Collins Block Memorial & Graduation Ceremony

Saturday, February 3, 2024, marks the 85th anniversary of the deadly 1939 Collins Block Fire in Downtown Syracuse. We shall never forget our fallen members who perished in the line of duty. The call of duty continues, and our department continues to grow with the addition of our brave and dedicated new recruits.

I cordially invite you to join me, Mayor Walsh, and members of the Syracuse Fire Department as we honor the nine Syracuse firefighters who were killed in the Collins Block Fire and the 33 other Syracuse firefighters who have died in the line of duty. Class A uniforms are welcomed but not necessary.

The agenda for the day is as follows:

  • 8:00 AM – Retiree and active members Meet and Greet with coffee and donuts at Park Central Presbyterian Church, located directly across the street from Firefighter’s Park at 504 E. Fayette St.
  • 9:30 AM – The Collins Block Memorial Ceremony will occur at Fayette Firefighters Park.
  • 10:00 AM – Recruit graduation ceremony for our current recruit class, held at Park Central Presbyterian Church.
  • 11:15 AM – Brunch provided by Local 280.

Please join us in remembering our fallen firefighters and welcoming our newest additions to the Syracuse Fire Department. Please RSVP your attendance at cbalduzzi@syr.gov.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Monds
Chief of Fire

Collin Block Memorial Invitation Letter