Kings Park Street Named For Late 9/11 First Responder

KINGS PARK, NY — A Kings Park street was dedicated in honor of the late James J. Hurson on Saturday, July 9. Hurson was an FDNY firefighter (Engine 318, Brooklyn) and 9/11 first responder.

State and town officials joined the Hurson family, FDNY, Kings Park Boy Scout Troop 75, Greenlawn American Legion Riders, and a sea of community members at Ellen Place for the dedication, the Town of Smithtown announced.

Hurson was a Kings Park native and retired FDNY firefighter who died on May 22, 2018, because of illnesses related to his service during the massive, months-long recovery mission at the remains of the collapsed World Trade Center buildings.

Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, State Senator Mario Mattera, Councilman Tom Lohmann and Town Clerk Vincent Puleo stood beside Hurson’s family (Wife; Lori, Sons; James & Michael), friends and relatives to formally unveil the street dedication at Ellen Place in Kings Park.

“We are all gathered here today to celebrate the life, legacy and memory of fallen FDNY and 9/11 First Responder James J. Hurson," Wehrheim stated. "They say a Hero dies twice. Once upon his death and again when their name has been forgotten. Between the family and friends here with us, the many wonderful memories shared today, and this dedication… I think it’s safe to say that no one will ever forget the name of James J. Hurson. It’s an honor for me to be here with you to celebrate the life of a fellow Kings Park brother, who stepped up to serve during our Country’s darkest hours."

Both of Hurson's sons, James (Lieutenant James Hurson FDNY Engine 68) and Michael, have followed in Hurson’s footsteps, serving in FDNY, which is recognized as the busiest and most highly-skilled emergency response agency in the world, the Town of Smithtown stated.

On Sept. 11, 2001, the FDNY lost 343 members at the World Trade Center site and have since lost approximately 253 more who later died of illnesses related to working rescue at Ground Zero.

Mattera presented the family with a New York state Senate Proclamation for Hurson’s dedication to serving the public after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11th, 2001. Remarks and memories were shared by Hurson’s niece, Chrissy Senft, followed by a speech made by Lt. James Hurson (FDNY Engine 68) prior to the unveiling.

“This is a truly fitting tribute to Firefighter Hurson that will help ensure that his service to our community will never be forgotten," Mattera said. "During the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, he was there when our state and our nation needed him and we hope his family knows that his efforts are very appreciated and will always be honored in the Town of Smithtown.”