Firefighters from the station were joined by State Senator John Liu for the ceremony, which celebrated both the FDNY’s continued service and the memory of the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. The mural project, which began last year, was sponsored by Liu’s office in partnership with BB.Q Chicken USA.
Senator Liu, who grew up just a few blocks from the firehouse, reflected on his childhood connection to the station and the pride it instilled in him and his neighborhood friends.
“Just as this firehouse inspired me as a child growing up a few blocks away, I know this beautiful mural will inspire future generations to remember and respect the first responders here in Flushing and throughout New York City who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe,” Liu said.
Captain Paul Agruso of FDNY Ladder 129 added that the station was proud to commemorate the department’s service and sacrifice.
“This mural stands as a lasting tribute to those we lost, and a daily reminder of the values of service, dedication, and safety that define our department,” Agruso said.
The FDNY lost 343 firefighters on September 11, 2001—the greatest single-day loss of life in the department’s history. In the years since, firehouses across New York City have honored that sacrifice with plaques, memorials and artwork.
The mural now stands prominently on the exterior of the Union Street firehouse as a visual reminder of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of New York City’s first responders.
