FDNY Memorial Day

Thousands of members attended the 102nd annual FDNY Memorial Day ceremony at St. John the Devine Cathedral in Manhattan. View Gallery

The FDNY remembered its heroes during the 102nd annual Memorial Day ceremony on Oct. 7. And although the threat of rain and high winds kept the event indoors, thousands of members attended the ceremony at St. John the Devine Cathedral in Manhattan.

“New York City is only as strong as the men and women who protect it,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. “And because of [our firefighters, paramedics and EMTs], we are strong indeed.”

Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta added, “Bound by duty, you came today to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. You are soldiers in a war that never ends.”

Three FDNY members were remembered for their making the Supreme Sacrifice, including Lt. Robert Ryan, Jr., from Engine 155; Firefighter Paul Warhola, from Engine 221; and Firefighter Jamel Sears, from the Bureau of Training.

Their families received a Department flag and a Medal of Valor from the Mayor, Fire Commissioner and Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano. They also received a Union Medal of Supreme Sacrifice.

“Today we acknowledge that our job is a dangerous one, at any time we will put our lives on the line for a complete stranger,” said Chief Cassano.

Nine additional active members were memorialized during the ceremony: FF Thomas Orlando, from Engine 65; EMT Wendell O'Brien, from the Bureau of Health Services; FF Salvatore Scarentino, from Ladder 24; FF John J. Kelly, from Engine 37; Paramedic Clyde F. Sealy, from the Bureau of Health Services; FF Christopher M. Velez, from Squad 252; FF Timothy G. Lockwood, from Engine 275; EMT Ruby Greaves, from the Emergency Medical Dispatch; and FF John F. McNamara, from Engine 234.