WASHINGTON, DC - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill, introduced by Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland), to re-name the Tuckahoe Post Office in memory of Ronald “Ronnie” Bucca. Bucca, a New York City firefighter, was killed in the September 11th attacks.
“For more than two decades, Ronnie Bucca dedicated his life to protecting the people of New York, and this bill would honor his memory and sacrifice,” said Lowey. “I thank my colleagues in Congress for their help in permanently memorializing Ronnie’s bravery and courage.”
Ronnie Bucca was a 23-year veteran of the New York Fire Department (FDNY) serving in various units throughout the five boroughs including Rescue 1 and the FDNY Terrorist Task Force. In 1992, he was promoted to Fire Marshal. He also served in the military for 29 years, including service as a Special Forces Green Beret and in the 101st Airborne Division. For his brave service to our nation, the military has also honored Ronald Bucca. When the 800th Military Police Brigade took command of British Enemy Holding Area Freddy in Southern Iraq, it was promptly renamed Camp Bucca.
On the morning of September 11th, 2001, Bucca was one of just two fire fighters to reach the fire floor in the South Tower. The men made it to the 78th floor where they began stretching a hose line to protect victims of the attack. He was the first Fire Marshal to be killed in the line of duty.
Because Tuckahoe had been Bucca’s home for more than twenty years, Congresswoman Lowey introduced legislation in March 2006 to honor his memory by re-dedicating the Tuckahoe Post Office the Ronald Bucca Post Office.
“In Iraq, Camp Bucca is named in Ronnie’s honor, and I feel we should honor his memory here at home as well,” said Lowey. “Ronnie Bucca was a hero in every sense of the word, and I am proud Congress has moved to recognize someone who dedicated his life to protecting the people of New York.”
The bill has been co-sponsored by every member of the New York Congressional delegation. It will now await passage in the U.S. Senate.
