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George Howard Obituary
Sept. 11 was the second time that George Howard, a Port Authority police officer, was enjoying a day off when he heard that there was trouble at the World Trade Center. It was also the second time that he raced to work, voluntarily, into the midst of the chaos. The last time was 1993, when the trade center was bombed. "He always did that," said his mother, Arlene Howard. "He heard about it and called up and said, `I'm on my way.' "
Mr. Howard, who was 44 and lived in Hicksville, N.Y., worked in the Port Authority's emergency services unit, an elite group he helped found. To him, Mrs. Howard recalled, the unit combined the best of police and rescue work.
In his spare time he volunteered for the local fire department and he trained other police and fire departments in safety and rescue work. And he loved coaching children, including his own two sons, Christopher, 19, and Robert, 13.
When President Bush visited ground zero just after the attacks, Mrs. Howard was asked if she would like to present him with her son's silver shield. When the president mentioned the shield in a subsequent speech, and said he could carry Mr. Howard's memory forever, Mrs. Howard said, "That made me very proud."
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Greg Bennett
September 6, 2021
In my own way, my New York State Guard 90 day activation with the 14th Brigade and HQ Military Police was in honor of PAPO George Howard, who was a leader with the PAPD and the Hicksville Fire Department. His family has a tradition of military service and are all Great Americans. His Mom, Arlene Howard was Nassau County Commander of the American Legion and a member of the Charles Wagner Post 421 in Hicksville. George will never be forgotten.
John Beckett
September 11, 2016
My introduction to the fire service was through my employer when we were being trained to be fire fighters in the power plants on Long Island, and as a volunteer in Great Neck. Chief Howard was one of the instructors at Nassau Fire Academy who helped train me in fire fighting, and also in confined space rescue in the early 1990s. I remember him always saying "always use a safety line" and I always did, and following his words has gotten me through a few tough spots.
Fifteen years after 9-11 I think of him often, particularly today, as my department this morning had a service to honor those lost. I continue in the volunteer fire service, now in Dutchess County NY, partly because of his inspiration and example.
God Bless you Georgie- we still miss you.
Ryan
September 8, 2016
Coach Howard was my first lacrosse coach. He coached me from 3rd grade until 6th grade. We as a team had so many great memories, laughs and learning experiences because of him. I remember after every game win or lose he would take the whole team and our family members out for ice cream. He had a heart of GOLD!!! He was a tough coach but fair and he loved everyone of his players as a son. Off the field he would do anything for anyone. He was an amazing Coach, Friend and Father.
Karen Penny-Rivera
September 10, 2015
Hi George...thinking about you tonite...you were such a good person..gruff, but so caring of others... I have often thought of you over the years, and I cried many tears over your death... while working the pile at ground zero, I heard two other cops talking about a brave PA cop who was killed and when they said your name I was devastated- I did not know you very well ...we were pretty recent friends but you had promised to teach me how to cut the crown molding for my livingroom, and I felt we would have been great pals.... I'm not too worried I am sure we will meet up again, altho I doubt there will be a need for crown molding then much love to your family...I know it has not been an easy path for them, but I hope they know you are not far away and that you are forever the watchful angel, making sure they are safe ....
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Cathy Boyle
July 16, 2015
I didn't't know George but I knew his ex? Mother in law Dorothy Stephens.
I did go to George's funeral,and I remember how we all we in a state of shell shock.fFor some reason George came to mind and heart
greg gober
July 31, 2014
I met George and his family on a whale watch boating trip in Bar Harbor Maine in July of 2000. While we travelling away from shore to the whale watching area I had a chance to become acquainted with George and his family and found the large man to be a warm friendly person that was extremely outgoing. He is the only link I have to 9/11 and could not believe I had met someone by chance that not only had perished in the attack but had his service badge given to the president and the story though tragic made several major media publications! I will always cherish the friendly fellow vacationer my wife and I met that summer day
January 26, 2014
Such a moving story. I am most thankful to people of his caliber. Another one, coincedently is George's son, Christoper, who through his bone marrow donation, was the life saving angel to a very special friend of mine. John from Lakeland FL.
As the the recipient of Chris's bone marrow, John and his wife Debra will finally meet this unselfish son of an unselfish father. this Wednesday in New York City. I will be ever thankful for his unselfish act of knidness which has prolonged the life on my friend "John Boy". Thank you Chris and God Bless You. How proud you have made your Mom and Dad, but then "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. You are special!
Sandra Chandonnet;, Manchester NH
CAPT. ROBERT BETZ
September 11, 2012
WELL IT HAS BEEN 11 YEARS BROTHER. I JUST CAME FROM VIEWING THE LIGHTS FROM MY SHORES. AS I WALKED DOWN THE PIER I THOUGHT ABOUT YOU AND KENNY T. ALL I COULD THINK ABOUT WAS MAN HOW COULD WE HAVE LET THIS HAPPEN. I PRAY TO GOD THAT WE HAVE LEARNED. I KNOW YOU AND THE REST OF THE CREW WILL KEEP THIS FROM HAPPENING AGAIN. I MISSED MAKING HICKSVILLE THIS SUMMER HOPE TO GET TO YOUR STATION BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR. YOU ARE ALWAYS IN OUR MINDS BROTHER.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Nina Murphy
September 10, 2012
Ah Georgie, you left us way to soon. To this day I cannot bring myself to remove Ghropemstr from my buddy list. George and I were internet buddies then began offline calls often lasting hours discussing life, relationships, family issues, parenting, everything. When I needed someone to get me away from a bad situation, George was right there - without ever meeting me in person - moved me and my young daughter to mom's where we would be safe. For 6 years every year on his birthday in March, I would set my alarm for 2:XX AM when he was born and sing happy birthday to him. I may have been broken by his passing, but touched by his incredible spirit, strength, compassion, love of life, moral conscience & unconditional love of his family and friends of which I am proud to count myself among. You are so missed and I pray for robert and chris and those you left behind. Watch over us all til we repel up to Heaven where you sitting and watching over everyone. Love you! Nina
Bob Howard
March 10, 2012
SUNDAY 11 MARCH 2012 well brother - Happy Birthday - 55 - holy "cheese and crackers" - you're getting old...missing out on the good stuff like knees hurting, back spasms, bifocals, it hurts when i do this...and so on...and so on....had lunch with Red at the WAVES 70th birthday party in DC the other day. Took pictures of your photos and the one with Pres Bush holding your shield. Oh yeah - TSA has a K-9 black lab named after you
Happy Birthday
Love Bob
October 7, 2011
To The Family,
I worked for Nassau County for 34 years and had the privilege of being trained in Safety and Rescue by George Howard. "Chief Howard" was a very knowledgeable, friendly man with a great sense of humor. Please accept my deepest sympathy. I look forward to seeing the Chief when he is brought back to life when Our Lord Jesus Christ resurrects dead loved ones.
Sincerely,
Terrone Sterling
Frank Giaramita
September 21, 2011
As a Sergeant, when I held roll call and saw George there, I was a happy man. I knew that if something crazy happened on that tour, George would be there and would be my best resource to get us through anything!
He was a great man and is sorely missed.
Frank Giaramita (Retired PAPD)
Bill Hammer
September 21, 2011
George was one of a kind. He always put his own safety in the back of his mind and took care of business. 9/11 was his day off. What else needs to be said. God Bless you George and Rest In Peace!
Joe C
September 21, 2011
George trained our SERT team in Nassau in 93. He was a nice guy and knowledgeable instructor. My thoughts are with his family. They have great memories of him.
Jim
September 21, 2011
George was one of my first lacrosse coaches in Hicksville. He was one of the toughest coaches ive ever played for but he taught me (us) a lot, not just for the sport, but in life. I think of George often and miss him dearly. I consider him my hero everyday. He was one of the best.....
Emergency Service
September 11, 2011
George taught many of us rescue techniques. Little did we know that we would be using that knowledge to try to rescue him and almost 3,000 others. Although we we not able to help him that day, we have used what he taught us to help countless others.
Peggy Price-Quigley
September 11, 2011
Sept. 11, 2011
My mother used to take care of Georgie and Geri Ann when they were very young. I always had a soft spot in my heart for Georgie, he had such a great smile. Georgie was one of the really good guys. Mrs. Howard you did a fine job raising all your children.
When I think of Georgie, I always smile.
Peggy (Price) Quigley
Robert Lincoln
February 22, 2011
A very special person. A talented colleague and always a good friend
bobby oconnell
February 22, 2011
He taught me ropes and repelling at nassau county firemans trainning center .He had a great sense of humor
JORDAN HUTCHINSON
December 10, 2010
MR. HOWARD
I HAVE READ MANY GREAT THINGS ABOUT YOU. I ADMIRE YOUR COURAGE AND BRAVERY SO MUCH ON 9/11. IT INSPIRIES ME EVERYDAY AND I PROMISE YOU I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU AND ALL THE REST OF THE RESCUE WORKERS WHO GAVE THERE LIFE SAVING OTHERS ON SEPT 11TH. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. I PRAY FOR THEM EVERYDAY. ILL NEVER FORGET
ROBERT BETZ 1st LT.
March 27, 2009
GEORGE,
I SEE YOU EVRYTIME I THINK OF YOU. IT IS ONE OF THOSE EXPERIANCES THAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU MEET A GREAT PERSON. . I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE GREAT TIME WE HAD AT THE FIRE HOUSE AFTER THE PARADE AND DRILLS. IF IT WAS NOT FOR MY COUSIN JEFF SCEZLI I WOULD HAVE NEVER OF MET YOU. I AM HAPPY FOR THE TIME WE HAD AND THE TIME WE WILL HAVE AGAIN. I KNOW ONE THING EVERY FIREFIGHTER AND POLICE OFFICER HAS A GUARDIAN ANGEL LOOKING AFTER THEM. I HAVE COME TO BELIEVE IT WAS YOU WHO PICKED ME UP AND PUT ME THROUGH THAT BROKEN WINDOW TO SAVE THAT WOMEN IN THAT HOUSE FIRE. I WILL ALWAYS TRY TO WALK IN THE FOOT STEPS OF A HERO BECAUSE OF YOUR SACRAFICE. UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN SEMPER FI BROTHER
Doug Abraham
March 11, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Roberta Eaton
September 11, 2008
To the Howard Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours as we survive another anniversary of America's saddest day and your deepest sorrow. God bless each of you and may you find strength knowing others are thinking of you and praying for you.
Kevin Farrell
September 3, 2008
As the 7th Anniversary approaches I can't help but think about George, my brother - Terry and all the 1st Responders who perished that day and know that they would do again in a heartbeat without hesitation. God Bless them all.
Doug Abraham
March 11, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
chris forgione
October 3, 2007
Chief Howard and i met in the late 1990s. I was taking a class out at fire scool for work. Confined space rescue. He was truely a great teacher and a builder of confidence. the class was for 2 weeks. It was hard work but George made it fun. He was stern, but a great instructor,What George did on 9/11 is what firemen do. He was truely a hero that day. Please let it comfort his faimly to know his brother firemen miss him and will never forget what he did for his fellow man. God bless your faimly and your boys Chris Forgione Westbury F.D
Doug Abraham
March 11, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
P Tabbernor
November 11, 2006
In memory....
Kristine
November 6, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Geri-Anne Satterfield
October 10, 2006
5 years have passed and still I miss you more and more each day. There is no sense to this, there are no reasons. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU TREMENDOUSLY. Love Sis
The Nicollets
September 12, 2004
It is hard to imagine it has been three years since we last saw you, but time will never stop the great memories we have of you. We will always remember,love,and miss you. God Bless you George and Thank You for your sacrafice.
Theresa Pellicano
September 11, 2004
I work at an animal hospital in Hicksville,New York where George was a client. He didn't just rescue people, he was a hero for animals too. He would tell the front office staff stories of him rescuing dogs that were strays at Kennedy airport and finding them good homes. We see his son Chris as Chris takes care of his dads' dog Brutus. My heart is with Howard family.
David Lippman
May 19, 2004
Mike Sheridan (from the union and the WTC) joins me in sending our condolences to the Howard family.
I wear a Port Authority Police t-shirt and a PA police badge on my jacket in George's honor.
I remember, too.
LINDA SOVAK
September 11, 2003
George became my best friend when we met online. I soo much miss our calls we made to each other sharing our lives for over three years. A part of me also died that day as one day has not gone by that I do not think of you.I stayed behind at the cemetery till the last shovel full of dirt was placed on your grave and the warmth from the sun let me know you knew I was there. I just wish God had intended for us to meet and say hello instead of me saying goodbye to you at your calling hours and funeral.The void in my heart will always be there. Christopher and " the little guy" Robert will be fine gentlemen seeing that they had such a great dad. Rest in peace my dear friend and one day we will "take that walk in the park".
Julie K
September 11, 2003
God bless American and God bless George Howard. I did not know George but am proud to carry a dog tag which is inscribed "George Howard NY/NJ Port Fallen in the Line of Duty September 11, 2001." Your son, father and friend is a true American hero.
Lt. Kevin Hassett
December 21, 2002
Not a day goes by that I don't think about you my friend. I/we miss you everyday and you would be proud (and in some cases amazed) of what your PAPD ESU "students" have done for themselves and the Unit. I miss you buddy. I did the best I could and will never forget - ever. Till we meet again in a better place. Rest in peace my brother in blue. "The Pitbull"
Anna Krolikowski
September 24, 2002
George, it was an honor to have met you when you attended your nephew Andrew's First Holy Communion here in Maryland. May God bless you and your wonderful family.
stephen Mcnamara
September 11, 2002
GOD BLESS WE WILL NEVER FORGET
Ronnie Quigley
September 11, 2002
Dear Mrs Howard and Family,
Today is the first day that I found out about George. I don't know if you remember me but I went to St Ignatius with George, My last name was McCarthy at the time. I can't beleive it took a year for me to find out. I received an e-mail over the weekend from a fellow student at St. Ignatius and he told me. Could be that I live in Florida now and don't see much of the New York News.
May God Bless you and your family
Forever.
Ronnie Quigley (nee McCarthy
Judi Gladish
September 11, 2002
I have never met you but I know that your sons and mother must be so proud that you chose to give of yourself to help others. The people of this beautiful country could never even begin to express our gratitude. You are now among Gods angels and will forever be in our prayers. You can rest in peace knowing that what you did was a heroic deed and will never be forgotten.
Christina Markey
September 9, 2002
To The Howard Family,
My heart goes out to the Howard family. I have known the Howard family for a long time, I am Robert and Chris's former babysitter. My father met George through the HFD. He taught my father the ins and outs of fire safety and Ems. May George rest in peace.
Christina Markey
Gerry Gagliano Ex-Capt Hicksville FD
September 9, 2002
It was an honor to work with you at the HFD. Your advice both as an instructor, and personal will always be remembered.
Missy and Jimmy Quinn
September 8, 2002
George was our son, Sean's first lacrosse coach for Hicksville PAL. George did this for the love of the game even though his sons did not play at the time. He gave his all to the boys and the boys loved him for it. This team was known as "The Team from Hell". The boys are now in college most of them playing lacrosse. George got the biggest kick seeing us at church and hearing about his old team player's lacrosse accomplishments. Many of the team did well due to the fine beginning base instructions given by George. He was always someone for these boys to look up to and remains so to this day. Thanks George.
Joe Russo
September 7, 2002
George,
We have thought about you and your family this whole year. It was an honor to serve with you in the Hicksville Fire Dept. all those years.
Mike La Rosa
September 7, 2002
As tough as you were on the outside, you still were one of the most carring person i met. It was an honor to work with you in the H.F.D. God Bless
Arlene R
September 6, 2002
I haved worked at JFK Airport for many years and have gotten to know so many of the brave PA officers as they protected us (the employee's at JFK) and the passengers and others who passed through each and every day. There are no words to express the gratitude my family and myself have for these men and women whose sacrafices they make every day go on and on. The Port Authority Police "37" will live on in my heart and the hearts of all of the PA and the world forever more. To the Howard Family and friends, God Bless you all and know that George is now protecting all the others who perished with him and will guide them for eternity. This upcoming first anniversary in Heaven for George and all the others will be celebrated throughout the World and they will NEVER EVER BE FORGOTTEN.
Andrew Anderson
August 21, 2002
We all miss you at JFKIA George. But what you started will go on, and will grow. We'll all meet some future day brother. PAPD JFK
Dan Dames
May 12, 2002
Officer Howard's family,God Bless,,I did not know Officer Howard,but I am also a police officer and ex-military andI will always feel grief and anger when I think of that day,,God Bless!!!
Angie Campbell
May 1, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Hang in there...
pat howard
April 30, 2002
thank you all for remembering george with your tributes, we greatly appreciate it...
Ira Goodstadt
April 20, 2002
I am honored to have been trained at FSA by Chief Howard. Some of the lessons he taught me i have used not only to help myself but others.
God rest his soul.
Meg Heekin
April 15, 2002
Dear George,
Friends are rare and dear. We know many people but few as true as you were to us. Thank you for all your help. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers. Heaven has been greatly enriched, earth sadly diminished. We will miss you.
Frank and Meg Heekin.
Sandy Carson
March 29, 2002
Groiwing up on Indiana St seeing George rushing off to help someone was almost a daily sight although we morn his loss it is no surprise he died helping others. God bless yoiu all
Maria Speciale
March 21, 2002
Dear George:
I know you're watching over your family now. Geri, your mom and all of your family are amazing. Their faith and love for you shine through each and every day-even through the pain. Thank you for choosing the vocation of hero-not too many can be called that. The greatest of these...is love. Thank you special hero; you've left us an amazing example of pure love.
A friend
Maureen Stratigos
March 20, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends who loved George. May they find peace in their memories of him and know the world morns their loss too.
Mary Beth Howard
March 12, 2002
I wanted to let you know that we are still praying for you and all the families of the victims. I will try in my small way not to let anyone forget how important all the victims were. George came to my notice because of my husband's last name. I visited Ground Zero on Ash Wednesday. I prayed there. I brought back with me the need to let no one forget what happened there or that the families still need our prayers.
February 4, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS AND ST.GEORGE GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN
Dan Dutton
February 4, 2002
George, you will not be forgotten. I will always rember the class you helped give us at the FSA. You helped turn a very serious subject into a truly fun learning experience.
Remember, "wopes awe my fend."
jerry giardina
January 14, 2002
To the howard Family,
God Bless you all.
george you will always be
remembered
Teresa Jahn
December 28, 2001
We are very sorry for your loss of George. We thank him from our hearts for dedicating his life to helping protect, rescue and care for others as a police officer. Such dedication comes with a warm and caring heart. May his courage, life and love live on in those who love him and in those he has helped through the years. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Connie delRio
October 21, 2001
The names were all on tiny strips of paper laid out on the altar steps at Berean Baptist Church,the dear lost ones.Carefully I wrapped it around my finger and still today I continue to pray for your family.Thank you George!...<><...
Ken Wirth
October 14, 2001
George you will always be remembered by us all here. Close to our hearts, a hero to us all.
Thank You
johnson hart
October 4, 2001
May the Angels lead you into Paradise. God Bless us all.
Sherrie McDaniel
October 1, 2001
I am honored to have met George when he came to visit his sister, Geri and her family up here in Maine. George is a true hero and he will always be remembered for serving his country. God Bless.
Jeff Sausman
September 30, 2001
You understood before all of this, the importance of serving our communities and our country. I am sorry that it took such a dark day to show the rest of us what you carried in your heart every day.
It will never be forgotten.
Barbara Bolin
September 24, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
GEORGE HOWARD,A TRUE HERO,MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
Shanon Taylor
September 19, 2001
As the wife of a police officer, my thoughts and prayers go out to this man who sacrificed his life for the safety of others. There is no greater love.
God bless.
McKenna Cole
September 19, 2001
No greater love exists than the one that leads a man to lay down his life for others. America is a better place because of your unselfish dedication to fellow citizens. You embody the spirit of America and love. May you rest in peace. Americans will never forget your sacrifice.
Veronica Ayres
September 19, 2001
My heart goes out to the family and frinds. May you know his passing was not in vain, but acting unselfishly, to save others. For this reason he will always be remembered as a Hero to this great country we live in. God Bless!!!
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