972 Nicolls Road Deer Park NY
Deer Park Firefighters Training Center
The Downey family is looking forward to gathering once again for the 25th Anniversary of the D.C. Raymond M. Downey “Forever Running” Memorial 5K Run/Walk, and we warmly invite you to join us in continuing this meaningful tradition.
This event is our way of honoring the memory of our Dad, Chief Raymond M. Downey, as well as all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and those who have since passed from 9/11-related illnesses. Each year, your presence helps keep their legacy alive in a powerful and heartfelt way.
We are deeply grateful for the incredible support and love shown by the Deer Park community and the running community over the past 25 years. Your participation, encouragement, and commitment have made this event not only possible, but truly special. For those who are unable to attend in person, we are once again offering a Virtual 5K Run so you can still be part of the day, no matter where you are.
Thank you to our family, friends, volunteers, and all who have taken part over the years. Your continued support means more to us than we can ever fully express.
We hope to see you at the starting line.
After serving with the U.S. Marine Corps in the Middle East, Ray Downey was appointed to the New York City Fire Department in 1962. Chief Downey’s phenomenal 39-year career with the FDNY was built upon success after success and rescue after rescue. One of the most decorated men in the department, Chief Downey received five individual medals for valor and 16 unit citations. Additionally, referred to as “The Master of Disaster” and “God”, Downey, commanding officer of the Special Operations Command (SOC), died in the line of duty while helping others escape from the fire and collapse scene of the World Trade Center on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. He was truly a legend in his own time.
The Deputy Chief Raymond M. Downey Scholarship Charity Fund All proceeds from the race will benefit the organizations supported by the family of Ray Downey.
As a tribute to Chief Downey's legacy, his family has established the D.C. Raymond Downey Scholarship Charity Fund to keep his memory alive and to benefit the many organizations that Chief Downey cherished.
The measure was introduced by Rep. Steve Israel (D-Dix Hills). Downey is the second victim of the Sept. 11 terror attacks Congress has considered naming a post office after.
Downey was chief of rescue operations and a city firefighter for 39 years. He oversaw rescue efforts at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in 1995 and at the 1993 bombing attack at the World Trade Center.
"He's a national treasure," Israel said.
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Deputy Chief Raymond Downey Scholarship Charity Fund
Post Office Box 223
Deer Park New York, 11729
