Tuesday, September 11, 2001

Songs of Love remembers New York Firefighters Vernon Cherry and Leon Smith

As a tribute to New York firefighters Vernon Cherry and Leon Smith, lost in the September 11th World Trade Center tragedy, Songs of Love is making available a free download of the "Song of Love" recorded by Vernon, Leon and fellow firefighters for leukemia patient Crystal Ann Perez.

They are both from Ladder 118. Other members are from Ladder 9/Engine 33. Besides being one of New York's Bravest, Vernon Cherry was a singer in a professional show band. Their gift of song will be treasured forever. We thank them all for going above and beyond the call of duty.
Our deepest sympathies go out to their families.



Leon Smith, John Sorrentino and Vernon Cherry from Ladder 118 at the recording session.



Vernon presents Crystal with a CD of her "Song of Love" and FDNY T-shirt at the Children's Hospital at Montifiore.



Songs of Love founder John Beltzer with Vernon Cherry.



Crystal Ann Perez and Vernon Cherry





The special song was recorded on August 7th, 2001. Vernon Cherry is featured on lead vocals (in blue shirt), and Leon Smith (3rd from right/partially hidden in back) lends his support as part of the chorus.