FDNY Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro announced his retirement Friday, ending a 50-plus year career with the department. His last day is Feb. 16.
Nigro, a second generation FDNY firefighter, is the fourth longest serving fire commissioner and one of only six individuals to hold every rank in the storied department.
"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,” Nigro said in a statement.
He joined the department on Nov. 29, 1969 and his first assignment was Engine 21 in Manhattan. He worked as a lieutenant at Engine 35 in East Harlem, a captain at Engine 8 in Manhattan, and as a battalion chief in Battalion 19 in the Bronx.
As a battalion chief in 1998, he served in several administrative positions at FDNY headquarters, including the Chief of Personnel and the Chief of the Bureau of Health Services, where he oversaw the medical care and treatment for the department's personnel. In 1993, he was promoted to deputy chief and returned to the field and served in Manhattan's Division 3.
He was promoted to Chief of Operations in 1997, overseeing all operations and training for more than 14,000 uniformed fire and EMS personnel.
He was appointed Chief of Department following the death of his close friend, Chief Peter J. Ganci, Jr. during the Sept. 11 terror attacks. He was then responsible for overseeing all rescue and recovery operations at the World Trade Center site and the unprecedented task of rebuilding the department.
Nigro retired from the department in 2002.
“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,” Nigro said.
Nigro returned to the department in June 2014, when he was appointed as the 33rd Fire Commissioner.
In seven years as commissioner, he oversaw FDNY’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the highest period of medical calls in the city's history and the creation of a vaccination program for FDNY members, city employees, and homebound New Yorkers.
A champion of fire prevention, the city saw an unprecedented period of fire safety with 2021 marking the 16th consecutive year with fewer than 100 fire deaths. His efforts led to the installation and distribution of more than 250,000 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms citywide.
“Dan and I have had an amazing relationship over our long careers in public service. He’s a tireless champion for New Yorkers, and a friend who I’ve leaned on time and again,” Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement. “From overseeing the heroic 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts to leading the FDNY’s unwavering response during the pandemic, Dan has worked tirelessly to protect all New Yorkers. New Yorkers, whether they know it or not, are all safer because of the work he’s done and owe him their thanks. Dan defines public service and will be deeply missed by me and the entire department.”
