Commissioner Scoppetta. "He exemplified the very best of that which is the Fire Department. This plaque will serve as a permanent tribute to Kenneth and will provide for a lasting testimonial to his memory."

Firefighter Kerr joined the Fire Department on March 15, 1986, after serving in the United States Air Force. He spent his entire 14-year firefighting career at Engine 90 and Ladder 41, located on White Plains Road in the Van Nest section of the Bronx. He was the 772nd Firefighter to give his life in the line of duty in the FDNY's 135-year history. Firefighter Kerr is survived by his wife Lorraine and four children.

www.nyc.gov

Contact: Edward Skyler / Jerry Russo
(212) 788-2958
Francis X. Gribbon,(FDNY)
(718) 999-2056