New Square Hatzolah and Blooming Grove Join Statewide EMS Memorial Honoring Fallen Heroes

By Rockland Daily Staff

New Square Hatzolah and Blooming Grove EMS joined emergency responders from across New York at the annual EMS Memorial Ceremony held Tuesday at the Empire State Plaza in Albany, where the New York State Department of Health honored five fallen EMS heroes who gave their lives in service to others.

The solemn event, now in its 21st year, added five new names to the Tree of Life memorial - four of whom passed away from illnesses related to their brave response during the 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts, and one who died after suffering a cardiac event while on duty.

Among those who attended and welcomed the groups was Assemblyman Aron Wieder, who expressed his gratitude to everyone who came out to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The ceremony featured a presentation of colors by the FDNY Color Guard, musical tribute by the FDNY Pipes & Drums, and the laying of a memorial wreath by State Health leaders. EMS agencies from across New York, including the Rockland County area, stood in unity to remember their fallen colleagues.

With more than 80,000 EMS professionals answering over 4 million calls each year across New York, the ceremony was both a powerful reminder of the risks they face and a deep expression of gratitude for their service.