by Jeffrey Harmatz
To honor both the individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, as well as the bravery of firefighters all over the city of New York, a street corner on the block that houses Ladder 132 and Engine 280 in Brooklyn was renamed in their honor.
Through the efforts of Community Board 8, Councilwoman Letitia James, and the City Council, the corner of Washington Avenue and St. Johns Place will now be known as "Firefighter's Corner." FDNY personnel from houses across Brooklyn came out for the ceremony, as did the families of those who lost their lives on Septemeber 11.
"We are proud to honor our firefighters, and want them to know that they are a part of our family," said Robert Mathews, Chairman of Community Board 8.
"These firefighters are heroes who put their lives on the line everyday," said James, who read the names of the seven men from the firehouse on St. Johns Place who perished on September 11, and lead a moment of silence to honor their memory. "Whenever we pass through the intersection of Washington and St. Johns, let us think about these losses and remember their sacrifice. I want to extend my thanks to the firefighters for thinking that we are worth their injuries or worse."
In an effort to prevent future losses among the ranks of firefighters, James and members of Community Board 8 also spoke about the need for more fire marshals in New York City. "We're asking for more than 200 additional fire marshals," said Holly Ferguson, head of CB 8's fire and transportation committee.
"All of us appreciate the effort to promote the caring spirit between the fire department and the community," said Assistant Fire Chief Edward Kilduff, who is also the Brooklyn Borough Commander.
In the face of their tragic losses almost six years ago, the youngest relatives of the departed firefighters were eager to help out James as she unveiled the new street sign. Beneath umbrellas on a rainy afternoon, firefighters and their families were moved by the honor.
"This means everything to me," said Pat Kiefer, the mother of Michael Kiefer, a member of Ladder 132 who was killed on September 11. "Every time someone looks up at this sign, they will think of the sacrifices firefighters make. It's just a great honor."
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