'Extraordinary' Firefighter Honored By Street Renaming In Brentwood

BRENTWOOD, NY — Volunteer fireman Marcos Ledesma was known for his remarkable spirit, courage and dedication, according to those who knew and loved him.

On July 9, 2022, the Brentwood native's life was tragically cut short in a car accident. He was 31 years old.

Ledesma's legacy will live on not only in the hearts of the Brentwood community that he called home, but with a street renamed in his honor, thanks to community members and Suffolk County officials who gathered on July 10 for a ceremonial renaming of Evergreen Avenue, now known as Marcos Ledesma Way.

Members of the East Brentwood Fire Department, Ledesma's family and friends and Town of Islip officials came together at the intersection of Fulton Avenue and Evergreen Street in Brentwood for the renaming ceremony. The new name serves as a "testament to his unwavering dedication to protecting and serving his community," officials said.

Ledesma was a lifelong resident of Brentwood who "exemplified a remarkable spirit of service from a young age," officials said. He graduated from Brentwood High School in 2009, enlisted in the United States Army and served as a specialist in the Cavalry Scout. In 2010, he deployed to Iraq, where he spent a year in combat, "embodying bravery and commitment to his country."

After completing his military service in 2015, Ledesma returned to Brentwood and joined the East Brentwood Fire Department in May 2020. According to officials, he decided to become a firefighter after he witnessed a tragic accident involving a child which motivated him to protect and serve his community.

Following his death, Ledesma was named Honorary Chief of the East Brentwood Fire Department.

"As we gather to honor Marcos Ledesma's memory, we celebrate his extraordinary legacy—a reminder of the enduring power of service and compassion," said Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter. "Marcos Ledesma's unwavering commitment to safeguarding Brentwood stands as a lasting tribute to his selflessness and courage. His profound impact on our community touched countless lives, inspiring us all to embrace courage, kindness and dedicated service."