“Bobby’s humanity, empathy, and strength saved the lives of so many of our Boston neighbors. As we mourn this loss, may we carry his example forward in word and deed.”

Video (YouTube)

WASHINGTON – On the House floor, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) delivered a heartfelt speech honoring the life and legacy of Boston Firefighter Robert “Bobby” Kilduff Jr., a Marine Veteran, proud third generation fire fighter, and dedicated father and partner. Rep. Pressley lauded Robert’s legacy of humanity, empathy, and strength in his 24 years of service and his commitment to keeping the people of Boston safe.

A transcript of Congresswoman Pressley’s floor speech is available below and the video is available here.

Transcript: Pressley Delivers Floor Speech Honoring the Life and Legacy of Boston Firefighter Robert Kilduff Jr.

U.S. House of Representatives

June 2, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Boston firefighter Robert “Bobby” Kilduff Jr.

Bobby was a Marine Veteran, a proud third generation firefighter, and a dedicated father to two beautiful children.

For 24 years, he served the Boston Fire Department and kept the people of Boston safe.

Tragically, Bobby died last week while in service to our community, battling a large fire at a home in Dorchester. 

My husband Conan and I extend our deep condolences to his daughter Hannah Jane, his son Mason, his partner Jess, his extended family and the Boston Firefighters Local 718 as they grieve this loss.

His 24-year-old daughter spoke passionately at his funeral in Boston yesterday, she said, “My dad represents everything our world can be if we look out for each other, if we reach out to help first and ask questions later.”

“He used to say that the only thing he loved more than being a firefighter was being our dad.”

Bobby’s humanity, empathy, and strength saved the lives of so many of our Boston neighbors.

As we mourn this loss, may we carry his example forward in word and deed.

I yield.

###