Fallen FDNY Firefighter from Wantagh to Be Honored

A Wantagh man, who was among six firefighters killed in one of New York City's worst fires 50 years ago, will be honored next month at the site of the deadly blaze.

Capt. William Russell of Wantagh lost his life at age 43 responding to the Oct. 29, 1962 fire at a former soap factory in Maspeth, Queens. Also killed fighting the blaze were fellow New York City firefighters Francis Egan, 29, of Merrick, Richard Andrews, 25, of Jamaica, James Marino, 29, of Corona; Richard Gifford, 24, of Bellerose and George Zahn, 25, of Jackson Heights. 

Peter Keane, who owns a body shop at the location of the five-alarm fire, told Newsday he will be dedicating a plaque that honor the 50th anniversary of those killed that fateful day.

From Newsday (subscription required):    

Keane has ordered the plaque with the names of the firefighters inscribed and plans to mount it at the entrance of his building. He's working with the fire department to organize a dedication ceremony.