October 27th, 2022 – Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter joined the family and friends of fallen FDNY firefighter Jesse Gerhard, to symbolically rename South Bay Ave., the Islip street where Jesse was raised, “Firefighter Jesse Gerhard Way.”

A lifelong resident of the Town of Islip, Jesse was two years old when he decided he wanted to become a firefighter, marveling at his great-grandfather’s FDNY helmet. Dedicated to protecting his community, Jesse joined the Islip Fire Department at age 20, devoting more than 12 years, and rising to the rank of Lieutenant.

In 2014, Jesse joined the FDNY as an EMT, serving three years before entering the FDNY Fire Academy in 2017. Upon his graduation in 2018, he was stationed at the “Big House” in Far Rockaway, where he was quickly promoted to “The Truck,” a rare and notable accomplishment for a 30 year old.

Jesse dedicated his life to protect and serve; answering his final call in February of this year, before suddenly passing away while on duty at Ladder 134 just a day after battling a 2nd alarm fire.

On what would be Jesse’s 34th birthday, Jesse's parents, Lynn and Bruce Gerhard, Jesse's brother Casey, sister-in-law Kristi, members of the FDNY, Commissioner, Laura Kavanagh, FDNY, along with members of the Islip Town Board, Islip Fire Department, and the community, joined Jesse's family and friends to honor his life and legacy at a ceremony at the intersection of S. Bay Ave. and Main St.

“Jesse followed his heart and his dreams. His commitment to making the world a better place drove him forward, and he died doing what he loved,” said Supervisor Angie Carpenter. “While we continue to grieve the loss of such an incredible young man, we remember the legacy he left behind, and cherish the memories that continue to keep his spirit alive,” she added.