Write a commentThe City of Oswego officially rededicated the Edward A. Maxon East Side Fire Station during a ceremony held this morning, honoring the life, service and ultimate sacrifice of Oswego Firefighter Edward A. Maxon.
The ceremony also included the unveiling of new signage that will ensure Firefighter Maxon's name remains prominently displayed on the station for generations to come. City officials, staff and community members gathered this morning for this dedication ceremony.
The dedication serves as a renewed commitment to preserving the legacy of Firefighter Maxon, who gave his life in the line of duty on May 2, 1956, while protecting the residents of Oswego. Following 20 years of dedicated service to the Oswego Fire Department, Maxon made the ultimate sacrifice, leaving behind a legacy of courage, selflessness and devotion to his community and fellow firefighters.
In 1984, City leaders and members of the Oswego Fire Department took steps to preserve his memory with the dedication of a memorial in his honor and the official naming of the facility as the Edward A. Maxon East Side Fire Station. Today's ceremony builds upon that commitment, making his name a permanent and visible part of the facility.
“Today’s ceremony is about more than a sign. It is about remembrance, honoring sacrifice, and ensuring that the courageous men and women who serve our community are never forgotten,” said Mayor Robert A. Corradino. “As Mayor, I believe it is our responsibility not only to recognize the achievements of our community, but also to remember those whose sacrifices helped shape it. For every firefighter who serves in this station, and for every resident who passes by this building, this sign will tell a story. It will remind us of courage in the face of danger, selflessness in service to others, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our community.”
Mayor Corradino also expressed his appreciation to Fire Chief Paul Conzone, members of the Oswego Fire Department, and everyone who contributed to making the project possible. He extended special recognition to the Maxon family and those who have continued to honor and preserve Firefighter Maxon's legacy throughout the years.
City of Oswego Fire Chief Conzone took to the podium to share sentiments about his lifelong history at the Fire Department throughout his life and throughout his ranks, as well as his meaningful experience of learning how the name of the fire department came to be. He shared how the memory and legacy of Edward A. Maxon continues to be honored year after year.
Retired Oswego Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Edward C. Maxon, grandson of Edward A. Maxon, also shared some tearful and personal reflections, speaking on the life of his grandfather, the impact he had not only to his family, but to the Oswego community as a whole.
The rededication serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have dedicated their lives to public safety and the protection of the Oswego community. The City of Oswego remains committed to honoring the men and women who have served, recognizing that their courage and dedication are an enduring part of the City's history.
The Edward A. Maxon East Side Fire Station will continue to stand as a tribute to a firefighter who answered the call of duty without hesitation. His service and sacrifice will forever be remembered by the City of Oswego and the Oswego Fire Department.
