New York City Fire Department (FDNY)· April 27 ·  The Department is mourning the loss of Supervisor of Mechanics Thomas Ward, 60, who died today due to COVID-19. He served the Department for 26 years, starting as an auto mechanic in the Bureau of Fleet Services. His most recent assignment was as supervisor of the Ambulance Shop, responsible for the repair and maintenance of the Department’s entire fleet of ambulances.

“Thomas Ward is one of the many talented professionals who ensured day in and day out that the Department was ready to respond to every call for help that came our way,” said Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “His leadership and skills made certain our ambulances arrived quickly to help New Yorkers experiencing a medical emergency and that they would arrive safely at the hospital for additional care as well. The entire Department mourns his loss.”

A resident of Massapequa, Mr. Ward served as a volunteer Firefighter at the Massapequa Fire Department for 32 years. In the FDNY, his years of experience and easy-going demeanor made him a valuable asset when handling difficult assignments and training new employees. He was known as a “gentle giant” who greeted everyone with a smile. He is survived by his two sons, and his sisters and brothers.