Michael C. Reilly was appointed to the Ramsey Rescue Squad on the 13 August 1997. Mike began his career in the Level 1 program and quickly became one of the most knowledgeable to graduate from it. Mike quickly became one our most valuable members, with a thirst for knowledge and training that I haven’t seen since. Mike had completed Firefighter 1, 2, EMT (National Cert), Hazardous Materials Technician and a multitude of other specialized training. Mike served as Secretary in 1999 and as 2nd Lieutenant in 2002.

Mike started his professional firefighting career with the USMC Marine Wing Support Squadron 472. He endured intense training for specific fire situations involving aircraft. After his training he returned to us and served in the Marine reserves, during this time he was hired as a firefighter at the Morristown airport. While in Morristown he was applying for firefighter entrance exams all over the New York Metro area. Mike was then hired by the U.S. government as a firefighter at West Point. Needless to say that job only lasted a month before Stratford, Conn. called. During his three years in Stratford, Mike was called to active service with the Marines. Mike was deployed for a 9 month tour in Iraq. Upon his return he was called to start the investigation process for the Fire Department of the City of New York. This is what he wanted! Mike’s dream was complete on 3 April 2006 at the start of the fire academy. And three months later at a graduation at Brooklyn College I couldn’t have been prouder then having one of my best friends graduate and receive a top assignment to Engine Co. 75 on Walton Ave. in the Bronx. Who knows how high Mike’s aspirations could have taken him. Lieutenant, Captain, or even a chief officer, we will never know.

In death as Mike did in life he walked without fear and held his head proud. Always remember he was doing what he loved, and lived a life where he accomplished more than most of us ever will. I know he will be watching over us now and until we meet up with him again. “Greater love than this no man hath than to lay down his life for his friends.” Mike you have made us all proud and honored to call you a friend and a brother.

In closing Mike has completed 45 of the 84 months of required service for life membership. I am making a motion to waive the remaining 39 months required and grant him Honorary Life Membership with the Ramsey Rescue Squad for going above and beyond the call in the line of duty. He has upheld the greatest traditions of the FDNY, USMC, Stratford FD, Ramsey Rescue Squad, and Ramsey FD.