Fallen firefighter Ambelas honored only weeks earlier
On June 26th, Lieutenant Firefighter Gordon Ambelas and his company (along with two others) were honored by FDNY Commissioner Nigro, Rabbi David Niederman of the United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn, and a family extremely grateful for the FDNY saving the life of their young son, who had been trapped in a role-up gate.
Less than 10 days later, the community was shocked to learn that Lt. Ambelas passed away.
“This tragic story shows the dangers the lieutenant and all FDNY members put themselves in, willingly and knowingly, to save others. They are really the bravest,” said Rabbi Niederman.
On Saturday evening, Ambelas led his members into a two-alarm fire at a 19th floor apartment at 75 Wilson Street in South Williamsburg, searching for anyone who may have been trapped inside. While performing this dangerous work, the Lieutenant became trapped in the fire, and suffered life threatening injuries. He was found unconscious in the apartment by his fellow firefighters, who removed him and tried to revive him, along with EMS personnel. He was transported here to Woodhull Hospital, but, unfortunately, could not be saved.