Daniel Foley, a New York firefighter, has sadly passed away at the age of 46 due to cancer related to his heroic efforts during the 9/11 attacks. His story is one of bravery and dedication to his duty.
The tragic events of September 11, 2001, resulted in the loss of nearly 3,000 lives, including over 400 emergency workers. Among those who responded to the call of duty that day were firefighters like Daniel Foley and his brother Thomas Foley.
Daniel spent an incredible 11 days searching for his brother Thomas in the aftermath of the attacks. Thomas, a firefighter himself, had tragically lost his life while battling the blaze that engulfed the World Trade Center. His brother’s dedication to the rescue efforts was unwavering.
Daniel Foley, a retired FDNY veteran with 21 years of service, has now succumbed to pancreatic cancer, a 9/11-related illness. His passing marks another loss within the FDNY community.
FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro paid tribute to Daniel Foley, saying, “The attacks on the World Trade Center have claimed yet another brave member of our Department, and the Foley family. Daniel Foley, like his brother Thomas who was killed on September 11th, dedicated his life to rescuing others. We will never forget them.”
Thomas Foley had been stationed at the Bronx fire station known as Rescue 3 when he lost his life on that fateful day. In honor of his brother, Daniel transferred to Rescue 3, continuing the legacy of bravery and service.
Lt. Mickey Conboy of Rescue 3 recalled Daniel’s incredible commitment, saying, “Danny’s dedication to the department came down to the World Trade Center, where Danny worked day in and day out looking for his brother and all the people that were killed there that day. On the first night, Danny promised his mother and father he wouldn’t come home until he brought his brother home with him. On the 11th day, Danny miraculously found his brother Tommy in rubble at the World Trade Center.”
Sunflowers left on the South Pool of the #911Memorial as tribute. pic.twitter.com/FPEMvWMXca
— 9/11 Memorial & Museum (@Sept11Memorial) June 3, 2018
Throughout his career, Daniel Foley was recognized for his bravery, receiving citations 10 times. These accolades, four as an individual and six with his unit, reflect his unwavering commitment to saving lives.
Lt. Conboy also emphasized Daniel’s qualities as a person, saying, “Danny’s mark didn’t stop here in the firehouse or at work. Danny was first and foremost a great fireman, but he was a great man before that, and a great father, a great husband to his wife Carrie, and of five loving children that he leaves behind.”
The tragic toll of 9/11 continues to be felt, with over 2,000 deaths attributed to 9/11-related illnesses. Daniel Foley’s sacrifice and dedication serve as a poignant reminder of the heroism displayed by first responders on that tragic day.
Rest in peace, Daniel Foley. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, and we honor his memory and the bravery of all the first responders who risked their lives on that fateful day.