Benjamin Gilman: “I commend our colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Grucci) for his continued dedication to our Nation's…”

“I commend our colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Grucci) for his continued dedication to our Nation's firefighters and for the work he has done, along with Members on both sides of the aisle in bringing this resolution before the House today. Each year, thousands of men and women risk their lives to protect the lives and property of all of American communities. Sadly on June 17, Father's Day, three firefighters died in their line of duty fighting fire in Astoria, Queens: Brian Fahey and Harry Ford, from Rescue Company 4, and John Downing, from Ladder Company 163, were not only firefighters and fathers, they were prime examples of experienced men that our New York communities have to offer. Brian Fahey was a 14-year veteran, a skilled instructor, who left behind a wife and three children. John Downing had three children and was planning a trip to Ireland; and Harry Ford, who was a father of three, was cited nine different times for his outstanding acts of bravery. All three were Irish Americans whose lives will not be forgotten by their families or their communities. Mr. Speaker, we are here today honoring their lives and giving thanks for their service, promoting the virtue of their profound and unending sacrifices, and most importantly, to join in consoling their families for their loss of lives.”