Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Anthony D’Esposito and Councilman Thomas Muscarella today joined family, friends and neighbors of FDNY firefighter and Salisbury resident Daniel Monahan to remember his dedicated service to the community during the renaming of Lydia Lane in Salisbury as Firefighter Daniel M. Monahan Lane. Also attending were Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll, FDNY Captain Doug Mitchel of Ladder 38, members of the FDNY Ceremonial Unit and the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes & Drums.
“Daniel always carried a dedicated and hardworking mindset, something he brought not only to the FDNY but also to the residents of Hempstead Town. He was a hands-on man, even with the smallest of tasks,” said Supervisor Clavin. “Daniel always strived to help others in need and was fearless on the job throughout his career. The Town of Hempstead remembers this dedicated neighbor, firefighter and 9/11 first responder and is proud to dedicate Firefighter Daniel M. Monahan Lane in his memory.”
“Daniel’s determination, drive, and persistence paints the picture of an ideal fireman, something I always strived to be as a member of my own hometown fire department” added Councilman D’Esposito. “It is an absolute honor to be able to eternalize his name in the community he and his family grew up in.”
Monahan first volunteered at the East Meadow Fire Department before passing the FDNY test at 21 years old. He was first assigned to Engine 45 in the South Bronx in 1978. Two years later, Daniel married his high school sweetheart, Gerri, whose family of active firefighters is what originally inspired Monahan and his career path. Shortly after, Monahan was diagnosed with his first cancer. After a series of treatments and chemotherapy, Monahan and his firefighting family persuaded doctors to allow Daniel to continue his dedication to helping others in the community and returned to work. From his series of accomplishments ranging from receiving the Daily News Hero Award to being awarded the Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal for saving a woman’s life, Daniel has always put the well-being of others before his own.
“The Town of Hempstead vows to always pay homage to those who have sacrificed so much for their community,” said Councilman Muscarella. “This street is a tribute to the countless heroic acts conducted by Firefighter Daniel Monahan.”
After retiring from his firefighting career, Daniel became a full-time operating engineer for Local 15. On September 11, 2001, Monahan put his skills and experience to use by going to Ground Zero and assisted with many rescue operations. The following year, Monahan was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia that had no medical cure or treatment. Two years later, Daniel died at the age of 57.
Monahan’s street renaming commenced with bagpiper Robert V. Hughes of the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes & Drums, followed by the FDNY Ceremonial Unit Color Guard. The National Anthem was performed by Joseph Walz of the FDNY Ceremonial Unit. Councilman Muscarella was joined by Monahan’s family in leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an opening prayer by FDNY Chaplain FDNY Rabbi Joseph Potasnik. Remarks were offered by Supervisor Clavin, Councilman D’Esposito and memories were shared from Daniel’s beloved daughter, Meaghan Gray, and close cousin, Nick Arrigan.
Town officials concluded the street renaming event with the presentation of a commemorative street sign to Daniel’s family, followed by the unveiling of a permanent sign at the corner of Lydia Lane and Valentines Road.
Added Councilman D’Esposito, “This street will serve as a permanent memory of Daniel Monahan’s dutiful service to the FDNY and residents not only of this community, but throughout New York State.”
“Daniel Monahan was not just a firefighter. He was a father, a husband, an avid sports player, a New York Rangers fan, a friend, a brother, and much more,” Supervisor Clavin concluded. “His courageous actions and everlasting imprint that he left on the many people he has encountered speaks incredible volumes. The Town of Hempstead is proud to rename this street as Firefighter Daniel M. Monahan Lane.”