NEW YORK — FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro presided over the promotion ceremony for 35 EMS Officers at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn on Wednesday.
“In 2019, FDNY EMS responded to more than 1.5 million medical emergencies — the most the FDNY has ever responded to in a single year,” said Commissioner Nigro. “As new Lieutenants, these promoted members will play a critical leadership role at many of the incidents we face, ensuring the safety of our patients and EMS personnel.”
This promotion ceremony was particularly special for Lt. Michael Toomey, son of Firefighter John Toomey, who made the supreme sacrifice at a fire in 1987. Lt. Toomey contributes his passion and love of the department to his father.
“My dad was an FDNY Firefighter at Ladder 123. I was four years old when he died in the line of duty,” said Lt. Toomey. “My mom used to tell me how much he loved his job and this Department. I have two daughters, Lorelai and Emilia. Emilia is just a week old, and I hope to instill a work ethic in them the same way my father did to me.”
At the ceremony, 35 Paramedics were promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Their experiences include preparing emergency response to major events, managing mass casualty incidents across the five boroughs, and ensuring the safety of millions of New Yorkers.
Lt. Josephine Kwok emphasized the importance of being an officer.
“Being able to help people is really what drew me to this work. I love medicine and after learning more through my coworkers I found out what a difference we can make in people’s lives,” said Lt. Kwok. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to give a strong voice to all the people I work with every day.”
Chief of EMS Lillian Bonsignore praised the promotees for their dedication and commitment.
“The FDNY Emergency Medical Service is incredibly important for our city and the people we serve,” said Chief Bonsignore. “Having already been committed to saving lives, caring for others, and providing outstanding medical care, the leadership and guidance you will now provide is the reason we’re not only the busiest — but the absolute best.
The promoted members will be assigned to stations across the five boroughs.
