The FDNY Foundation Congratulates FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro on his Retirement

The FDNY Foundation Board of Directors congratulates FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro on his announcement to retire after serving New York City across seven decades. 

“Since the day I raised my right hand 53 years ago and followed my father into the greatest fire department in the world, I have been blessed, privileged, and truly honored to serve the people of our great city,” said Fire Commissioner Nigro. “On days of triumphant rescues and during times of unimaginable loss, the members of the FDNY — our firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, fire marshals, fire inspectors, and civilian staff — have always answered the call. They are extraordinary people and are deeply committed to protecting the lives and property of all New Yorkers. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as their Fire Commissioner.

 During his time in office, Fire Commissioner Nigro was a champion for fire and life safety programs, particularly in at-risk communities across the five boroughs.

 “On behalf of the Board of Directors of the FDNY Foundation, I want to thank Commissioner Nigro for his dedication to public safety in New York City,” said FDNY Foundation Chairman Stephen Ruzow. “It was a true honor to work alongside a person who took the very first steps to lead the Department out of its darkest day on September, 11, 2001, when he was elevated to the role of Chief of Department with the death of his longtime friend, Chief of Department Peter J Ganci, Jr.”   

Commissioner Nigro was appointed the 33^rd fire commissioner in June 2014. As fire commissioner, he oversaw the FDNY’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the highest period of medical calls in New York City history and the creation of a vaccination program for FDNY members, city employees, and homebound New Yorkers. During his tenure, the department executed a recruitment campaign that led to the most diverse group of applicants in FDNY history; with more women and people of color now serving as New York City firefighters than at any point in the department’s 157-year history.  

Commissioner Nigro also expanded fire safety education efforts, launching programs that have installed and distributed more than 250,000 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms citywide and continued an unprecedented period of fire safety with 2021 marking the 16^th consecutive year with fewer than 100 fire deaths. 

Commissioner Nigro’s long career with the Department started on November 29, 1969, in Manhattan at Engine 21 where he served as Firefighter. Commissioner Nigro is only the sixth individual to hold every rank in the agency’s history.

The FDNY Foundation wishes Commissioner Nigro a happy and healthy retirement!