The FF. Leon W. Smith, Jr. Foundation was established to help promising students achieve their dreams by providing scholarships to support their educational goals. For over 20 years, the foundation has proudly awarded scholarships to help students complete their studies and pursue bright futures.

Leon W. Smith, Jr., a dedicated firefighter, lost his life while helping and aiding others during the tragic events of September 11. His legacy is one of courage, hope, and sacrifice. His deep love for life inspired him to enter the Twin Towers before they collapsed.

To honor Leon’s memory and continue his lifelong mission of helping others, his mother, Irene Smith, founded the Leon W. Smith, Jr. Foundation.

Leon’s heroic spirit shone throughout his life. One story, published in The Brooklyn Heights Press, recalls how he and three fellow firefighters chased down a purse snatcher all the way to the Brooklyn Bridge, where they held the thief until police arrived. Acts like these earned him the nickname “Physical Lee.” His coworkers also called him “Express” because he believed his beloved fire truck—fondly referred to as his “girlfriend”—should always be among the first to arrive at a fire.

On May 5, 2004, Mayor Michael Bloomberg honored Leon by naming a street after him: Firefighter Leon W. Smith, Jr. Memorial Way, located on Hancock Street between Ralph and Patchen Avenues in Brooklyn.