Nearly 400 people turned out in Bethpage on Saturday, April 24 for a ceremony to dedicate a post office in memory of fallen September 11 fireman, Captain Brian C. Hickey.

This effort was initiated by Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Mary McCaffery, a Bethpage resident and friend of Hickey. US Congressman Peter King also backed the legislation and it was passed on Nov. 11, 2003. A framed photograph of Hickey will hang beside a cast-iron plaque in the lobby of the new Brian C. Hickey Post Office at 339 Hicksville Rd.

"Brian was a visionary who helped develop new ideas for fighting fires," McCaffrey said.

After a performance by the FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, Bethpage Postmaster Michael Silvestri made opening remarks. US Senator Charles Schumer followed, mentioning those who are alive today because of Hickey's bravery and sacrifice.

"Brian is a beacon to every citizen who believes in good and God," Schumer said. "We must rededicate ourselves to our community. And that is exactly what we are doing when we dedicate this beautiful edifice to him."

Hickey's wife, children, family and friends attended the event as well as dozens of fellow firemen. The crowd gave his sister, Mary Hickey-Truelson, a standing ovation after her speech that offered those present a glimpse into Hickey's life and loves.

"Brian loved Bethpage," Hickey-Truelson said. "It was his haven - a secluded little village with a town and a park and a school. It was here that my little boy Brian, that's what our Dad used to call him, would evolve."

Hickey joined the Bethpage Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 18 and then served four years in the U.S. Air Force, where he achieved the rank of sergeant. When he returned, Hickey remained a volunteer fireman and also joined the FDNY. A few years and transfers later Hickey accepted a captain's position at Rescue 4 in Queens.

Two of his men were killed and Hickey was injured in an Astoria fire on Father's Day in 2001. Hickey, a 20-year FDNY veteran, was put on medical leave until September. His second tour ended at 6 p.m. on September 10, 2003, but he accepted an overtime tour the next morning with another rescue team. That morning he made the ultimate sacrifice.

Picking up where his father left off, Hickey's son, Danny will join the FDNY's probie class this fall.