For First Time, Cancer-Stricken FDNY Firefighters will be Honored at NFFF Service

The names of 24 FDNY firefighters killed by cancer linked to their work at Ground Zero on Sept. 11 will be added to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial next month.

They will be among the 112 firefighters honored Oct. 9 at the 35th annual memorial service at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, MD.

"We found out last month that NIOSH had determined the firefighters' deaths were directly related to 9/11," explained NFFF Executive Director Ron Siarnicki, adding that the plaque at the memorial will include their names. 

NIOSH Researcher Dr. John Howard's research showed 40 responders' cancers were caused by the dust and toxins in the rubble, he said, adding that police officers also were among the victims.

If it's documented that the cancer was specifically caused by a firefighter's work, the families may be eligible for PSOB and other benefits. 

Originally, the NFFF  was planning to honor 88 firefighters including 79 who died in 2015.

"The staff has made the proper adjustments that came along with the additional firefighters such as hotel rooms and  travel arrangements," he said.

Siarnicki noted that the foundation depends on donations for every aspect of its mission including the memorial weekend events and programs.

"We were created by Congress, but we aren't funded," he said, adding that the foundation holds events such as stair climbs and golf tournaments to raise money. 

Volunteers from across the country, including survivors of fallen firefighters, travel to Emmitsburg to assist with a myriad of tasks. 

The national memorial service that starts at 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 9 is open to the public.