Bronx Intersection Renamed For Hero Soldier Who Died Saving Family From Fire
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – A Bronx intersection was renamed Friday morning for a National Guardsman who lost his life rescuing people from the city's deadliest fire in 25 years.
Emmanuel Mensah, 28, was among 13 people killed when a five-story apartment building went up in flames on Dec. 28, 2017 in the Belmont section.
Mensah was credited with saving a family of six, including four young children, before firefighters arrived.
A new street sign was revealed Friday in the heart of a close-knit community, and a special Ghanaian ceremony marked the bittersweet morning.
The corner of East 187th Street and Prospect Avenue is now called "Private First Class Emmanuel Mensah Way" in his memory.
"It is my honor to rename Belmont Street for our hometown hero, Emmanuel Mensah. His is a name, a legacy that will never be forgotten," said City Councilman Ritchie Torres.
"I am forever grateful that I had a real-life hero that I can now call my brother," one loved one said during Friday's ceremony. "His soul and his spirit still lives on."
The 28-year-old immigrant from Ghana was home for the holidays and staying with friends when the fire broke out. It was his first trip back since joining the Army the year before.
"We miss him, we hope that he was here with us today, but I know he's here in spirit with us," Ruben Martinez, of the National Guard, said.
MORE: Funeral Services Held For Hero Soldier Killed In Bronx Fire
Mensah's father still lives in the neighborhood and said he will feel a sense of pride every time he walks by the sign, remembering his son died a hero.
"For him to do what he did, and then what the city is doing for him, as well as the family and the neighborhood - I think it's an honor," said Kwabena Mensah. "I think he would be happy."
The Army Private 1st Class posthumously received two medals of valor from Fordham University.
Fire officials said the deadly blaze was sparked by a 3-year-old boy playing with burners on a stove.