FDNY Foundation Hosts Annual All-Star Breakfast
September 9, 2014
Spotlight on: Stephen Ruzow
September 22, 2014
FDNY Foundation Marks Anniversary of September 11th Attacks
The FDNY Foundation joins the FDNY in marking the 13th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks that killed 343 members of the FDNY.
Members of the FDNY gather at ceremonies across the city to honor the lives lost that day, including the annual reading of the names at the 9/11 Memorial, a ceremony at FDNY Headquarters in Brooklyn and numerous smaller services throughout the day.
“This is a time for us to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice on that tragic day,” said FDNY Foundation Executive Director Jean O’Shea.
The 343 members of the FDNY who died on Sept. 11, 2001 had more than 4,400 years of experience between them. Each year, the Foundation honors their heroism by helping to fund ceremonies held across the five boroughs.
FDNY Foundation Board Chairman Stephen Ruzow says it’s a privilege for the Foundation to help fund the anniversary ceremonies.
Ruzow saw first hand the heroic efforts of the FDNY that day. Ruzow says he was on West Street when the second plane hit.
“We hear the phrase ‘never forget’ and we know that we never will because we, every year and every day, honor their memories,” he said. “It’s not just about ceremonies. We honor those heroes by continuing their work and by helping the FDNY prevent fires and save lives.”
“The FDNY is better trained, better prepared and better equipped than ever before,” said O’Shea. “That is a tribute to the lives lost that day. Our Board of Directors and our supporters are so grateful to be able to honor their memories by supporting the FDNY in its mission to serve all who live in, work in and visit our great city.”
Since Sept. 11, 2001, 89 FDNY members have died from illnesses related to recovery work at the World Trade Center site.
