[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 75 (Tuesday, May 2, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E584]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          TO HONOR THE LIFE OF FDNY FIREFIGHTER WILLIAM TOLLEY

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. GRACE MENG

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 2, 2017

  Ms. MENG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with the support of my 
colleague, Congressman Suozzi, to honor the life, service, and bravery 
of New York City firefighter William Tolley, who was killed in the line 
of duty on April 20, 2017.
  Congressman Suozzi and I are saddened that New York has lost such a 
beloved hero. William Tolley was a courageous firefighter with Ladder 
Company 135 in Glendale, Queens and a respected community member on 
Long Island. Thousands attended his funeral at St. Martin of Tours 
Church in Bethpage, Long Island, and many Long Island residents 
decorated their streets with red ribbons in remembrance. William's 
memory was also honored in Queens as the flag at the firehouse of 
Engine Company 286/Ladder Company 135 was flown at half-mast on the 
evening of his death. In addition, many Queens residents paid their 
respects with a makeshift memorial outside the firehouse on Myrtle 
Avenue. We believe that William's dedication to protecting Queens 
citizens from harm and his service to the Queens community will never 
be forgotten.
  As a heroic New York City Fire Department (FDNY) veteran for fourteen 
years, William not only risked his life in the line of duty for his 
profession, but he also volunteered at the Bethpage Fire Department on 
Long Island. Congressman Suozzi and I commend William's unwavering 
selflessness that led him to dedicate both his career and free time to 
protecting fellow community members.
  William was not only a hero in the FDNY, but he was a beloved father, 
husband, brother, friend, and neighbor. Outside of the uniform, William 
enjoyed being the drummer in a heavy metal band and being an active 
presence in his daughter's school. William is survived by his wife, 
Marie, and his 8-year old daughter, Isabella.
  Congressman Suozzi and I offer our deepest condolences to William's 
family, friends, and the FDNY during this difficult time.

                          ____________________