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John Napolitano
John Napolitano
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John Napolitano Obituary
John P. Napolitano won enough awards, medals and citations from the New York Fire Department and the Lakeland Fire District in Ronkonkoma, N.Y., where he lived, to fill a box.
And a box is where he kept them.
"He didn't have to wear medals on his chest," said his father, John. "I really admired him, not for what he did for a living, but for how he lived his life."
Lieutenant Napolitano — he was promoted posthumously — was a fireman's fireman. He showed up as an experienced rookie in 1991, having started as a junior volunteer with the Lakeland district when he was 17. He eventually became chief and commissioner there.
Robert Galione worked with Lieutenant Napolitano at Rescue 2 in Brooklyn, following him into some tough fires. "He'd go into a fire that was roaring so loud we couldn't hear anything," Firefighter Galione said. "I was right behind him humping the hose, so I know he never took a step back."
Firefighting was his life's work, but not his life. "What did he do outside the firehouse?" said his father. "That's the easiest question to answer. Being with his wife and kids. Period. End of story."
To please his two little girls, Elizabeth and Emma Rose, Lieutenant Napolitano, 33, would do almost anything. The image that sticks in the mind of his wife, Anne, is of him trying to fly a kite on a windless day to make the girls smile.
They did.
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John Napolitano
November 23, 2023
My Son I love and miss you..it is Thanksgiving, and I will forever be thankful for having you as a Son..
Before you became America's Hero you were to your Mother and I our Son..
Though you are not here you are with me..you will always be with me..
I love you my Son..I Will Never Forget..
Pat Lehecka
September 12, 2023
I think of you often. Your beautiful smile is shining down on your family. You are their angel. You are so missed but will never be forgotten.
John Napolitano
September 11, 2023
My Son I love you.. Today Mark's the 22nd year of that Day in September when Angel's and Hero Saints were made..
You made the Supreme Sacrifice and gave your life while Courageously Saving Others..
Time is a relentless enemy but it hasn't diminished your light that shines in the hearts of your Mother, Sisters, Wife, Daughters, all who knew and loved you..and in mine..
Every day I see you, I hear you..I always will..
I miss my Son and Love you..
I Will Never Forget..
John Napolitano
July 4, 2023
My Son I love and miss you..Today is your Birthday..a day that is also celebrated as a Day of Heroes..You made the Supreme Sacrifice on September 11 2001 while Saving Lives at the World Trade Center, a Day of Tragedy and also a Day of Heroes.. but between those Dates you lived the Life of a Hero and Role Model to so many who knew, loved and admired you.
Happy Birthday in Heaven my Son..you are missed beyond words and as America celebrates today as a Day of Heroes and you as a Hero to your Mother and I you are and always will be The Good Son.
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John Napolitano
December 25, 2022
My Son I love and miss you..it's Christmas, another Christmas without you yet your with me..Time goes on yet stands still..I think about you every day since that day that you gave your life while Saving Others..Your Heroism and Courage may have been forgotten by some, but I know there are those who will never forget and celebrate your life as I do..Its Christmas and you will always be my most cherished gift..
I love you my Son..I Will Never Forget..
John Napolitano
November 24, 2022
My Son I love and miss you..it's Thanksgiving, another Thanksgiving since you gave your life while saving others..your not here yet always with me..I will celebrate this day just as I celebrate all my days in thanks that you are my Son..not was..but still..for I am never without you..Happy Thanksgiving in Heaven my Son..
I will never forget..
Kindred Family
November 9, 2022
Remembering you and your family for your precious loss of your son, John and sending our deepest condolences. Some things in our lives are very painful and difficult. During these times we need God and others to lean on for support. John touched the lives of others and will always be remembered with deep love and respect.
John Napolitano
September 12, 2022
My Son I love you..it is the 21st Anniversary of 9/11..when you saved lives but lost yours, making the Supreme Sacrifice..21 years without you but yet I see you every day..You are missed beyond words..Time has in some ways stood still..for your Mother and I it is still 9/11/2001..Your Little Girls are Beautiful and successful young Ladies, you would be so very proud..So much has been missed by you, so much still to be missed..I know your in Heaven Son, I have to believe that..I have to believe that I will see you again but till than I will share your Story and tell those who are willing to hear that yes you are a Hero not only because of your Courage and Sacrifice that Day in September but all the Days of how you Lived..I love you Son and Will Not Forget..
Pat Lehecka
September 11, 2022
May your memory never fade. RIP Johnny. You are forever remembered. Your dad will Never let anyone forget who you were.
John Napolitano
July 4, 2022
My Son I love and miss you..Today is your Birthday, you are 33 years old, it is 2001.. In two months I will never see you again..You and the Heroes who were with you will make the Supreme Sacrifice as you courageously save Lives at the World Trade Center.. The years go by but for me everyday is September,2001 and you are forever 33 years old.. I see every day the Horror of the devastation while searching for you wanting to find you but afraid of what I will see..but I also see a sleeping baby, a Young Child and the Great Man that you were..
Today is your Birthday.. You are 33 years old..I love and miss you..Happy Birthday in Heaven..
I Will Never Forget
John Napolitano
December 25, 2021
My Son it is Christmas 2021 and I love and miss you, yet you are still with me and have been so ever since you gave your Life while Saving Others that Terrible Day in September 2001..
Some years ago it was Christmas Eve and as I was thinking about you as I always do I put my thoughts to Pen and Paper and what came out was a Prayer.. and on this Day my Son I will share that Prayer with you and in your Name..
My Christmas Prayer..
" Dear God today is Christmas Eve, and I am a little angry at you, your probably saying to yourself.. "so what else is new".. you took a couple of Firemen today, I don't know yet about any Police Officers, or any of our Troops..don't know why you would need any of them on this day.. come to think of it I don't know why you just don't leave them alone, let them grow old and take them peacefully, but your Spiritual Leaders tell me that you have a Divine Plan.. okay I admit that I don't understand this, and that I am not a perfect person that I may have from time to time bent some of your rules.. but I always said that I was sorry and try my best to not bend them again.. and even though I get mad at you.. I never disliked you.. I just don't understand, anyway I will get to the Point.. tomorrow is Christmas, it is your Son's Birthday, my Son was born on the 4th of July, but you already know that.. more on that later.. here's the thing, do you think that on your Son's Birthday, you could maybe give us a break, could you just once alter your Divine Plan, could you not ask your Guardian Angels to look away for a second, let them do their job.. there have been so many times that too many of us have seen what happens when these Angels look away, History has too many of these Tragedies, there was Lincoln, and King, and the Kennedy's, 9/11, Newton Connecticut, the List goes on.. and speaking of 9/11, why so many?.. why so many First Responders, Police Officers and Firefighters ?..when I asked you to please let me bring a Loved one home, let me find someone, wipe the dust from their face.. you give me a young lady, covered in grey ash, a steel beam across her head.. didn't my friend Lenny and I make a Cross and stand it up by her.. didn't I Pray to you even though I was mad at you.. I wish that there was someone better than me asking you for this favor but here goes.. Please tell your Guardian Angels that are watching over our Troops on Christmas Day, to be extra watchful.. and Please tell your Guardian Angels that are watching over our EMS and Paramedics on Christmas Day to be extra watchful, and the same for our Police Officers and Firefighters, the Angel watching over the Police Officer who doesn't see the gun pointed at him or hear the pop as the bullet races towards him can you have that Angel blow that bullet away, and the Firefighter carrying a limp Child as that Firefighter races through a hellish inferno looking for an escape, can you have that Angel blow a path through the smoke and maybe give that Firefighter a little push.. oh and one other thing, that limp Child will be alright of course.. So that's it..that's all I have to say except for one more thing.. getting back to the Divine Plan thing, if for some reason you should ask one of your Guardian Angels that is assigned to Firefighters, to look away for a second but he does not and disobeys you, and this Angel is a nice young Man, soft spoken, a nice looking Boy, with a warm and friendly smile and he has a number 2 on his helmet.. go easy on him, I spoke about him earlier, this Guardian Angel, Lt John P Napolitano, FDNY, Rescue 2..He is my Son"..
Well that's it my Son I hope he heard me.. I will Never stop talking to you, I love you and ..I Will Never Forget..
John Napolitano
November 26, 2021
My Son I love and miss you.. It is Thanksgiving, a day of Thanks for those who are and were in our Lives.. Those that we love.. another Thanksgiving without you, and yet not, because my Son you are with me every single day, and the Holidays may add to our heartbreak Time does not heal.. You dedicated your Life to help others and gave your life to Save Others, and to those who love those that you Saved I know that they spend this Thanksgiving Day Thankful for you and the Heroes who were with you that Terrible Day in September.. I and those who love you will spend this Thanksgiving giving Thanks for the Days that we had you.. Happy Thanksgiving in heaven my Son.. I love and miss you and.. I Will Never Forget..
.. There Once Was a Boy Who Dreamed About Making a Difference..<br />.. And Became a Man Who Did..
John Napolitano
July 4, 2021
My Beloved Son.. I love and miss you.. Today is your Birthday and although it has been 20 years since that day in September when you made the Supreme Sacrifice while saving Lives at the World Trade Center I still hear you and feel you.. time is a relentless Enemy in some ways but it will never take you away from me.. You were a Boy with a Dream who became a Great man who lived that Dream... We miss you so much.. today is tough on your Mom, your Birthday, the day she brought you into this World, and made me the most happiest of Dads.. and with the memory of you I will always be the most happiest of Dads..
Happy Birthday in Heaven My Son.. I Will Never Forget..
John Napolitano
December 25, 2020
Merry Christmas in Heaven my Son I love you and I miss you..although not here you are with me this day and all the days since you gave your life while courageously saving others on September 11,2001..almost 20 years have passed since that day and for some time has erased from their mind that terrible day when hate attacked and was met with Courage and Compassion by you and the Heroes who were with you..First Responders who became our Nations First Patriots in a War declared on us by Islamic Terrorists..and although the World saw the horror of that day..it also saw your Courage..and there will always be those who will never forget..Another Christmas has passed and we celebrate the Spirit of the Day with Loved Ones..All our Loved Ones and Our Family is with you my Son on this day and all the days yet to come and on that day when we can hold you once more..Merry Christmas in Heaven my Son ..I love you..
Dad
John Napolitano
July 4, 2020
My Son I love and Miss you..today is your Birthday and our Nations..The Heroism of those on the 4th of July and yours on 9/11 are dates that should always be remembered..
September 11, 2001..Many in this Country have Forgotten..Lenny said that it would happen, I disagreed I said.." Never..not this.." I was wrong..but just as I remember that day that I stood in the horror of the Trade Center with Lenny as we Searched for John and also Lenny's Brother, Lt John Crisci and he predicted the Future I also remember all those People who waited outside the perimeter of the Trade Center waving American Flags offering us Hope and Support.. a Shoulder to lean on, and like me ..They Never Left..
Happy Birthday Son..
" RESCUE 2 .. JOHN NAPOLITANO..I'M HERE AND I LOVE YOU..
DAD
John Napolitano
April 12, 2020
My Son I love and miss you..it is Easter a most Holy Day..some day that it is a Holiday but it is so much more..it is so much more if People take the time to learn about it..A Man gave his life to save Others..you my Son did that on 9/11 and I have to believe that Man welcomed you into Heaven..
We miss you so much my Son and think about you every day..It is another Easter without you but yet you are still with me..you will always be with me..
Happy Easter in Heaven my Son..I Will Never Forget..
Dad
Alexander
January 28, 2020
In lasting memory of a firefighter who gave his life to rescue other people on 9/11. Godspeed....
John Napolitano
January 1, 2020
My Son I love you..it is New Years Day..People are celebrating the arrival of a New Year..it is 2020 but for me it is still 2001..September 11..the day you gave your life while Saving others..over 18 years have passed..but not for me..there are some things in life where time stands still..I cant touch you but I feel you and think about you every day..and as People everywhere celebrate this 2020 New Year..I celebrate the Old Years..the years that you were here and made all my days Happy..Happy New Year in Heaven my Son..I Will Never Forget..
Michael Dana
December 28, 2019
Around the holidays.............around the many days of the years...........you always come to mind. When I get the chance I tell people about you. Many of us can never understand why such great people are taken so early in life. The only thing we can do is to keep your memory alive. Ill always remember ....never forget........to mention you and all the all first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice for what we all enjoy in our daily lives.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2019
My Son I love and miss you..another Christmas with you in Heaven but yet still here because you are always with me..time will never diminish your light that shines bright in our hearts..History will celebrate your Courage.but those of us who knew and loved also celebrate the Honorable way that you lived your kind Nature your sense of Humor your being a True Role Model to so many..but today is Christmas and I see the Great Man that you grew to be but I also see the Boy scurrying with his Sisters under the Christmas Tree..I hear the Childhood laughter and knowing that for me being a Dad was and is the greatest of Gifts.. Merry Christmas in Heaven Son..You will always be with me..
Dad
John Napolitano
November 28, 2019
My Son I love and miss you..it is Thanksgiving another one without you..People that you saved that Day in September when you were taken from us spend this day with their Loved Ones thanks to you and the Heroes who were with you..and even though you are not here I am spending my Thanksgiving with you because my Son you are always with me..I love you..Happy Thanksgiving in Heaven..
Dad
John Napolitano
September 12, 2019
My Son I Love You..yesterday a Nation Mourned,,We have never stopped..I think about you every day..9/11 has not taken you from me..I celebrate not how you left us but your Courage and how you lived..a good and decent Man..They say NEVER FORGET..how could I?..I love you Son ..till we meet again..
Dad
john Napolitano
July 4, 2019
My Son..I love and miss you so very much..Today as we celebrate our Nations Birthday your Family celebrates your Birthday
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN "THE GOOD SON"..Some in this Country will take a knee in disrespect on this Nations Birthday my Son, but so many more will take a knee in Prayer and Thanks for those who recognize all the Good that this Country offers, and it's eagerness to always strive to be better..for it's Heroes who Serve and Protect and for those Heroes who like you my Son who have made the Supreme Sacrifice, so that others can safely enjoy the God given Freedoms that we hold dear..and as this Nation celebrates it's Birthday my Son, your Mother and I will celebrate your Birthday because before you became America's Hero..you were our Son..and our Hero.."
The Kindred Family
January 20, 2019
We send our continued heartfelt condolences to your family. Never will these words remove the deep pain of loss but may they show that others still do care after all of these years. May God always give the needed comfort and help with each new day. John touched the lives of many others and will always be remembered fondly.
John Napolitano
January 1, 2019
New Years Day 2019...My Son I love and Miss you..In 2001 you gave your life while Saving others and as they celebrate another New Years Day I celebrate this New Years Day just as I celebrated that first New Years Day without you with a heart full of love for you that although broken still holdsall that love for you since the Day you were born.. I hear you Son I hear your Happy News Years to me from years past I will always hear it Son and as I celebrate this New Year here and you in Heaven we are not apart you are with me Son..You will always be with me..
John Napolitano
December 25, 2018
My Son I love and miss you.. It is Christmas, another Christmas without you, but then again it isn't because I think about you every single Day..Lives that you saved that Day in September when Evil attacked and Heroes like yourself faced that Evil with Courage and Compassion, those Lives have enjoyed Christmas's with their Loved Ones all these years because of your Sacrifice and the Sacrifice of those Heroes who like you made the Supreme Sacrifice in Saving Others..Saving People that you never met..People that you didn't know..I hope those Families never forget and always appreciate the Greatest of Gifts that you gave to them..as for me.. I will always appreciate the Greatest Gift ever given to me..and that is you Son..
So as in every Christmas Past, and in this Christmas Present, and whatever Christmas's Future that there may be for me, of all the Gifts that I may receive, the Greatest Gift that I will always have is you my Son..all my Children and all my Grandchildren.. I Will Never Forget..
Merry Christmas in Heaven Son..
I Love You..
Dad
John Napolitano
September 12, 2018
September 11, 2018...it has been 17 years my Son and for each day of those years I think about you, I see you and I hear you..yesterday a Nation mourned for you and so many others, and they celebrate your Courage and call you a Hero and for 17 years I have always said that you were not a Hero just for how you died, but a Hero for how you lived..I love and miss you..your Mother , your Sisters, your Wife and your "Little Girls"..they are big now Son and so beautiful and on the way to success and doing great things..you would be so Proud.
Another 9/11 Anniversary, but not the same..there were speeches, and the reading of the Names, of talking about all who were lost that Day in September and of you, and the Heroes who were with you, but still not all the same, because my Son, I miss you more and more as time goes by.. Yesterday a Nation mourned, and today a Nation will go about the business that Nations do..and we your Family will go about each day doing what Families do, but we will never stop missing you, we will not mourn you for one day a year..We will Love, and Miss and Mourn you each and every Day.. I Love You, Son.
Dad
Lydia Burns
September 12, 2018
I thought about you yesterday as I quietly celebrated my deceased son's birthday. You are my 2nd cousin. I wish I could have known you. You sacrifice will be remembered in the hearts of many. Hugs to your family.
Wendy Lamberti
September 11, 2018
John, your Dad wrote a beautiful letter years ago about your life and sacrifice that I gave to my nephews as they joined the service to remind them why they were doing what they were doing and they shared it with those they served with. I've also shared your story with many people over the years. You'll never be forgotten. Prayers for you and your family always.
September 11, 2018
Dear Anne, Elizabeth and Emma, I still remember your Dad dropping you off and picking you up at Computer Associates Day care and giving you hugs and kisses. I remember him taking off your jackets and putting them in your cubbies. I met your Dad a few times and he was such a nice person and loving father. I also remember him coming into the daycare with the fire truck and gave all the children fire hats. My daughter Emily was so excited that day. Emily was in the same classroom. May God Bless you and watch over you the rest of your lives. Your Dad was a true Hero! God Bless Anne and your beautiful daughters. Love, Sue Robinson
Denise Marano
September 11, 2018
Never forget the sacrifice you made on that day.
John Napolitano
April 1, 2018
My Son it is another Easter that you are not here..Time is a relentless Enemy..your Little Girls are big now, they are young Ladies and so beautiful..you would be so Proud..Easter a most Holy Day a Day when Jesus ascended into Heaven after giving His Life to save Others...you my Son gave your Life to save Others as did many other Heroes that Day in September..as did so many Heroes before you and so many Heroes after you..I would like to think that you all have ascended into Heaven and sit at a Table this Day together with Jesus.. I struggle to believe this after seeing the things that I saw in my search for you and others that September.. but seeing the pages of your life a good boy who grew up to be a good and decent Man, Husband and Father, I have to believe that there is a Heavenly Table and that you are there.. So my Son I will celebrate this Easter with those that we love and among the faces I will see yours and the horror that I see each and every day will never stop me from seeing your beautiful smiling face..Happy Easter in Heaven Son, and to all the Beloved Son's and Daughters who are with you, and to their Families a Happy and Blessed Easter.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2017
My Son I love and miss you..it is the 16th Christmas without you..16 years since you gave your life while courageously saving others..you are missed but not forgotten my Son..every one of us your Family and Friends who love you and those who never met you in life but have grown to love you will never forget you ..the heroic way that you lived and your profound courage one day in September..I see the good and decent Man that you my Son will always be and I see the Child on Christmas morning opening his gifts that were under the Christmas Tree..and I will see this every Christmas that is yet to come..Merry Christmas in Heaven my Son..I love you.
Dad
John Napolitano
November 30, 2017
My Son I love you and miss you this Thanksgiving..another one without you..it has been sixteen years and I miss you more and more..these were my thought some years ago and nothing has changed, they are my thoughts today and will be my thoughts for whatever tomorrow's that I may have..
John Napolitano
November 24, 2010
Thanksgiving.. so important during these difficult and dangerouse times.. a time to give Thanks for not so much what we have in our Lives, but for who we have in our Lives.. and I do not only mean those that we know and Love, but those that we do not know, some that we see in passing but don't give it a second thought..that is until we need them..I am talking about our First Responders, EMT's, Paramedics, our Firefighters and Police Officers..Men and women who on a moments notice will put themselves between you and danger..who will risk their Lives..in order to save yours...so that you and your Family can be together for all of those Thanksgivings yet to come.. We give Thanks to them.
And as we sit with our Families in the comfort of Dining Room Chairs, enjoying a Feast of Turkey, Ham and all the trimmings, somewhere far away from home, away from their Families, sits perhaps, in a carved out hole in the Sand, someone's Son or Daughter, sitting in sweltering heat, a rifle at the ready, necessary to fight off those who would harm us at home, fighting to prevent another cowardly attack, like the one on 9/11/2001.. sitting tired, but alert..being missed by their Family this Thanksgiving Day..wondering when..wondering if..their Loved one will come Home...We give Thanks to them.
On this Thanksgiving Day, thousands of People in New York will be able to Celebrate another Thanksgiving with their Families, because of the Courage and Sacrifice of our Firefighters and Police Officers who gave their Lives in their Valiant and Extraordinary efforts to save others.. over 400 First Responders were Killed in Action at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, among them my Lifelong Friend and younger 'Brother' Lt John Crisci, FDNY, Haz-Mat 1, my Son's Friends and schoolmates from our neighborhood, Police Officer Glen Pettit, NYPD, Firefighter Peter Brennan, FDNY, Rescue 4, Firefighter William Mahoney, FDNY Rescue 4.. and my Son, LT John P Napolitano FDNY Rescue 2..
When those who escaped the Towers that Day in September..reassured in their descent down those Stairs, by the Conviction of Courage by those going up..when they give Thanks for those that they can still enjoy in their Lives, give Thanks also to all of those who never waivered, who continued in their climb up..and who never came Home..
To all of these Hero's..We give Thanks..
As I think about those that I Love and Lost on that Day in September, as I think about my Son.. and imagine Him as he geared up for Battle..I see Him going into the North Tower..I see the concern on His Face..and I wonder that when the end came did he see all of us..His Wife and Daughters, His Sisters..His Mom and Dad..did he have time to say to us, that he Loved us..time to say goodbye.
When I see my Son I see the young Girl that my Friend Lenny and I found under a Steel beam, the beam across her Face..covered in Ash.. I think about Her Family this Thanksgiving Day..I think about their Pain..and yet I know that they will find what I find on this Day, what to be Thankful for, and it is not only the beauty and warmth that we have with those that are still here and among us that we Love and who Love us Back.. but it is also the Thanks for those that we Love and Loved us back..who are no longer here..
For 33 years I had the most Wonderful Son, he has given to me a Beautiful and Wonderful Daughter in Law.. my Lifes Blood, my Beautiful Grandaughters, growing up into Beautiful young Ladies.. he has made for me my Life a Preciouse and Wonderful adventure, and although losing Him and not having Him here is very hard and sometimes the anguish is unbearable, it would have been by far more unbearable..to not have had Him at all..that I could not bear..
So to my Family and Friends..and to my Son.. I give Thanks..
John Napolitano
September 11, 2017
My Son I love and miss you..it has been 16 years since that Day in September that you gave your life in your valiant and courageous effort to save as many People as possible in the mortally wounded North Tower of the World Trade Center..Time has not diminished the love and memories that we all have for you, your Family and Friends..your Friends share the good times that they had with you but I can see the tears behind the smiles. You have a new and Beautiful Niece Gianna she is now 18 months she is named in your Honor she looks like Emma when Emma was her age..She is pretty spunky and keeps us on out toes..you would have gotten a kick out of her..She will know her Hero Uncle John..we will see to that..we will tell her about your Courage but we will tell her about the Honorable and Respectable way that you lived the loyal and loving Friend..Husband..Father and Brother..and the Good Son..She will know you and love you as we do..Time will never diminish our memory and our love for you and as each year comes and marks another year that you were taken from us it also adds to all the days that you are with me..I love you my Son and I Will Never Forget..
Dad
Mike Dana
September 11, 2017
You are thought of many times a year and I make sure to share my memories of our brief time together back on Long Island. My thoughts and prayers are always with you and your family as they continue to forge forward in life.
Mike Dana
DPD #6469
.."The Good Son"..
John Napolitano
July 4, 2017
My Son I love and Miss you.. today is your Birthday and as America Celebrates the birth of a Great Nation and the Heroes who made it so, I will also Celebrate you and the Heroes who perished with you as you all saved Lives on September 11, 2001.. how symbolic that you were born on the Day of Heroes..
Our Beloved Son...Happy Birthday in Heaven.. Before he became America's Hero, He was our Son..He will always be our Son, and as he grew to be the Great and Heroic Man that he was, a Devoted and Loving Husband and Father, to his Wife Anne and his Daughters Elizabeth Anne and Emma Rose, He will always be that also, and to his Sisters Dawn Ann and Stacy Marie He will always be the Big Brother, and to His Family and Friends those who knew and loved Him, He will always be in their hearts, and all who came to know and love Him and bonded with a Brother Firefighter who never had the chance to call Him Brother in Life, but Honor Him each and every day will do so as some who may forget yesterdays Heroes, they will never forget.. I see the Good and Decent Man, I see everything that others may see, but I see also the Boy and feel not only the firm handshake of a Man, but also the grip of an infant on my finger, and a Mother..a Mother sees her Baby..
John Napolitano
January 1, 2017
My Son it is New Years Day, and although many years have passed since you gave your life saving others I still hear you loud and clear as if you were beside me saying.."Happy New Years Dad".. and I feel your firm handshake..and it will be this way for whatever New Years are to come.Yes we all miss you and love you my Son but know that we still feel your love and you still make for us a Holiday special and when I close my eyes and see you..I smile. Happy New Year in Heaven my Son..I love you..I will Never Forget..
Dad
John Napolitano
November 24, 2016
My Son I love and miss you..today is Thanksgiving and although you are not here you are with me..you will always be with me..and I will always be Thankful for you my Son..you have made my days a wonderful adventure..you saved lives on 9/11 but to us your Family you were and always will be our life..and we will NEVER FORGET..
John Napolitano
September 11, 2016
My Son I love and miss you...it has been 15 years since that day that you gave your life saving others and your Heroism and all the Heroes who were with you inspired and united a Nation..
Today we are a 911 Family..we are not Republicans or Democrats..we are not Left or Right..not Black, White or Brown or any shade in between..the Ash of the Trade Center made us all Grey..we are a 911 Family and we always will be..we will from time to time have our differences, all Families do..but when push comes to shove we will come together because..we are a 911 Family..and We Will Never Forget..
I love you Son.
Dad
Donna Napolitano Lundy
September 11, 2016
Though I do not know you I feel we are connected. My maiden name is Napolitano and I have a brother John. Today is the 15 year anniversary of that unforgettable day in 2011 and I felt the need to say thank you for your service. You are a true hero, and you will never be forgotten. May God bless your family and friends. And God bless America.
John Napolitano
July 4, 2016
My Son I love and miss you so much..today is your Birthday and you are in all our thoughts, your family and friends everyone who loves you and also those who came to know you because of your Heroism and Sacrifice on 9/11.. The 4th of July the Birth of a Great Nation and the Birth of Great Man..and the Birth of a Great Son..I see you every day..you are with me always..Happy Birthday in Heaven..I Will Never Forget..
Fred Bellucci
March 30, 2016
Though I never knew John personally, through thoughts and memories from his family and friends I feel I have gotten to know him intimately. I perceive John as a loyal and loving son. A caring and unselfish public servant, but most of all a loving, adoring and dedicated husband and father. I never met you John but truly feel I know you and hopefully am a better person because of that. I know you now rest in peace and continue to look over your family. A true hero.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2015
My Son I love and miss you..today is Christmas and we miss you so much every Holiday without you is so much less a Joyous celebration...not a day goes by that I don't see the debris field..the horror that you faced at the Trade Center with Profound Courage and compassion..the lives that you saved that day has given Families a true Merry Christmas, you gave gifts of life to so many and although you are not here for me to celebrate this Christmas Day with you I still hear your voice and see your smile and feel your love and the memory of you is for me a most precious Christmas Gift and for this I am most grateful and wish for you in Heaven a Merry Christmas my Son.. I love you
John Napolitano
November 26, 2015
My Son I love and miss you, more and more each day, Time truly is a relentless Enemy, but today is Thanksgiving, and I will think about you and feel your love, and see your smile, and hear your laugh, and I will not let Time win.. I will never let Time win. Many are celebrating this day with the Loved Ones whose Life you saved that Day in September fourteen years ago..Time has made them older, for some their hair may be grey, their steps a little bit slower, but you my Son I see you as I did the Day before you gave your Life so that Others may Live..it is Thanksgiving, and our years together were not enough, they could never be enough, but I am Thankful for all the seconds of every hour of every day that we had..I will always see your smile, hear your laugh and feel the love..Time will never take that away..Today is Thanksgiving and I am Thankful for everyone that is in my Life and that is also for you my Son for neither Time or anything else will take you From me..The message that I wrote in the Trade Center ash when I searched for you is as true today as it was that Day in September..
Rescue2 John Napolitano.. I'm here and I love you..Dad
Jason Countryman
September 11, 2015
I climbed in honor of john at the 9/11 stair climb in Dallas Texas this year. I wore the lanyard with his picture and carried his par tag to the top and cried when they rang the bell.
John Napolitano
September 11, 2015
My Son I love and miss you.. it is 9/11/2015 the fourteen year Anniversary of the Day in September, when so many hearts were broken, when Heroes and Saints were made.. but before you became America's Hero, before you became a Saint, to your Mother and I, you were, and always will be our Son.. Your Three Girls are still doing you Proud Son, Anne did a Great Job, Emma is in High School and she is a Junior Volunteer just as you were with the Lakeland Fire Department, and Elizabeth is in College and is going to be a Teacher, not just a Teacher but one who will help Kids with Special needs...you would be so Proud Son.. your Mother sits alone this day..she does that every year, if she should fall asleep, whisper in her ear, tell her it's alright, tell her that you love her..do that for your Sisters too, it has been very hard on them, time is a relentless Enemy, but as for me Son..I'm okay..the Memory of you is all I need to carry me through..I will not allow any hurt that I feel to beat me, because I have you Son..I will always have you.. so I admit that on this day that I too need to find a place to sit alone, but then again I am not really alone..I have you by my side..
I love you..
Dad
Sifu Chris Bouguyon
September 11, 2015
May those who knew you best find peace in the love you shared and the life you lived. Your courage and service will live on in the hearts of those you rescued.
Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Mike Dana
September 10, 2015
Myself and a few friends did the first Heroes Memorial Stair Climb at Reunion Tower Dallas in May 2015. We named our team "Napolitano's FDNY Res2cue". You are always remembered and never forgotten my friend on September 11th and every other day of the year.
Lydia Burns
September 9, 2015
September 11 means more to me then most. It is not only my deceased son's birthday but the day you and so many other died. I wish I had the power to undo what was done so so many parents hearts wouldn't be broken. Hugs to your family. Your distant cousin.
Michael Perrotta
August 29, 2015
It is coming up on fourteen years, and not a day has gone by that I don't think of you.
There Once Was A Boy Who Dreamed Of Making A Difference.. And Became A Man Who Did..
John Napolitano
July 4, 2015
..There Once Was A Boy Who Dreamed About Making A Difference..
..And Became A Man Who Did..
My Son I love and miss you.. that Day in September you and many other Heroes, made a Difference..you saved so many Lives and showed the World an answer to Evil and loving Face of Humanity a True Face of Humanity..your Compassion and Courage gave us all Hope..and it will Never be Forgotten..
Today is your Birthday, and before you became America's Hero..before you became a Saint, to your Mother and I on this Day in July those years ago you became our Son..you will always be in our Hearts and you will always be..The Good Son.. Happy Birthday my Son..I Love You..
I Will Never Forget..
S J. Friscia III
May 21, 2015
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2014
My Son I love and miss you, it is another Christmas without you since that Day in September 2001 when Heroes were made Saints, and I and your Mother and everyone who had the Honor to love and know you miss you so much..but your presence is very much with us and it will always be so, and although I see everyday the images of that horrible day in September, when so many Sons and Daughters were taken away, I always see you saving Lives..you couldn't save them all and you couldn't save yourself, but there are Families celebrating a Christmas Day without a broken heart, because of your Bravery, your Courage and Compassion..you gave the greatest of all Christmas Gifts to Strangers..you gave the Gift of Life..and on this Day I see more in my quiet moments..I see the debris Field I smell the ash, I see a young Woman under a Steel Beam..and more..these thoughts will NEVER leave me..I call your name and write a message to you in the Ash..I believe that you saw it.. but I also see the peaceful face of a baby, I see and hear the laughing Boy, the smile of a young man, and a Hero who was and always be a Hero first to His Mother and me..these are my Christmas Gifts, they are the best that I can ever receive..Merry Christmas Son..I Love You..I will Never Forget..
Dad
John Napolitano
November 27, 2014
My Son I love you and miss you so much. Today is Thanksgiving Day, a day that we give Thanks for all that we have, Thanks for all those that we have in our Life..those that we can reach out and hug, and those that we can only hug with our tears and our heart. I have never stopped hugging you my Son..I will never stop hugging you..though not here, you are not gone, you will never be gone, I hear your laugh, I see your smile, I feel your love..you are always with me for every second of every hour of every day..and for this I am thankful , this Thanksgiving Day..and all the Days.. I love you..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
John Napolitano
September 13, 2014
My Son I miss and love you..this year was extra hard on us and I know that you know why because your Nephew Joey is with you now...so hard..but I hear you Guys..I do..
I spoke to you on this Anniversary day, a Day when Hero's and Saints were made, and I spoke about you to others, and about those who were with you on that Day in September, I always do and know that you would not want it any other way..Children who were not born yet when you gave your Life so Others may live..they cried for you Son..and they will remember.. I told them that you were not a Hero because of the tragic way that you died, that you died while saving lives, bit you were a Hero my son because you Lived to save Lives..and dedicated your Life to helping others.. Today there are many Memorials about that Day in September, 11, 2001, and many of these Memorials have pieces of Steel from the Towers of the World Trade Center that collapsed on that fateful day and they say that from where that Steel came was Sacred Ground and whenever I speak I say this, and I say that where we are now with that Steel that we are on Sacred Ground, but that this Ground was made Sacred long before that piece of Steel got here, it was made Sacred when first stepped upon it ..a First Responder..
My Son you now live on Sacred Ground and with you this year is your Nephew Joey Grosso..look out for Him and tell Him that I miss Him.. that "Pops" loves Him..and I love you too..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
Lydia Burns
September 12, 2014
I thought of you a lot this week. My son would have turned 42 yesterday Sept 11th. Both of you were too young to die. You gave you life protecting others. Maybe you'll meet your cousin in heaven. Hugs to you family. So very sorry.
Andrew Musto
September 12, 2014
John was my partner at Peconic Ambulance on Long Island for a couple of years. One of my fondest memories is the time he and his then girlfriend and future wife Anne along with me and another friend went to Maine together for a weekend at a cabin. John had the greatest sense of humor and always made me smile. He was dedicated to his job, both at the ambulance and the volunteer FD in Lake Ronkonkama, which he was a member of at the time. When I moved away we lost touch but he was never forgotten. To his beautiful wife and children know you are in my thoughts as is John.
The bracelet I wear every year.
Darlene Smith
September 11, 2014
I'm thinking about you today as I have many times since 9/11.
I'm especially humbled by you even though I never knew you. Why? Because I bought a bracelet made with your initials engraved on it. Since then, every September 11th, I get this bracelet out, wrap it around my wrist and think about you and your family. I've looked up your biography, seen many pictures and was honored to have received an email from your father welcoming me as part of the ‘extended 9/11 family.' He included pictures of you in uniform and playing in the pool with one of your two daughters.
The moments of silence we shared today as a nation couldn't possibly make this day any easier for your family or the thousands of other families affected, but like a lot of people I know, I closed my eyes and prayed for your family and those who hurt today and every day from this horrible loss.
I PROMISE YOU - I WILL NEVER FORGET.
Carly
September 11, 2014
Hello i go to a Catholic school in south florida a i felt the urge to tell you that today at our school we got a name of someone who had passed during 9/11 and i got John Napolitano. we were told tp pray for our person and wear his name all day. i just want to let you know John and his family our in my prayers
Brian Mcdonaugh
July 18, 2014
It's been many years John. We met after my wife reached out to you following September 11. Your words, written in the dust of a ruined building continue to serve as guiding force in my life. A simple message but so profound: "John Napolitano, Rescue 2, I'm here and I love you Dad". I hope your in good health. They built a new building but never filled the hole.
JOHN NAPOLITANO
July 4, 2014
My Son I love and miss you, today the 4th of July is your birthday and I see your smiling face and hear your laugh..I always will..I see the baby, the child and the man, and I see the Hero who dedicated his life to protect others..the Hero Firefighter who showed the World Courage and Compassion and who made the Supreme Sacrifice to save others that Day in September.. History will say that you are an American Hero because of your actions on September 11, 2001, but to your Mother and I you became our Hero on the 4th of July 1968.. the day you were born..Happy Birthday my Son in Heaven...I Will Never Forget.. I love you.. Dad
Mark Angelo
July 4, 2014
John
Thinking of you on your birthday as I always do. I remember our youth together so fondly and I will always be proud to have known you and your wonderful family. As the years go by I see what a true blessing you were to all those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with you and I can only say for my myself that it seems like yesterday that we were racing each other to see who was faster (you usually won but I was right behind you!!) or just flopping around your house watching TV or raising hell on the mean streets of Ronkonkoma, or playing baseball just being kids together. I miss you buddy!!
John Napolitano
December 25, 2013
Merry Christmas in Heaven my Son, I miss and Love you, although you are not here I did not spend my Christmas without you, it has been like that for every Christmas since you gave your life that day in September saving so many but not being able to save yourself..since that day I see you every Christmas Eve when I close my eyes and when I wake on Christmas Morn, it is you that I see my Son, I see a baby who celebrated his first Christmas, the Toddler and child opening Christmas Gifts, the young man, the husband and the Father making Christmas wishes come true, and making my days a wonderful adventure.. so my Son this year I had a happy and Merry Christmas because I have had and still have the greatest gift of all..I have you..in my heart and in my mind, and you are still making for me, my days a most wonderful adventure..I love you Son..Merry Christmas..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
G Bryan
December 3, 2013
Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.
..a Boy who dreamed of making a difference, and grew to become ..a Man who did..
John Napolitano
November 28, 2013
My Son I love and miss..today is Thanksgiving and although you are not here you are still so very much with us..I feel your presence every minute of every day, and it has not changed or diminished since that they you lost your life as you courageously saved so many others..and of those who were able to flee the horror of the North Tower and saw your face going up the stairs as you were going down, I wonder if on this Day of giving Thanks..did they see your Face again. I have much to be thankful for my Son, all of those who have been part of my Journey, and as for you, my Son, whose Journey has ended, you are still with me on this Day, you are in my heart and in my mind, and in my memories that I can play like a movie whenever I choose, and the scenes I never tire of seeing..I see the Boy who dreamed of making a difference and I see the Man who did..yes my Son a broken heart does not stop me from being thankful for having the most wonderful soon..till we are together again Happy Thanksgiving in Heaven my Son..I Will Never Forget..
Dad
John Napolitano
September 11, 2013
I Love and Miss you my Son, it has been twelve years since that Day when so many Victims and Heroes were made, your Courage my Son not only saved Lives, but touched them as well, your Legacy will inspire others for years to come and I tell others of not only your Courage, but your Dignity, Respect for all Life and your Compassion, your acts of Humanity and kindness even at a young age. I never found you in the Rubble my Son, but then again you have never left me either, you are with me every second of every minute of every hour of every day, and it will be so..till the end of time..IWill Never Forget..
Dad
carmen fletcher
September 11, 2013
I didn't know John Napolitano when he was with us...however...i had that opportunity by watching a very special documentary on NAT GEO. Iam from panama. Republic of panama...even though im far away...i remember what happen 12 years ago...i send my best wishes to johns family, wife and daughters...
Georgeann O'Connell
September 11, 2013
Johnny Napp! A name we heard over and over in our home. Pete O'Connell started the Lakeland Juniors. He was living his young dream. Pete could have gone in many directions at the young age of 15-16, Peter had some difficulities,but Johnny Nap, was there to guide him, share his wisdon and keep on the straight and narrow.Johnny became Pete's hero.
As time went on Pete grew into a fine young man. He developed great self-confidence with Johnny at his side.
As for myself and my husband, Johnny was there to help us greive the loss of my Mom. At the funeral, I started feeling shaky and turned to see Johnny in the back with the other Lakeland firefighters. He smiled and nodded his head. My son smiles and I felt better.
Johnny's name is still a household word in our family. Peter is now a NYPD firefighter with Johnny dedication and wisdom. We know we were touched by an angel in our lives for a short time.
Prayers for Johnny's girls and fanily.
Denise Marano
September 11, 2013
We remember you today John and your family. We recall the day and the hero you became. I remember baby John the little boy. We will never forget you and the sacrifice you made.
Lydia Fioto Burns
September 11, 2013
Thinking of you today and the sacrifice you made to save others. Your distant cousin.
Michael Dana #6469
September 10, 2013
I have never posted before but have continually thought of John over the years since our paths crossed for a short period of time. I worked briefly for a private ambulance company (Peconic Ambulance in Aquebogue) on the east end of Long Island in the late 1980s after I discharged from the Army. I was in awe of Johns experiences as a volunteer fireman, and appreciated the many positive qualities he possessed. John and others I knew from that company of course went on to pursue a career in Fire and I chose to move to Dallas to become a police officer in 1990. Police, Fire, and Military are all connected to me. Johns loss and the loss of so many great people who serve pains us all but no one more then their immediate families. Life is short, life is fragile, life is precious. I try to never take it for granted and feel the only thing I or we can do is keep the memories of people we love alive. I may have not known John for long but he made a huge positive impression upon me that has lasted and when ever I have gotten the chance I share a piece of his story. So from across the United States in Dallas Texas on September 10, 2013 John Napolitano is never forgotten and always remembered.
September 10, 2013
Bright Futures Academy 6th Grade Class:
We thank you and we love you, John Napolitano. Thank you for saving the people in the North Tower and risking your life.Thank you so much for risking your life for others. From Johnny your nephew: "I miss you and I love you very much even though I didn't see you much I hate to see my family cry but, I am happy for you because I know you are in a better place and I can not wait to see you again."
Thank you so much from Mrs. Ludlow's and Johnny's 6th grade homeroom class from Bright Futures Academy in North Palm Beach Florida.
John Napolitano
July 30, 2013
4th of July 1776 the Birth of a Great Nation..4th of July 1968 the Birth of a Great Man..my Son..you devoted your life in helping others, and were loved and respected by so many, on September 11, 2001 your Journey ended as you were saving lives and facing grave danger at the World Trade Center..you never stepped back..when the World was shocked by acts of evil, the World was inspired by the Acts and Faces of Courage and Compassion..the World saw your Face my Son, and all the Faces of our Heroic First Responders,this is what good and decent People throughout will always embrace..On the 4th of July 1968, before you became an Angel, before you became a Firefighter, before you became an American Hero, on that day, to your Mother and I..you became our Son..I Love you Son..Will Never Forget..
John Napolitano
January 1, 2013
A New Years Day Tale..In Loving Memory of you Son..and Others..
One day many years ago I went into my shed in our backyard..I grew up in Williamsburgh, Brooklyn we didn't have a shed, come to think of it..we didn't have a back yard either..so anyway here I am a homeowner in Lakeland, Ronkonkoma, New York, we bought the house a few years back and we were happy that our kids had it a little bit better than we did, my Son John was about 15 now, Dawn was 13 and Stacy was 9..so I go to the shed, don't remember why, probably going to do some homeowner stuff..and there in the shed was a Fire Hydrant..a big Red Fire Hydrant.. I close the shed door and just stood there, here I am A Cop in Brooklyn, and somewhere in Ronkonkoma a Street is missing a Fire Hydrant.. I'm thinking to my self, no way my Son John has any thing to do with this..he never got into trouble, he's an Honor Student..plus he's skinny, no way he can carry this thing, it probably weighs more than him.. but if he did put this thing in the Shed, I know his friend Terry Mawn had to have a hand in it, anyway I decided not to say anything right away, I will watch them and figure out what they are up too, so off in the corner of my shed is the mystery of the big Red Fire Hydrant.
Time went by and to tell the truth I never gave the Fire Hydrant a second thought,my Son and his Friends all used to hang out by my house, we were the last house on a dead end Street, no houses across the Street, in those days, my Wife Joann and I used to leave the doors unlocked in case the kids had to use the bathroom or if they got hungry or thirsty, when ever I came home from a tough tour, I used to park my car down the block and watch my Son and his Friends play and in time everything became right in the World again, they were good Kids..not perfect, like that Fire Hydrant thing..but they were good Kids..
Time went by, I come home and there is Firefighter Stuff in the House, I asked my Wife .."whats this".. she tells me that our Son John became a Junior Volunteer Firefighter with the Lakeland Fire Department, that all his Friends are doing it..so here they are the probable Kidnappers of the Red Fire Hydrant that is in my Shed, they are now "Volunteer Firefighters..John P Napolitano, Terry Mawn, Glen Pettit, John Defilippo, Peter Brennan, Billy Mahoney.. it will pass I thought to myself..they will get tired of it. Soon there was Alarms going off in the house at all crazy hours, and out the door my Son John would rush, the same scene going on in his Friends homes, I thought for sure now that they will get tired of this..I was wrong
Time went by the Kids are Men now, Terry and Glen are Cops, Billy John, Pete and my Son John are Firefighters with the FDNY, and they are still with the Lakeland Fire Department, all of them married with Kids of their own, except Glen.. I am so Proud of them, they are such really Good Guys..maybe one day I will ask them how the hell I got a Fire Hydrant in my Shed..
Time goes by..it is September, a clear and beautiful day, I am working for a Commercial Bakery that produces bread for some of the New York area Supermarkets, I go into the back of one of the Stores that I supervise, and someone who knew that I was once a Cop says to me.."What are you doing here..they are looking for Cops..off duty Cops and ex-Cops..we are at War"..that is how I find out about 9/11"..I try to call my Son at home I didn't know that he was already there..in time I find out that my Son and Pete, and Glen, and Billy are among the many missing Hero Firefighters and Police Officers, and also my lifelong Friend Lt John Crisci, FDNY, his Brother Lenny my Best Friend and also former NYPD,together we leave for the Trade Center..Lenny and I went to kindergarten together, right through the 8th grade..never did we ever think that we would be going through something like this..we were not prepared for the horror that we were going to see.. I write a message to my Son in the Trade Center ash..I want him to know that I am there..Lenny and I find a young woman under a Steel Beam, we make a Cross from the debris and place it by her..I say a Prayer, and I am thinking to my self that if someone finds my Son..will they do the same, perhaps my Son is beside me.."Don't cry Dad, she is no longer there, she is with me now, and she is alright..and so am I".. One day A Cop with a Search Dog is going past me and he stops, we make eye contact, it is Sgt Terry Mawn Suffolk County Police, Terry was my Son's Best Man when John married Anne.. Terry is exhausted and as he looks at the face of his Best Friends Father, he falls into my arms..I hug him and tell him to be careful, he nods his head then goes to look for his Friends, I leave where I am and climb up the Steel, I do not want to see anymore of my Sons Friends..this is too hard, on them and on me..I still see them playing by our House..as I go up a hill of Steel I see A Firefighter, his back to me, when he turns we face each other, it is Lt John Defilippo, he looks so sad..John used to come home from School with my Son and if it was a day that I was off I would be cooking, usually a big pot of gravy with meatballs, my Son would go to his room do his homework..John would sit and eat..now he is searching for his Friend..
Time goes by, Lt John Crisci is recovered, so is Police Officer Glen Pettit,and Firefighter Billy Mahoney..not recovered is Firefighter Peter Brennan, and my Son, Lt John P Napolitano, FDNY, Rescue 2.. One day I was babysitting for my Son's two Little Girls and Emma now 3 years old points at her Fathers Picture and with a big smile on her face says.."that's my Daddy"..and I say to her.."that's right, that's your Daddy"..Elizabeth now 6 years old used to draw a lot, just like her Father used too when he was a boy,I watch as she goes into her Fathers old bedroom with a piece of paper and when she comes out she doesn't have the paper, I go into the room and I see on my Son's old dresser a drawing of a little girl with golden hair and on the drawing in the print of a child are the words.."Daddy I Love You"..
Time goes by, the years where do they go, my Son's little Girls got big, we sell the house..I put a lot of stuff by the curb, but I am going to keep my Son's clothes..I see some Guys in a Pickup Truck going through the Items at the curb and when they see me they panic like they did something wrong, I tell them it is OK, they speak mostly Spanish but they understand me, I tell them to take what they want they are happy, one of the Guys was about my Son's size so I tell him to wait and I go in the house and bring out my Son's clothes and I give it to him, I tell them that I have some old but good furniture and that they could have it, they say yes and that they will come back with some help, and when they come back the young man that I gave the clothes to is wearing one of my Son's shirts and he is smiling from ear to ear, he points to the shirt and in a heavy accent he says.."..it like Christmas".. I smile at him and step away as they take whatever they could use, and when they leave, the young man gives me a hug.. and I think to myself.."Thank you Son"..
Time goes by, there are so many Holidays without those that we love, but yet they are with us, I know that I am not alone..all of those that we lost on 9/11 have Families that are hurting, and the hurt will NEVER go away..all the Son's and Daughters, Husbands and Wives, Brothers and Sisters, Friends that are in the Military, and are continuing the fight against Evil and have made the Supreme Sacrifice, all those that knew and loved them..are hurting..my Family does not stand alone with a broken heart..it seems that everyday somewhere in this Great Country, a Firefighter, or Police Officer, or other First Responder, loses their life to keep someone safe..and our Family grows..and yet we all find a way to turn to those who are still with us, those who we love, and find a smile and say the words.. "Merry Christmas".. "Happy New Year".. and I think that we are able to do this because not only do we appreciate the love that we feel from those who are here but because we still feel the love from those who are not...and although I see what I know so many others see when I close my eyes at night, the devastation, the senseless horror of that day in September..a Flag draped Stokes basket, a Hero carried by Hero's..a young Woman, covered in ash..the faces of childhood friends, playing together..the Face of Hero with a number 2 on his helmet, a Face that says.."no harm will come to you..not on my watch"..I also see the smiling Face of a Boy who wanted to make a difference, and the Face of a Man..who did..
Time goes by, it is News Years Day, and to all my Friends in Family, I wish all of you a Happy New Year, and for me today I am Happy, and celebrate the New Year with you because I still see a smiling Face and I hear a voice that says.."Merry Christmas, Dad..and a Happy New Year"..
We sold the House, coincidentally to a Retired NYPD Sargent, he actually worked in one of the Houses that I worked in ..he and his wife were very sad to hear about my Son and were honored that the Street sign across from the House on the corner said.."Lt John P Napolitano Drive"..his wife asked me to leave a picture of John, which I did, and I also left some things that I wouldn't be needing, some furniture and a computer table, and a television..and also in the Shed..a Big Red Fire Hydrant..
John Napolitano
December 26, 2012
My Son I love and miss you it is another Christmas without you, but yet my Son you are still with us..you always will. There has been some terrible tragedies recently, I think about those who left us too soon, and the heartache of those who love them, so with you and them in mind I have a Christmas Prayer..I just don't know what else to do..
My Christmas Prayer..
" Dear God today is Christmas Eve, and I am a little angry at you, your probably saying to yourself.."so what else is new".. you took a couple of Fireman today, I don't know yet about any Police Officers, or any of our Troops..don't know why you would need any of them on this day..come to think of it I don't know why you just don't leave them alone, let them grow old and take them peacefully, but your Spiritual Leaders tell me that you have a Divine Plan..okay I admit that I don't understand this, and that I am not a perfect person that I may have from time to time bent some of your rules..but I always said that I was sorry and try my best to not bend them again..and even though I get mad at you..I never disliked you..I just don't understand, anyway I will get to the Point..tomorrow is Christmas, it is your Son's Birthday, my Son was born on the 4th of July, but you already know that..more on that later..here's the thing, do you think that on your Son's Birthday, you could maybe give us a break, could you just once alter your Divine Plan, could you not ask your Guardian Angels to look away for a second, let them do their job..there have been so many times that too many of us have seen what happens when these Angels look away, History has too many of these Tragedies, there was Lincoln, and King, and the Kennedy's, 9/11, Newton Connecticut, the List goes on..and speaking of 9/11, why so many?..why so many First Responders, Police Officers and Firefighters ?..when I asked you to please let me bring a Loved one home, let me find someone, wipe the dust from their face.. you give me a young lady, covered in grey ash, a steel beam across her head..didn't my friend Lenny and I make a Cross and stand it up by her..didn't I Pray to you even though I was mad at you..I wish that there was someone better than me asking you for this favor but here goes..Please tell your Guardian Angels that are watching over our Troops on Christmas Day, to be extra watchful..and Please tell your Guardian Angels that are watching over our EMS and Paramedics on Christmas Day to be extra watchful, and the same for our Police Officers and Firefighters, the Angel watching over the Police Officer who doesn't see the gun pointed at him or hear the pop as the bullet races towards him can you have that Angel blow that bullet away, and the Firefighter carrying a limp Child as that Firefighter races through a hellish inferno looking for an escape, can you have that Angel blow a path through the smoke and maybe give that Firefighter a little push..oh and one other thing, that limp Child will be alright of course.. So that's it..that's all I have to say except for one more thing..getting back to the Divine Plan thing, if for some reason you should ask one of your Guardian Angels that is assigned to Firefighters, to look away for a second but he does not and disobeys you, and this Angel is a nice young Man, soft spoken, a nice looking Boy, with a warm and friendly smile and he has a number 2 on his helmet..go easy on him, I spoke about him earlier, this Guardian Angel, Lt John P Napolitano, FDNY, Rescue 2..He is my Son"..
So that's it my Son, it was what is on my mind, it has been that way since that Day in September when you saved so many lives and when you and others, showed the World the true meaning of Courage and Compassion, a Spirit of Christmas in September. So my Son all of us who are here and missing you will find the time to smile over a tear, and wish each other a Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for a coming New Year, as for me my my unanswered wish will always be that on September 11, 2001, that your Guardian Angel..didn't look away..
Merry Christmas Son..I WILL NEVER FORGET..
Dad
John Napolitano
November 22, 2012
My Son I love and miss you..it is Thanksgiving Day, one of your favorite holidays and I am thankful for all the days that you made for me being a Dad so joyous..I see every page so clearly, as if it was just yesterday maybe that's because you are still with me..I can't touch you, but I see you and I hear you...and will forever be thankful for all the days that you made wonderful, you never let us down, you have touched so many in a positive way, and you left this World saving lives, but before you became one of America's hero's, before you became an Angel..a Saint, to your Mother and I you were and always will be ..our Son..and you have always made for us all our days..a day of Thanksgiving..I love you Son..I will Never Forget..
Dad
Michael E Napolitan. Jr
October 30, 2012
I hope no harm came to you or your family during the past storm I also praise all emergency and rescue personal for your bravery. Very proud of all of you. I'm sure John was watching along with all the others. My thoughts and prayers to all of you
MICHAEL NAPOLITAN JR
October 25, 2012
My heart goes out to your family.
Although we do not know each other I feel connected by names sake I have been told we are related by blood my great grandfather family moved from NEW YORK to Springfield mass or visa versa but regardless it doesnt change the situation
Lt. Julie Weber
September 12, 2012
John, Yesterday I climbed 110 stories in Denver,Colorado with your picture clipped to my bunker gear. I climbed for you and for your sacrifices as well as that of your brothers and sisters. I will hang your picture in my living room and it will serve as a reminder of what dedication and self sacrifice look like. I pray for peace for your family and they will be in my prayers. I will never forget you.
John Napolitano
September 12, 2012
September 11, 2012..and on this 11th Anniversary of that Day that the World saw the horrific attack of evil, but the World also saw the face of Courage and Compassion, they saw our Hero's they saw you my Son, and the Hero First Responders, Firefighters and Police Officers..all the Hero's who made the Supreme Sacrifice while saving others, that Day in September, and every Anniversary of that Day, a Nation Cries..but for you my Son, your Mother and I and everyone who loves you, we cry every Day..we see you every day, we close our eyes we see you smile and we hear your voice..it is as strong in us today, as it was all those yesterdays.
It was very tough on your Mother at the 9/11 Ceremony that we attended, your Sisters and nephew John was there, it was in a Church there were many People in attendance and you Mom held it together until there was the soulful wail from a Lone Bagpiper..she went back in time.. I remember having to turn back from going into the City because of an important phone call, I rushed into the house, up the stairs, your Mother was kneeling sitting on the floor, being held by your Aunt Diane, crying and saying.."my baby..my baby..no no".. over and over again.. I finally make it to the Trade Center.."Uncle" Lenny at my side..I write in the ash.."Rescue2 John Napolitano.. I'm here and I love.. Dad".. and I never left..I see it every day, it haunts me..but I see also your Face, and your Courage, and I hear you Son.
On September 11, 2001, you became America's Hero, but before that to your Mother and I, you my Son, were our Hero, and you will always be..your Mothers Baby..we love you Son..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
jackie panichella
September 11, 2012
John I want you to know that I think of your heroism and pray for your family often..you are missed always and never forgotten..
John Napolitano
April 8, 2012
My Son I love and Miss you, today is Easter, a most Solemn Holy Day in the Christian World..it is about a Man who believed that Man and Woman had the capacity to love one another, regardless of who they were, rich or poor, without prejudice, and without the benefit of any type of gain, except that it was the right thing to do.. this Man so believed in us that we could rise above our own frailities and faults and fears and would comfort and protect even those People that we do not even know..He believed this so much, that He placed Himself in grave danger, and gave His Life so that others may "Live"..The World has not yet learned the true meaning of this Man that we call Jesus, some may not Believe in Him, and some may Believe..but then there are those who live as he did..not to Preach, or give Sermon or instruct others, but they rise above their own human frailities, they look beyond any prejudice, and they respect the sanctity of Life..and some are willing to place themselves in grave danger to protect and save those who cannot do so themselves..one of those People were you my Son..you devoted your Life as a Firefighter, to help others, to rush into where so many are trying to flee..without knowing who you are going to Save, and without any Personal gain other than to fulfill your desire to help someone..to save a Life..to keep their Loved Ones from Sorrow..for at least another Day. On September 11, 2001, the World saw the Horror,brought by a segment of Evil that exists in Mankind, but also on that Day the World saw, the Profound Good that is also in Mankind, they saw Courage and Compassion, they saw Angels with dirty Faces, they saw you my Son, and the other Hero Firefighters, and Police Officers who went about their Devine Calling to Saving Lives, and on that Day in September,you gave your Life my Son, you and others gave your Lives..so that others may Live.. I searched in the ash of that Horror..I saw the devastation that hate and prejudice can cause..but I saw the Courage and the Sacrifice of you and others..I never found you Son, but I never lost you,I see you and I hear you, and you are with me every second of every day. Christians say that on Easter Day that Jesus had risen..whether one chooses to believe this or not, if we all believe in His message, if we all believe that this Man gave His Life for all of us, if we remember those who gave their Lives to protect others, so that others may Live..maybe those who are so filled with rage and hate for those who choose to not be like them can learn that all life is preciouse and equeal in spite of being different, and maybe we can learn to live without the Sword..Some of us celebrate Easter, but then there are those like you my Son, and the Hero Firefighters and Police Officers who were with you that Day in September..who Live Easter..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
Lydia Burns
February 11, 2012
I didn't know John, but we are 2nd cousins 1x removed. I personally know the loss of a son. I just want to say I am sorry you lost him. Life is not the same, nor will it ever be without your child. I can't really add much, you have said it all in your notes. We used to live in Boynton Bch. It would have been nice to have known him. He sounds like a great young man. Again I am so sorry for your loss.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2011
My Son today is Christmas, and I miss you more than words can say..we your Family exchanged gifts,we hugged and we smiled, but behind the smile there is always the tears..our love for you burns like a defiant candle that will not blow out in the wind, I can not touch you my Son, but I feel you, I hear you and I see you each and every day. Your Courage and Compassion gave the gift of life to so many that day in September, and for the Families of those that you have saved,your Heroism has made for them many a Joyous Christmas over the years, but I tell you this my Son..that I still feel your Love..I hear your voice and I see your smile, and the memory of you..has made and will always make my Christmas's Joyous..Merry Christmas in Heaven my Son. I Love you..I Will Never Forget..
Dad
RSMS Peace Sign
Beth Weers
October 10, 2011
At Rising Starr Middle School in Fayetteville, GA, the students, teachers and some parents stood in the shape of a peace sign while the chorus sang beautifully in the background. We all wore red, white and blue ribbons with the names of two heroes who gave up their lives on 9/11. I wore John's name. I have been praying for him and his family ever since. I keep the ribbon on my nightstand to remind me that my freedom isn't free. Thank you to John's family and God bless all of you.
Jordan Hutchinson
September 22, 2011
John
THANK YOU for your heroism. I pray for your family everyday. It hurts so much to think about your memory and to read your dads comments but I love hearing the stories he tells. You were a very brave man and its heartbreaking that people had to learn alot about youthrough your heroism on 9/11. I will always keep you in myprayers. rest in peace hero
john napolitano
September 12, 2011
my son it has been ten years since that day in september,but for me i have no measure of time..9/11 is my yesterday,my today and my tomorrow. I miss you so much and yet I see youu,I hear your voice and feel your love.. every moment of every day.lenny and i went back to the trade center, and again i saw your profound courage as you saved lives in the north tower..I again walked in the ash trying to find you.but this time it was different,this time besides lenny. both your sisters were with me..and so was your mother..did you see them son..was that your kisses in the breeze that touched their cheeks..did you feel the love that they have for you..so much love. my son you saved so many lives that day in september, and you have touched so many lives since then you have left a legacy not only by your sacrifice and your actions on one tragic day, but by all of your days, the heroic way that you lived..you and all the heros who rose against the evil that attacked innocent and defensless people has inspired all nations that believe in freedom.. and it is your love and courage that is saving us, those that love you..we will always feel your presence, see your smile,and hear your laugh and this will keep me strong till i can touch you again, but if you can from time to time, on a soft breeze that toches your mothers cheek.. sed her a kiss.. i love you son..i will never forget.. dad
September 12, 2011
My son went to daycare with John's girls, he is the same age as Elizabeth, our kids weren't in the same room so we didn't really know each other. But when my son was maybe 1 1/2 and John would sometimes pickup Elizabeth with his Lakeland truck and for a baby boy that loved fire trucks you could imagine my little guys joy when he saw it in the parking lot. One day we were admiring the truck and John came out, we had a conversation about my son’s love of fire trucks and John put on the lights. Well every time after that day if he saw us he did this without hesitation. This brought my boy such pleasure and it is something that I have carried with me since that day. It just shows what a wonderful person he was and my heart aches that his family has missed 10 years with him. It kills me that those girls were deprived of someone who was obviously a wonderful loving dad. I think of his wife and girls often and hope that life has given them happiness.
My lasting image of him will always be of him leaving daycare with one in his arms and the other holding his hand. Peace and prayers to his family. I will never forget…
Marianne Lee
September 11, 2011
Thank you John! I still can't believe it has been 10 years. You will NEVER be forgotten!
Marianne
lorena heinrich
September 11, 2011
Thank you john...
Maryann Anderson Drageland
September 11, 2011
Thank you John. May your family find some comfort in the words of love found here. Thank you to everyone who will always remember John and all of our neighbors who died that terrifying day.
Matt
September 5, 2011
Mr. Napolitano,
I am a Firefighter/Paramedic in Richardon, Texas. On the 10th anniversary, I have been given the amazing honor to climb 110 floors here in Dallas with 342 other firefighters who will each represent and remember the individual heroes who gave their lives on that day ten years ago. I am to climb in memory of your son John along with others who will represent the rest of Rescue 2. Thanks to your many letters and vivid descriptions that you have written, I have a small glimpse of your son's character. I must tell you that words cannot describe how difficult it is to imagine the loss you and the rest of the people who loved John must have suffered. I would just like you to know that I am grateful for his sacrifice. When I go to work, I will be mindful of his love for others that drove him to be the man he was. His example continues to inspire firefighters like myself to do their job with the level of excellence that characterized John's life. Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. God bless you and your family. God bless John's wife and two beautiful daughters. We never met, but I will never forget him.
Patt
July 7, 2011
John, I first want to thank you for sharing your in depth words and recollections of your wonderful son. Within these words, I and others feel closer to and we catch a glimse of your sons soulful heart and the eternal love you have for him. I pray often for you and I know your son feels the depth of your fatherly love. God Bless you . Know that I think of you often.
John Napolitano
July 4, 2011
There are many Hero's significant to why our Nations Birthday means so much to us..you my Son are one of those Hero's.
.."Mr Napolitano..you have a Son"....
I remember those words like it was yesterday..now more than ever I hear those Doctors words. Astoria General Hospital,no longer there today, it was July 4th, 1968, I was in the Army, we were a Country divided, there didn't seem to be much Patriotism this 4th of July..my Father was at my side in t...he waiting room, when the Doctor came in and told me that I was a Father, and said those beautiful words to me. My Father at my side, the biggest grin that I ever saw on his face, as we stood by the glass to see his Grandson, my face and my hands pressed against the glass, like a Kid in a candy store as I looked at this miracle among miracles. I took it all in, the baby bed that he was in..the name "John P Napolitano".."look Dad..he's over eight pounds".. like it was yesterday..his eyes were closed..he opened them for a second.."did he see me".. he yawned, then closed his eyes..and he smiled.. the smile that I see, and will always see..every single day.. The Adventure begins..
John made for me, being a Dad very easy..nothing to it.. he just seemed to do everything right..sure he cried once in awhile as babies do, but he didn't do it often, and stopped right away, growing up he never really asked for a lot of things..he just appreciated whatever he got, when his Sisters came along, first Dawn then Stacy, he was a Trooper..and took it in stride. Christmas mornings, even as a little guy, he was the consumate "Big Brother"..getting out of the way as they tore through the presents under the Christmas Tree, patiently waiting his turn. One day John's Kindergarten Teacher showed up at our Brooklyn apartment with Andy Hardy and Nancy Drew books, my Wife and I were surprised at what his Teacher told us.."your Son can read, these books are for him".. I said to her that she must be mistaken, he looks at the Newspapers and magazines, but.."no" she said.."He reads"..and spoke to us at length about considering putting him into a "Special School" for intelligent Children, like him. When the Teacher left, my Wife and I thought it best that he have a normal childhood, we will watch and encourage him, but we didn't want any pressures put on Him.. but from that day on I expected big things from Him..and he never let me down.
We moved to Long Island, bought a House, and John continued to do very well in School, he was an Honor Student and was inducted into the National Honor Society. I guess it was his Junior year in High School, I came home one day and saw Firefighter gear in the house, I asked my Wife what was this all about and she told me that our Son had become a Junior Volunteer Firefighter with our Community Fire Department, the Lakeland Fire Department.. "just a fad".. I thought".."he will get over it".. I was wrong.. it was just the beginning..
John practically maxed his SAT's, his scores were among the highest in our School District, I knew there were scholarships, but I was in the dark about, what College he was going to go to, he had been working as an Advanced EMT..so naturally I thought that he was going to be a Doctor.. I was wrong.. He told me that he was going to be a Firefighter..I tried to talk him out of it..go to College first..he listened patiently to what I had to say..another one of his virtues..listening.. and he said to me that, he would be a Firefighter, and that he would take every course that he could, to be the very best that he could be as a Firefighter, and then with everything that he would learn..that he would share this with others, and help them be the best that they could be..those that studied with John for the FDNY Lieutenants exam, I guess, could attest to this.. anyway for once I was right.. I knew that my Son would be saving Lives, I thought as a Doctor, with a stethoscope and a scapel..but instead he was going to do it with Courage and Compassion. In June of 1991, John was appointed to the Fire Department of the City of New York, he still continued to serve with the Lakeland Fire Department, holding every Rank, including Chief of the Department, and then one of it's Commissioners, he married Anne, his High School Sweetheart, together they had two beautiful little Girls, first Elizabeth, then Emma Rose..I became a very young and very Proud Grandfather.. the adventure was getting better all the time.. this being a Father is so easy.. I always waited for the "other shoe to drop"... it never did..that is until one day in September..
I walk into the loading area of one of the Stores that I supervise, joking with the guys that I see, they just look at me, one says.." what are you doing here?.. don't you listen to the radio?..they're looking for ex-Cops and off duty Cops.. we are at War !!".. I try to call my Son I knew that he would be going, I am going to tell him to not be a Hero, his home phone is busy, I guess he is getting instructions for mobilization, I call my house, my Wife is crying..John is already there..he worked last night.. In time I find out that my Son and every Member of Rescue2 is missing, I still do not know the full scope of what is going on..I find out that my Son's lifelong Friends from our neighborhood are also Missing, Police Officer Glen Pettit, Firefighter Bill Mahoney, and Firefighter Pete Brennan..I call my Lifelong and Best Friend Lenny, also a former NYPD Police Officer.. inseparable since infancy we grew up five house from each other in Brooklyn and went from Kindergaten through the 8th grade together..his Brother Lt John Crisci, Haz-Mat1..is missing..
With the help of some Courageouse Police Officers and Firefighters, Lenny and I get to what was being called.."Ground Zero".. Firefighter Billy Quick escorts us into the World Financial Center..he wishes us good luck..I thank him..and Lenny and I followed by a young Woman Reorter from the New York Post.. walk into the devastation.
In the Days and Weeks that followed Lenny and I saw the relentless, and profound stubborn Courage, Compassion and Commitment of my Son's "Brother and Sister" Firefighters and Police Officers as they risked Life and Limb to find our Hero's and the Victims that they died for in trying to save.. I removed debris a bucket at a time, climbed on steel not knowing where to look..even more afraid of what I would find..that first day I write a message with my finger in the ash, to my Son..I want him to know that I am there..that I Love him..Lenny and I find a young Woman under a steel beam..we make a Cross, stand it up by her..I say a Prayer..then move on.. we stand and salute as a Flag drapped Stokes basket is gingerly and solemnly carried down from the debris..Firefighter..Police Officer..or Civilian..it didn't matter.
As time went by Police Officer Glen Pettit was recovered, so was Firefighter
Billy Mahoney, and my Lifelong Friend Lt John Crisci.. we never recovered Firefighter Peter Brennan, and my Son, Lt John P Napolitano.
It will be ten years soon from that day.. "that the other shoe dropped".. it will be forty three years from that 4th of July Day in 1968.. and every 4th of July when People celebrate the Birth of our Great Nation..so will I.. but I will also celebrate the Birth and the Life of a Great Man, and although I see the face of someone in a Firefighters Helmet determined to save Lives.. I press my face up against the glass and I see the smile of a sleeping Baby..and I always will..
Father of Lt John P Napolitano FDNY, Rescue2..I Love You Son..I WILL NEVER FORGET..
July 4th, 1968 - September 11, 2001
Wendy L
May 2, 2011
May the death of Osama bin Laden bring some peace to your family and to all whose lives were changed forever on Sept.11th. May God continue to bless our troops and the USA.
Gregory Martin
April 18, 2011
When I was Chief of Lakeland FD John was one of my officers. Even at a young age he had wisdom, compassion, intellegence, and was a born leader. It was always a real pleasure working with John. I still mourn the lost of my friends.
JORDAN H
January 28, 2011
JOHN- IM SO INSPIRED BY YOUR HEROISM ON 9/11. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR BRAVERY ON 9/11. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EVERY NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU HERO. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU GAVE ON SEPT 11TH.
John Napolitano
December 25, 2010
Today is Christmas, and the first face that I saw when I woke this morning, was yours my Son..the same face that I see every morning when I wake, and the last face that I see each night before I sleep..it has been that way since that Day in September..when you gave your Life..so that others may live.
You my Son, is what the spirit of Christmas is all about..you showed the World on September 11, 2001 that which is good and decent in Humanity.. You and the Hero's that were with you on that Day are and always will be the ideals that we endear ourselves to and try to be, and although many of us will never have all of your Courage, if in trying makes us better and more compassionate in our feelings about others, perhaps the evil that causes the heartache to so many will finally be vanquished..what a wonderful World this would be..what better Christmas present could there be.
In seeing these great things in you, not only your Courage and commitment to decency and Honor, but seeing also the little things that for some are unimportant, but not to me..things like you kneeling to one knee to speak to a Child.. all the qualities that books are written about when talking about the quiet Hero's..I saw that in you..each and every day of your short Life.
You were for me my Son the most wonderful Christmas Present.. and so when I woke this morning and saw your Face, I saw again..my Most Wonderful Christmas Present.. Merry Christmas Son..Ilove You..
I Will Never Forget..
Dad
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