I don’t mean to be snarky but after 13 years these stories are no less sad, no less infuriating, and they will remain so until there are no more stories. ~Bill
Article by: ULA ILNYTZKY , Associated Press in the Star Tribune
Photo: Stan Honda, Associated Press / Star Tribune photo galleries
3 retired NY firefighters who worked at ground zero die from 9/11-related illness on same day
NEW YORK — Three retired firefighters who worked at ground zero have died on the same day from 9/11-related illnesses, fire officials said Thursday.
Lt. Howard Bischoff and firefighters Robert Leaver and Daniel Heglund died within hours of each other on Monday.
Their deaths are “a painful reminder that 13 years later we continue to pay a terrible price for the department’s heroic efforts,” Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said in a statement.
The three were among thousands who aided in the rescue and recovery effort at ground zero after the attacks on the World Trade Center.
“On that day when first responders arrived, the air was toxic and remained toxic for many months afterward,” said Jake Lemonda, president of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association.
The Fire Department of New York lost 343 firefighters on 9/11. Many more are battling illnesses believed to stem from the contaminated air at the site.
The three deaths Monday raise to 92 the number of firefighters who died of illnesses directly related to the search for survivors. Their deaths come as advocates are urging Congress to reauthorize the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which provides medical treatment and compensation to those who got sick because of exposure to toxic air after Sept. 11
Bill Salvatore is a member of Heroes Home Advantage, a cash back program for Real Estate buyers and sellers. The program honors Veterans and Active Military Members, Fire Fighters and First Responders, EMTs and Emergency Medical Personnel, Nurses, and Teachers. Through the Heroes Home Advantage program, Realtors give a portion of their commission back to the hero in the form of assistance with closing costs.
Bill is also President of the Phoenix Chapter of VAREP, Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals. VAREP is focused on education and employment, making real estate transactions smoother and easier for Veterans and Military Personnel, and instructing other real estate related professionals in the best procedures for dealing with these transactions. VAREP is a nationwide non-profit organization with an impressive presence in the Phoenix area.
In founding AZVHV, Arizona Veterans Helping Veterans, Bill has spread his dedication to Veterans and Military throughout the real estate industry. An increasing number of local professionals have joined Bill in offering discounts to these heroes, not only when buying or selling a home but in all aspects of homeownership. AZVHV has developed a wide range of services and is gaining momentum every year. Membership is free. Bill’s only requirements are that businesses be legitimate and willing to offer a discount on their services to Veterans and Military Members.
You can contact Bill at Realty Executives East Valley, 1166 E Warner Rd. Suite 117, Gilbert AZ, 85296. Direct Phone: 602-999-0952. E-Mail: golfarizona@cox.net. Web: www.yourValleyProperty.com. Helpful web sites and blogs: www.AZVHV.wordpress.com / www.cashbackforheroes.wordpress.com / www.VAREP.wordpress.com
