Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Dwight Williams (212) 788-2972
"Today we pay tribute to the memory of Peter McLaughlin, a wonderful son and brother, and dedicated member of Rescue 4," Mayor Giuliani said. "Peter was the very essence of what it means to be a professional. He is -- and will always remain -- a symbol of the courage and commitment of the New York City Firefighter. Peter's name is forever engraved in the heart of New York City and today we symbolize our respect and devotion to this wonderful man by dedicating this plaque in his honor and by naming this street in his memory."
"Peter McLaughlin was a hero firefighter," Commissioner Von Essen said. "It is very fitting that we are here on the anniversary of his tragic and untimely death to remember and honor him. Generations of children who will visit this firehouse will see this street sign and learn about Peter and the tremendous courage and bravery he displayed."
On October 8, 1995 Rescue Unit 4 responded to a three alarm-fire at an apartment building in Long Island City. While McLaughlin searched a fourth floor apartment for survivors, fire broke through the ceiling and claimed his life.
The Mayor, Fire Commissioner Von Essen, the McLaughlin family and members of Rescue Company 4 unveiled the "FF Peter F. McLaughlin Way" street sign on the south side of Queens Boulevard between 64th Street and 65th Street directly across from the Company's headquarters. The McLaughlin family was also presented with a memorial plaque from the Firefighter's Memorial Fund. An identical bronze plaque, to be permanently displayed at the firehouse, was presented to the members of Rescue Company 4.
After serving a four-year tour with the United States Marine Corps, Peter McLaughlin was appointed to the New York City Fire Department in December 1988, and then served with units in the Bronx and Queens. In June 1993, Firefighter McLaughlin became a member of Rescue Unit 4, one of only four such units in the entire City.