Smithtown, NY - During World War II, 58 members of the Smithtown Fire Department served in the armed forces. All returned home safely except for Lt. Percy Forman. This year marks the first time the Smithtown Fire Department will host the annual Memorial Day Parade, and Chief of Department Patrick Diecidue has announced that Lt. Percy Forman will be honored as the 2022 Grand Marshal.
Lt. Percy Forman was a member of the United States Army Air Force, serving in the 315th Squadron of the 324th Fighter Group. He was killed in action over Blickweiler, Germany on March 11, 1945. His memory will be observed by an antique fire engine leading the parade with fire gear aboard to represent his presence. Former Chief Matthew B. Kondenar Jr. will drive this vehicle behind a banner displaying Lt. Forman’s name.
In Smithtown, Lt. Percy Forman has been memorialized in several ways: Percy Street off Lawrence Ave is named in his honor and features a plaque commemorating his actions; within the firehouse halls, an honor roll lists all 58 men who served with a Gold Star next to Lt. Forman's name to signify his sacrifice.
The Smithtown Fire Department continues its tradition of laying a wreath for fallen members each year—a practice that began after Lt. Percy Forman did not return home from war.
This year marks the 77th consecutive year a wreath will be placed on their memorial in remembrance of Lt. Forman’s sacrifice, and for the first time since his passing, members of the department will march alongside him through his hometown streets.