On September 11, 2001, Firefighter Kevin J. Smith, FDNY Hazmat Co. #1, lost his life along with his brother firefighters who responded to the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. In his honor, a memorial fund has been established by the Smith family. An outpouring of donations following his death helped establish the fund. The fund awards scholarships to students who choose careers in community service at Island Trees High School in Levittown, New York, the high school Kevin attended.
Kevin became a firefighter with the FDNY in 1978. He was assigned to Engine 233 in Brooklyn from 1978- 1984. In 1984 Kevin became a charter member of of the newly formed Hazardous Materials Company 1 (Haz-Mat 1). Haz-Mat 1 was stationed with engine 288 (now Squad 288) in Maspeth Queens. This is where Kevin spent most of his career and where he was working on September 11, 2001. Kevin had extensive training in hazardous materials including nuclear, biological, and chemical. Kevin also worked with the New York City Mayor's Office of Emergency Management, where he and others planned and prepared for emergencies and possible terrorist attacks. Prior to joining the FDNY Kevin proudly served in the United States Marine Corp.
Kevin is survived by his wife Jerri Smith. His children Brian, Tommy, Christopher, Josephine, Jennifer, stepsons Vincent, Tony and stepdaughter Nicole.
Kevin was also survived by his proud father Harry Smith. Harry passed away in February 2005 after battling Parkinson's Disease. Kevin was one of six children, Margaret, Stephen, Marianne, Cathy and Brian. As well as the proud Uncle of 10 nephews and nieces.
Kevin was an inspiration to everyone around him. He was honorable man. His hard work and dedication to serve others has left a lasting impression on his family. Four of his children have followed his footsteps into public service as police officers, firefighters and by serving in the armed forces. A fifth child is in the process of following his footsteps into the FDNY. We know Kevin is so proud of all of them as he watches over them from above.
Details on the memorial fund:
The Island Trees Alumni Heroes Scholarship was established on October 1, 2001 in honor of FDNY Kevin J. Smith, class of 1972. It was dedicated to Kevin so that his memory may be kept alive in the hearts of students of Island Trees High School, his alma mater. A plaque was placed in the high school lobby and all students who walk passed it every day are reminded of the courageous path he left after leaving our doors and the ultimate sacrifice he made on that fateful day.
Not only have scholarships been awarded on every graduation day since 2001, the fund has also benefited families of sick children, children who have suffered the loss of a parent and Hope House. The Kevin Smith Memorial Fund has generated nearly $35,000, providing fifty scholarships and over twenty Armed Forces Awards to high school students entering a branch of the United States Armed Forces, as Kevin did.
Funds have been raised from a variety of sources such as donation from ITHS graduates, family and friends of the Smith Family, the annual ITHS talent show, and most importantly, this golf outing.
On behalf of the Family of Kevin Smith, and those students and children who will benefit from your generosity, we thank you sincerely for your donations.
