Assemblyman Mike Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) recently attended the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Memorial Dedication at the Empire State Plaza in Albany. The assemblyman was on hand to honor fallen EMS, Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Basic Life Support (BLS) first response personnel, particularly Nesconset Fire Department ex-Chief Ross E. Huffer, who lost his life in the line of duty last year. Huffer was one of two honored at this year’s dedication ceremony.

“Today is a day to remember our fallen first responders and their families,” said Fitzpatrick. “It is my privilege to honor Chief Huffer, a true credit to the Nesconset Fire Department and the ranks of firefighters across Long Island. He gave 48 years of his life to the department and our community. Our thoughts and prayers, along with our thanks for his service, go out to his family.”

Huffer was awarded numerous citations and service medals over the years for his service, including the Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council’s Unit Citation in 1992 and 1994, and the Medal of Valor for saving a resident from a house fire in 1981.

Since 2004, the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services Memorial has honored EMS, ALS and BLS first responders who have fallen in the line of duty while following established laws, regulations, policies and protocols.