Fallen FDNY firefighter Jesse Gerhard was honored recently when the Town of Islip symbolically renamed South Bay Avenue in Islip to Firefighter Jesse Gerhard Way. Gerhard, who was only 33-years-old when he collapsed at Ladder 134 in Queens just one day after battling a 2nd alarm fire.
Gerhard, who grew up on South Bay Avenue, joined the Islip Fire Department at age 20, devoting more than 12 years, and rising to the rank of Lieutenant. In 2014, he joined the FDNY as an EMT, serving three years before entering the FDNY Fire Academy in 2017. Upon his graduation in 2018, he was stationed at the “Big House” in Far Rockaway, where he was quickly promoted to “The Truck,” a rare and notable accomplishment for a 30 year old.
On what would be Jesse’s 34th birthday, Jesse's parents, Lynn and Bruce Gerhard, Jesse's brother Casey, sister-in-law Kristi, members of the FDNY, Commissioner, Laura Kavanagh, FDNY, along with members of the Islip Town Board, Islip Fire Department, and the community, joined Jesse's family and friends to honor his life and legacy at a ceremony at the intersection of South Bay Ave. and Main St.
“Jesse followed his heart and his dreams. His commitment to making the world a better place drove him forward, and he died doing what he loved,” said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “While we continue to grieve the loss of such an incredible young man, we remember the legacy he left behind, and cherish the memories that continue to keep his spirit alive.”