Community Corner

ICYMI: Kings Park Street Named For Late 9/11 First Responder

Check out this story from earlier in the week on Kings Park Patch.

Ellen Place in Kings Park was dedicated on Saturday, July 9, in honor of fallen FDNY firefighter and 9/11 first responder James J. Hurson.
Ellen Place in Kings Park was dedicated on Saturday, July 9, in honor of fallen FDNY firefighter and 9/11 first responder James J. Hurson. (Town of Smithtown)

KINGS PARK, NY — A Kings Park street was dedicated in honor of the late James J. Hurson on Saturday, July 9. Hurson was an FDNY firefighter (Engine 318, Brooklyn) and 9/11 first responder.

State and town officials joined the Hurson family, FDNY, Kings Park Boy Scout Troop 75, Greenlawn American Legion Riders, and a sea of community members at Ellen Place for the dedication, the Town of Smithtown announced.

Hurson was a Kings Park native and retired FDNY firefighter who died on May 22, 2018, because of illnesses related to his service during the massive, months-long recovery mission at the remains of the collapsed World Trade Center buildings.

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Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, State Senator Mario Mattera, Councilman Tom Lohmann and Town Clerk Vincent Puleo stood beside Hurson's family (Wife; Lori, Sons; James & Michael), friends and relatives to formally unveil the street dedication at Ellen Place in Kings Park.

"We are all gathered here today to celebrate the life, legacy and memory of fallen FDNY and 9/11 First Responder James J. Hurson," Wehrheim stated. "They say a Hero dies twice. Once upon his death and again when their name has been forgotten. Between the family and friends here with us, the many wonderful memories shared today, and this dedication… I think it's safe to say that no one will ever forget the name of James J. Hurson. It's an honor for me to be here with you to celebrate the life of a fellow Kings Park brother, who stepped up to serve during our Country's darkest hours."

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