ALBANY, NY (October 7, 2025) — Governor Kathy Hochul led a solemn tribute to 126 fallen firefighters at the 28th Annual New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony held at the Empire State Convention Center in Albany. The ceremony honored the 2,818 New York firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, with their names added to the Memorial Wall at Empire State Plaza.
“For 28 years, we have come together to honor New York firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty,” Hochul said. “While putting the lives of others ahead of their own, they made the ultimate sacrifice, and we are eternally grateful for their service.”
The governor also issued proclamations declaring October 7, 2025, as Firefighter Appreciation Day and October 6-10, 2025, as Fire Prevention Week in New York State to recognize the state’s career and volunteer firefighters.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray emphasized the bravery of the fallen. “Today we honor our fallen firefighters as we remember them for their courage and the sacrifices they made to keep their communities safe,” Bray said.
The ceremony highlighted the ongoing impact of the September 11, 2001 attacks, with New York State Fire Administrator James Cable noting that the majority of those honored this year succumbed to illnesses related to their response and recovery efforts. “Sadly, the number of those lost to illnesses as a result of their participation in the response and recovery efforts after the attacks of September 11, 2001 continues to grow,” Cable said.
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins praised the state’s commitment to firefighters. “I am very proud of the initiatives and investments our state has established to ensure New York’s firefighters have the resources they need to thrive and continue saving lives,” she said.
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie underscored the importance of the memorial. “The Fallen Firefighters Memorial and this ceremony is a place for us to honor the memory, the courage and the legacy of those that died in the line of duty and their families,” Heastie said.
Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt and Assembly Cities Committee Chair Patrick Burke also paid tribute, with Ortt noting the need to document the sacrifices for future generations and Burke expressing gratitude to the families and firefighters. “May God bless all of the families represented today and New York’s bravest – past, present and future,” Burke said.
The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control continues to promote fire safety awareness, working with local fire departments, schools, and civic groups. The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services supports efforts to prevent and respond to emergencies, ensuring the safety of New York’s communities.
Photos of the ceremony are available online, and the list of fallen firefighters can be found on the state’s official website.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.