Representatives from EMS agencies across New York State gathered Tuesday morning at the Empire State Plaza in Albany for the annual EMS Memorial Dedication, an emotional ceremony held to honor the brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Among those attending were members of Spring Hill EMS, Haverstraw EMS, Nanuet Community Ambulance, Nyack EMS, New City EMS, Congers-Valley Cottage EMS, William P. Faist EMS, Hatzoloh of Rockland County, New Square EMS, and Stony Point Ambulance Corps. Also present were units from nearby regions, including Kiryas Joel Hatzolah and South Blooming Grove EMS.
This year, five names were solemnly added to the New York State EMS Memorial Wall, joining 125 others who have fallen in service to their communities. The newly honored were:
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Anthony S. Cozzino, FDNY EMS – End of Watch: 9/7/2024
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Mark E. Steffens, FDNY EMS – End of Watch: 11/11/2024
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Robert R. DeLeon, Jr., FDNY EMS – End of Watch: 4/16/2024
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Christopher Swierkowski, FDNY EMS – End of Watch: 5/11/2024
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Stephen J. Walsh, Claussen Raught Community Rescue Squad – End of Watch: 11/16/2024
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication shown by EMS professionals across the state. With heartfelt speeches, the laying of wreaths, and the ceremonial reading of names, the gathering paid tribute to those who gave their lives in service to others.
