Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today unveiled a plaque honoring
the memory of fallen Firefighters Brian Fahey and Harry Ford. The
two veteran firefighters from Rescue Company 4 died on June 17 (Father's
Day), 2001, as a result of injuries sustained while battling a fast-moving
fifth alarm fire in a hardware store in Queens. Mayor Bloomberg was
joined by members of the Fahey and Ford families along with hundreds
of friends, Firefighters, and Fire Officers for the plaque dedication
at the quarters of Rescue Company 4.
"Firefighters
Brian Fahey and Harry Ford spent their lives protecting the lives
of others and courageously served their fellow New Yorkers,"
Mayor Bloomberg said. "These two men embodied the true spirit
of New York's Bravest, selflessly making the ultimate sacrifice in
the line of duty on Father's Day one year ago. While we cannot bring
Firefighters Fahey and Ford back to their families, friends, or Company,
we can honor their service and valor by never forgetting their efforts
and the work of their brothers and sisters in the FDNY."
"One year
ago, when Brian Fahey and Harry Ford died in the line of duty, all
New Yorkers mourned the loss of a these brave men who risked their
lives to protect others," Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta
said. "Although a raging fire took their lives - as well as the
life of Firefighter John Downing - it did not take their spirit or
the strength of their example. This plaque will serve as a fitting
tribute to these brave men and offer inspiration to those who will
come after them."
Firefighter Brain
Fahey was a 14-year veteran of the FDNY and was assigned to Rescue
Company 4 in Queens. During his career, he worked at Engine Companies
249 and 298, as well as Ladder Company 155. A resident of East Rockaway,
Long Island, he is survived by his wife Mary and three sons, Brendan,
9, and twins Patrick and James, 4.
Firefighter Harry
Ford was a 27-year veteran of the FDNY and was assigned to Rescue
Company 4 in Queens. During his career, he worked at Ladder Companies
11 and 108. A resident of Long Beach, Long Island, he is survived
by his wife Denise, daughter Janna, 25, and two sons Harry, 13, and
Gerard, 11. Firefighter Ford was cited nine times for bravery and
heroism during his career.