‘Selfless dedication:’ Auxiliary officer posthumously honored by NYPD for 9/11 response
Originally published in
Staten Island Advance
on
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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Standing next to the family of the late Taurean Williams-Wells inside the 120th Precinct stationhouse in St. George on Dec. 17, the NYPD ambassador for Staten Island explained to the uniformed officers and supporters present that Williams-Wells’ had a huge impact on the city.
“Taurean volunteered as an auxiliary officer back in 2001 during 9/11,” said Jermaine Williams, who is of no relation to Williams-Wells. “The family should have been there to see him receive an award for volunteering as an auxiliary officer during 9/11.”Nina Salerno, a representative for Scarcella-Spanton also said kind words about the Williams-Wells’ long-term impact on the Staten Island community.
The family of Williams-Wells listened intently in the audience, donning his favorite color, blue, and remembrance shirts bearing his photo, as Williams-Wells was posthumously awarded a certificate of appreciation from the 120th Precinct he served and a New York State Senate proclamation from Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, a Democrat representing the Island’s North Shore.
Nina Salerno, a representative for Scarcella-Spanton also said kind words about the Williams-Wells’ long-term impact on the Staten Island community.
“Taurean dedicated himself to undercover assignments with the NYPD, courageously intervening in gang-related situations to promote peaceful outcomes,” Salerno said. “On Sept. 11, 2001, while many rushed to escape danger, he courageously went toward Ground Zero to lend his support. Taurean will always be remembered for his generosity, courage and selflessness.”
The proclamation concluded by stating that Williams-Wells’ legacy continues to inspire his family, for whom he has become their “Fam First angel.”
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