UFANYC.org
by UFA President James Slevin
This week we mourn the deaths of two of New York City’s firefighters. One passed on Sunday, January 22 and the other on Monday, January 23 due to the results of cancer caused by their service at the World Trade Center site following the 9-11 attacks.
- FF. Kevin Rooney of Engine Company 42 in the Bronx (Age 38)
- Ret. FF Brian Masterson of Marine Company 9 in Manhattan (Age 61)
Both of these firefighters were active and healthy before 9-11. Rooney was still an active firefighter, and after a yearlong battle with World Trade Center-related cancer he passed away on Sunday. Masterson, who was retired from Marine Company 9 in 2015, and also worked in Ladder 45 located in Manhattan from 1990-2009, passed away on Monday.
Both members were involved with the rescue & recovery efforts at Ground Zero for many weeks & months in 2001. Kevin as a NYPD member & Brian as FDNY.
As a result of the 9-11 attacks on our nation, our New York City Firefighters have been getting sick and dying in high numbers due to cancers and other diseases caused by breathing the toxic air at the World Trade Center.
The deaths of Ret. FF. Brian Masterson and FF. Kevin Rooney are unfortunate reminders that New York City Firefighters and other first responders continue to suffer from the aftermaths of 9-11. More than 15 years after the tragic event, 124 firefighters and fire officers have passed away due to 9-11-related illnesses.
On behalf of the UFA Executive Board and the entire union membership, we extend our sincerest condolences to their families and to those they served with. New York City and the country will never forget the sacrifices that Kevin and Brian and many more of our brave firefighters have made.
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