On October 17, 2024, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, alongside members of the department, families, and friends, gathered in Manhattan to honor the 58th anniversary of the 23rd Street Fire.
This five-alarm fire, which occurred on October 17, 1966, at the Wonder Drug Store on the corner of 23rd Street and Broadway, led to the greatest loss of life in the department’s history before September 11th.
During the fire, the ground floor of the drug store collapsed, resulting in the deaths of twelve firefighters from various ranks, including deputy chief, battalion chief, and probationary firefighter.
As reported by FDNY, this tragic incident has left a lasting mark on the department.
During the wreath-laying ceremony, Fire Commissioner Tucker stressed the importance of remembering the sacrifice made by the firefighters who lost their lives in the 23rd Street Fire.
He said: “As we mark 58 years since the tragic 23rd Street Fire, we once again renew our promise to never forget.”
He thanked those in attendance for continuing to support the families of the fallen members, adding: “It’s a testament to their memory that their loved ones keep showing up, and so we thank you for that. Their bravery will never be forgotten.”
The ceremony honored twelve firefighters from Engine Company 18, Ladder Company 7, Division 3, and Battalion 7 who perished in the line of duty.
The firefighters who made the Supreme Sacrifice include Deputy Chief Thomas A.
Reilly, Firefighter William F. McCarron, Battalion Chief Walter J. Higgins, Lieutenant Joseph Priore, Firefighter James V. Galanaugh, Firefighter Joseph Kelly, Firefighter Daniel L. Rey, Firefighter Bernard A. Tepper, Lieutenant John J. Finley, Firefighter John G. Berry, Firefighter Rudolph F. Kaminsky, and Firefighter Carl Lee.
These twelve men are remembered each year for their bravery and commitment to protecting the people of New York City.
The FDNY’s vow to never forget their sacrifice remains central to its core values.
The annual wreath-laying ceremony has become an important tradition for the FDNY, bringing together department members and families of the fallen to reflect on the dedication and sacrifice of those who lost their lives in the 1966 fire.
The ongoing remembrance is a demonstration of the department’s deep respect for its history and the sacrifices made by its members.
Each year, the ceremony ensures that the memory of these firefighters continues to be honored, while also serving as a reminder of the risks first responders face every day.
The FDNY held a wreath-laying ceremony on October 17, 2024, to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the 23rd Street Fire in Manhattan.
This fire, which occurred in 1966, resulted in the deaths of twelve firefighters after the ground floor of a drug store collapsed during a five-alarm blaze.
Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker, speaking at the event, emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifice made by the firefighters and thanked those who continue to support the families of the fallen.
The firefighters’ bravery and commitment are remembered each year as part of the department’s promise to never forget.
