New York state officials on Tuesday honored 11 firefighters who died in the line of duty by adding their names to the New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Albany.
There are now 2,631 men and women on the memorial wall.
The names of the 11 firefighters who died between 2007 and 2021 were read out loud at a ceremony near the state Capitol:
- Joseph M. Boyle, New York City Fire Department
- John "Jack" A. Bradley, West Islip Fire Department
- Doris L. Groene, Vigilant Engine & Hook & Ladder Co., Inc.
- Irving A. Isenberg, Getzville Fire Company, Inc.
- Joseph W. Maiello, New York City Fire Department
- Vincent L. Malveaux, New York City Fire Department
- Thomas G. Manley, New York City Fire Department
- Stanley J. May, The Roslyn Highlands Hook & Ladder, Engine & Hose Co.
- Frank Portelle, New York City Fire Department
- John P. Poulos, New York City Fire Department
- Guy J. Romano, Westbury Fire Department
New York in recent years has sought to expand the number of firefighters who serve, including those in the volunteer ranks. At the same time, lawmakers have proposed measures to strengthen benefits for health care and taxes for firefighters and first responders.
In September, Gov. Kathy Hochul approved legislation meant to strengthen compensation benefits for Sept. 11, 2001, first responders.
"We are eternally indebted to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety. There is no greater calling in life than service to your community - service to others," said Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, who spoke at the ceremony earlier in the day. "The 11 fallen firefighters we honor today join 2,620 fallen firefighters already inscribed on the Memorial Wall. We grieve their loss, but also find inspiration in the love that drove them to service in the first place."