In the 9/11 terror attacks (11 September 2001), the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) lost 343 of its first responders to rescue and recovery efforts at the Twin Towers.
22 years later, an equal number of firefighters have died from illnesses related to 9/11.
9/11
Nearly 3,000 people were killed on 11 September 2001 in targeted terror attacks. Planes flew into the Twin Towers in New York City and the Pentagon (defence department headquarters) in Virginia.
Thousands more have died in the years since 9/11. This includes deaths from illnesses caused by exposure to asbestos and other toxic particles in the air after the attacks.
According to the FDNY, 11,000 of their first responders suffer from 9/11-related illnesses, including 3,500 with cancer.
FDNY first responders death toll
In the last week, FDNY emergency medical responder Hilda Vannata died from cancer, and retired firefighter Robert Fulco died from pulmonary fibrosis.
According to FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, the first responders’ conditions were “both a result of time they spent working in the rescue and recovery at the World Trade Centre site” on 9/11.
Kavanagh said their deaths marked “a sombre, remarkable milestone.”
“343 of our heroes lost in one day, and today, 343 more. The FDNY will never forget them.”
The Commissioner said the Department’s responsibility to its members “extends far beyond” the “service and sacrifice” that was asked of them during and after 9/11.
“We will not stop pushing until all our members have the care they deserve, for the rest of their
lives.”
