On March 23, 2018, Lt. Michael R. Davidson ‘99 was tragically killed while responding to a fifth-alarm fire on a film set in Harlem. Lt. Davidson, a decorated 15-year veteran of the FDNY, and a member of Engine Company 59 at the time of his death, was remembered as a selfless hero and a loving husband and father. The loss of Lt. Davidson has been felt by many in the FDNY and Stanner communities.
Recently, the Floral Park Post Office dedicated its building to the memory of Lt. Davidson. A virtual ceremony was held on March 23, 2021, marking the third anniversary of Lt. Davidson’s passing. The program featured the National Anthem performed by Molloy students Joseph Bruno ‘22 and Molly McGuinness ‘22, an invocation by Msgr. John Delendick, as well as remarks from Postmaster/Master of Ceremonies Harold Bonilla, District Manager Frank Calabrese, US Congresswoman Kathleen Rice, and Molloy President Richard Karsten ’81.
President Karsten offered a Marist perspective: “Michael truly embodies the five pillars of the Marist Identity: Presence – He cared for his family and friends and championed such values in how he treated family, friends, colleagues, and those he served as a firefighter. Simplicity – Michael did many selfless and wonderful things, not for accolades, but simply because it was the right thing to do. Family Spirit – His happiness came from being a husband to Eileen and a father to Brooke, Emily, Amy, and Joseph. Love of Work – While not an easy path, Michael embraced being a firefighter and was committed to the values and beliefs of putting others above self. In the Way of Mary – Michael followed his journey just as Mary did, with faith, love, and quiet strength.”
The newly dedicated Lt. Michael Davidson Post Office Building is located at 35 Tulip Avenue, Floral Park, New York 11001. The ceremony came just weeks after the City Council passed two bills to improve the safety of NYC firefighters. Movie or television sets where pyrotechnics are used now require a safety manager to be present. We continue to pray for Lt. Davidson and his family, and we pray that this new legislation will help save lives in the future.