The plaque is blessed outside of Engine 10/Ladder 10.
FDNY members gathered outside Engine 10/Ladder 10 on Aug. 16 to remember two heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in 2007 – Firefighters Robert Beddia, Engine 24, and Joseph Graffagnino, Ladder 5.
The firefighters died while battling a fire at 130 Liberty St. on Aug. 18, 2007.
“We’re here to make sure that despite the passage of time, no one forgets what happened here six years ago,” Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano said. “We are forever grateful for their service.” The plaque is located on the outside of Engine 10/Ladder 10, immediately next to the World Trade Center Tribute Wall. The firehouse is across the street from where the tragedy occurred.
“We know that the thousands of people who come by this location every day will pause, reflect and gain respect for all that firefighters do every day,” Chief of Department Edward Kilduff said.
Members from Engine 24 and Ladder 5 attended the event, along with the firefighters’ families.
“He was a wonderful kid, what else can I say?” said Joseph Graffagnino, Sr. He is the father of Firefighter Graffagnino, who was posthumously promoted to lieutenant. “I want to thank everyone who helped make this happen.”
