Let us not forget.......

Peter J. Ganci

FDNY Chief of Department- 9/11 Victim

Peter J. Ganci (1946-2001), chief and 33-year veteran of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). Despite his high rank in the department, he was known for being humble, unpretentious, and fond of practical jokes. Ganci started out in the FDNY in the 1960s, fighting fires in Brooklyn and the Bronx. He steadily rose in rank, eventually becoming a battalion chief in the late 1980s. Continuing to advance, Ganci earned more promotions in the 1990s. In 1999, he was selected as acting chief and later was officially named chief of the department. On September 11, Ganci raced to the World Trade Center and remained active on the scene even after the first tower fell. Despite the apparent dangers, he walked toward the collapsed building to coordinate rescue efforts. Then the second tower fell, burying him under several feet of rubble. At his funeral, hundreds of firefighters turned out to say good-bye to their courageous chief. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, daughter Danielle, and sons Christopher and Peter.

The victims of 9/11 lived in a world characterized by terrorism, danger and calamities that eventually came to bear upon them. They were born into, lived and died in this very same world. They probably had forgotten about the treacherous nature of the world. However when danger did strike, many of the victims like Mr. Ganci rose and met it in the eyes. I chose Mr. Ganci because he is a constant reminder to us of the bravery that transcended our world in the face of fear and danger. The bravery and inner strength displayed by the likes of Mr. Ganci cannot be easily forgotten and continues to inspire us to this day. The fear provoked that day is unforgettable and continues to alert us to the dangers that exist in our world. Initially a setback and shock to the world over that transcended cultures, boundaries and beliefs, the events of 9/11 also proved that the humankind is a strong creature that can rise to challenges, overcome fear with bravery and be caring towards one another when required. The bravery that overcame fear and danger that day that has transcended the world and to this day affects our lifestyles and culture. Let us not forget either 9/11 or people such as Mr. Ganci and the rest of the victims.

PRETI, Mattia
St. George Victorious over the Dragon