Thomas was nominated by his children, previous First Responder Friday honorees Stephanie and Michael Hannan, who said, “Thomas Hannan, a husband, a father, grandfather, veteran and first responder, lived his life for the people around him. He joined the United States Army when he was just 17. He found his calling when he became an EMT with NYC EMS. This is where he met his wife Margaret. Together they raised three children, two of which followed in their footsteps, becoming first responders themselves. Thomas spent 30 years of his life serving the people of New York City, even responding on 9/11. Feeling he had more to give, he joined his hometown’s volunteer ambulance company, Medford Volunteer Ambulance in 2004. He also worked on an ambulance for Coram Fire Department, Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance, Exchange Ambulance of the Islips, and Setauket Fire Department through the years.
Thomas was a born leader and educator. He quickly rose from EMT to Paramedic, then to Lieutenant Paramedic where he spent the remainder of his career. In Medford Ambulance, he served as Second Assistant Chief from 2006-2007 and he served as Chief of the Department from 2007-2008. He always shared his knowledge with new EMTs while adding humor to every situation. He helped paramedic students study and pass their exams. Not only was he a father to three children, he was a father to everyone to climbed into his ambulance. When it came time for his kids to learn the ropes, he was right there every step of the way. Thomas saved countless lives and lives will continue to be saved through his teachings.
In early January, he tested positive for Covid-19 and was hospitalized soon after. He fought as hard as he could to come home to his family and to get back on an ambulance to serve his community. Unfortunately late Wednesday night Thomas lost his battle and passed away. He was honored by his departments with a firematic funeral at Moloney’s Funeral Home in Bohemia on Sunday January 24th. He was laid to rest at Calverton National Cemetary January 25th. He is survived by his wife Margaret, three children Christine, Michael and Stephanie, and his granddaughter Chelsea. His legacy is secure in the lives of all the EMTs and Paramedics he took under his wing. Rest in Peace Chief, we will take it from here”.
R.I.P., Thomas. Thanks for all your contributions to the community.
Cox Media Group
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