Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Dwight Williams (212) 788-2972
"Today, we dedicate this plaque in memory of a great firefighter and a great man, James Williams," Mayor Giuliani said. "During his 12 years as a member of Ladder 121, Jimmy was a hero many times over. He made several rescues during his distinguished career and in 1991 was awarded one of the highest medals that the Fire Department can bestow, 'The Holy Name Society Medal.' Jimmy knew what it meant to save lives, and like all firefighters he did so without hesitation or thought to his own safety. But beyond his extraordinary courage and valor as a firefighter, Jimmy will always be remembered as a loving husband and devoted father -- a great son and brother. To his proud parents, wonderful wife and three beautiful children, the people of this City recognize the grave sacrifice you have made and know that Jimmy will always be remembered as a great hero of our City."
"Jimmy Williams was a member of a proud firefighting family who gave his life in service to his fellow firefighters and all New Yorkers," Fire Commissioner Von Essen said. "He was a decorated firefighter who just one year before had been awarded a Medal of Valor for saving the lives of an entire family. In addition to being a heroic firefighter, he was also a dedicated father and husband. His memory will always have a special place in our FDNY family."
On January 6, 1996, Firefighter James Williams died of injuries he sustained fighting a second-alarm fire at the Beach 41st Street houses in Far Rockaway, Queens the previous evening.
Firefighter James Brian Williams was appointed to the New York City Fire Department September 7, 1983. Upon his graduation from the Training Academy, he was assigned to Ladder Company 121 in Far Rockaway where he served courageously for 12 years. Firefighter Williams' unit was cited several times for its bravery and Firefighter Williams was individually recognized in 1991 for saving six members of a family from a fire at the Edgemere Projects in Arverne. He received the Holy Name Society Medal for this act of bravery.