The Naming Of "Firefighter Peter F. McLaughlin Way" In The Borough Of Queens

The first bill, Introductory Number 756, sponsored by Council Member McCaffrey; and four of his colleagues, would add the name "FF Peter F. McLaughlin Way" on the south side of Queens Boulevard between 64th Street and 65th Street in Queens.

Firefighter Peter F. McLaughlin was born in New York City on April 21, 1964 to Ellen and Vincent McLaughlin. He was baptized in St. Nicholas of Tolentine Church in the Bronx. In 1971, his family moved to Coop City and from his earliest years, Peter McLaughlin voiced interest in becoming a firefighter. In January 1977, he moved to Northport, New York where he attended Northport Junior and Senior High School. As a teenager he joined the Northport Fire Department Junior Smoke Eaters, where he learned fire technology and received a certificate from the New York State Firefighters School of Instruction. In 1982, after graduating from high school, he passed the New York City Fire Department Exam.

On August 20, 1982, before joining the Fire Department, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served a four-year tour. In December 1988, he was appointed to the New York City Fire Department and worked with units in the Bronx and Queens, and in June 1993 became a member of the prestigious Rescue Unit #4 in Queens. This unit is one of only four such units in the entire City, and the lone rescue unit in the Borough of Queens.

On October 8, 1995, Rescue Unit #4 responded to a three alarm-fire at an apartment building in Long Island City. Knowing there was a possibility that people may be trapped inside, Peter began searching for survivors. While searching a fourth floor apartment adjacent to the room where the fire began, the fire blew down the ceiling on top of Firefighter McLaughlin, claiming his life and seriously injuring his partner.

Peter's dream had always been to "become a firefighter and a Marine", and he accomplished both goals. During his tour at Rescue 4, he was nicknamed "Sniper" by his fellow firefighters, as a reference to his Marine background, of which he was so proud.

Peter died a hero, doing the job he loved to do for the people of the City of New York. He is survived by his parents Ellen and Vincent McLaughlin and his brother Keith McLaughlin. In view of his dedication to duty, it is fitting that the south side of Queens Boulevard between 64th Street and 65th Street, be named "FF Peter F. McLaughlin Way."

I will first turn to the bill's sponsor and then to any other elected officials wishing to be heard.

Is there anyone in the general audience to be heard in opposition?

Is there anyone in the general audience to be heard in support?