Senator Bruno was joined today at the Empire State Plaza by Governor George E. Pataki, as well as other state dignitaries, to honor the heroic lives of the 26 men whose names have been added to the Memorial Wall for the 2004 ceremony.

"According to Webster�s Dictionary, a hero is defined as �a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities; one that shows great courage.� If I could add just one word to this definition today, it would be �firefighter�," said Senator Bruno. "As we stand in front of this great memorial, we can be sure that each name engraved herein can truly be honored as a hero."

This year�s addition of 26 fallen firefighters brings the total to 2,283 heroes� names etched in granite on the Memorial Wall. Seven of these 26 firefighters gave their lives in the line of duty in 2003, and the other 19 are from previous years, including four from 1906. The earliest name on the wall is from the year 1811.

Hundreds of firefighters from across the state, along with the New York City Pipe & Drum Corps, paid their respects to the surviving families and friends of all firefighters who gave their lives in the line of duty .

"Today is an occasion to salute these fallen heroes, to comfort their families and to remember their extraordinary service to our state," said Senator Bruno. "I am proud to extend my deepest appreciation to this distinguished group of New Yorkers and to recognize their exceptional dedication tot he safety of our citizens, communities and state."