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February 20, 2020I t’s Valentines Day and it’s time to celebrate FDNY love. Since it’s also #FlashbackFriday, we’re dedicating this year’s spotlight to two of our most romantic first responders of 2019. You probably saw both members on our social media last year since they both popped the big question in a grand way. Join us today in learning more about Engine 65 Firefighter Michael Terriberry and Station 17 EMT Frederick Benjamin. They not only know how to save lives, they also know how to capture love.
Join FDNY: Let’s talk about the proposal. It was on New Year’s Eve in Times Square right after 2020 arrived. Why did you choose that special moment?
Firefighter Michael Terriberry: I just felt I had to profess my love for
on the biggest stage in the world. It was very fitting for us as a couple also since we both work and spend a lot of our time in the area and she deserved something spectacular.Join FDNY: You also proposed right after working at your firehouse with some of the Engine 65 Firefighters nearby. Tell us a little bit about why you love your career and the FDNY family?
FMT: I have seventeen years now with the FDNY at Engine 65 in Manhattan. Being a Firefighter is very fulfilling and enjoyable. It’s not just a job, it’s a way of life. This career is more than just putting on the gear and responding to calls. As part of the FDNY, you have a family welcoming you and teaching you. Throughout my career, I’ve learned life skills and grown so much with the best friends I will have for my whole life.
Join FDNY: It’s Valentine’s Day and today is known as one of the most romantic days of the year. How will you two be celebrating?
FMT: We always celebrate Valentine’s Day! We are either in the city and we like to go see a Broadway show and have dinner after or we stay at home and cook a romantic dinner.
Join FDNY: Have you started wedding planning yet?
FMT: Yes we have and our family and friends are happy we have chosen to take this next step in our journey together.
Watch Terriberry’s romantic proposal here.
Join FDNY: Let’s talk about the proposal. It was right after your graduation from the EMS Academy this past October. That was a pretty big day. Why did you choose that special moment?
EMT Frederick Benjamin: Ashley has been my entire support system since we began dating and the support she gave me throughout the Academy really meant a lot to me. As I progressed into my new career that I will be dedicating my life to, I realized also that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her. My graduation was a unique time and it symbolized the beginning of a commitment in a career that will be a major part of my life and I figured why not let that day also be the start of a lifelong commitment with her.
Join FDNY: It’s Valentine’s Day and today is known as one of the most romantic days of the year. How will you two be celebrating?
EFB: We gather with family and friends and make the day special for the women that continue to demonstrate their support and commitment. It’s a great opportunity to show someone you love them. I do gestures to try and make the day extra special.
Join FDNY: Have you started wedding planning yet?
EFB: Yes and we’re excited about it.
Join FDNY: You’ve been on the job a few months now. How has it been going so far?
EFB: I absolutely enjoy every aspect of what I am doing now as an EMT. Since I’ve started, the fulfillment and satisfaction is exactly what I thought it would be. I come from a long family history of FDNY members. My mother Carol Benjamin was a Lieutenant at Station 54 in Queens before she retired and I grew up around all things EMS. As a kid, I knew nothing but great EMTs and Medics, so choosing this career was a no-brainer for me. I believe we all have something that we are passionate about and mines is helping people. I love how rewarding it is when I’m helping others and it affects them positively.
Watch Benjamin’s romantic proposal here.