In regards to replies #1268 - #1274, I would just like to pass on to the members of this site, an email I received from one of the guys who took part in those events.
(I've included the full names of those we want to thank).
Here is what he said:
My thanks to Chief Jack Kleehass - retired FDNY, Dan Potter - retired FDNY, Chief Ed Kearon - retired FDNY, Captain John Bendick - retired FDNY, Lt Tommy Bendick - Active FDNY, Lt (?) Dave Russell - retired FDNY, Chief Steve Ternlund - retired FDNY, Lt Tim Klett - active FDNY Engine Co 88, FDNY Deputy Chief Jay Jonas - active Division 7, Active and Retired Members of FDNY Ladder Co 108/Engine Co 216 and Batt 35, FDNY Squad Co 8, NYPD ESU 5 on Staten Island, Active Members of FDNY Engine Co 88/Ladder 38, Port Authority of NY/NJ Police/Firefighters of LaGuardia Airport, and Active Members of Engine Co 48/Lad 56.
We Thank You for inviting us to join you. BUT, now it's OUR TURN.
In appreciation for what you have done for us, as a group we plan to make a donation to a charity which in some way, can benefit those of you who treated all of us so good. I plan to make that donation sometime around November 1st. I hope to pass on the name of the charity, as well as the total amount donated.
Finally, from the Senior Man of the outfit, NFD2004, aka "Willy", here's a little song we wanted to share with you.