Pearl River, New York
Rescuing and Calming
John D'Allara, a member of the New York Police Department's emergency service office in Harlem, was a rescue specialist on the scene at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11. During his 14 years on the job, he pried, cajoled or otherwise extracted a broad array of life forms from danger, dealing with a menagerie of exotic animals. Spider monkeys. Bats. Squirrels. One time, he saved an iguana. But he helped plenty of people, too.
"One time, we had a kid trapped in an elevator, with his head trapped between a beam and the elevator," said Sgt. Lee Hom, who worked with Officer D'Allara for five years in the late 1980's and early 90's. "He kept the kid calm, and we got him out."
A physical education teacher before he joined the Police Department, Officer D'Allara, 47, who lived with his wife and two sons, Johnny, 7, and Nicholas, 3, in Rockland County, intended to go back to teaching. "He loved the Police Department," said his brother, Dan. "But he was counting his paychecks to retirement."
I know the reality of losing John for those who loved him is everlasting grief. Even the passage of time will not diminish his loss. I simply hope his memory brings you peace, comfort and pride.
Katherine Harper
September 11, 2024 | Encinitas, CA
On this day of remembrance of the horrific events of that morning 22 years ago, we will always remember the heroic actions of John D'Allara. God bless his family and all those who loved him. We will never forget his sacrifice and those of all the first responders.
Kate Harper
September 11, 2023 | Encinitas, CA
Keeping you and your family in my prayers. The years go by but the sadness never ends.
Jean Zucconi Libonati
September 11, 2023 | Wantagh, NY | Friend
Thoughts today for all that was lost and the bravery I witnessed live on TV from the West Coast . RIP & Semperfi John D’Allara
Gayle Masingale
September 11, 2023 | CA
They say that time heals all wounds. 20 years. It seems that time has stood still as the world is still feeling the shock, pain and loss. We will never forget. My prayers to you, John, and your family.
Jean Zucconi Libonati
September 12, 2021 | Wantagh, NY | Friend
I still have Officer D’Allara’s memory bracelet and picture at my desk, and think of him often- 20 years and the day and his loss hurts my heart as keenly as it did then. I sincerely hope that his family is doing well and all my respect and condolences for all who loved him.
Katherine Grant
September 12, 2021 | Golden, CO | Acquaintance
It is difficult to realize 20 years has passed since the horror of that day. So many lives lost but we can never forget the selfless actions of those like John D'Allara who went into the burning towers to save lives and tragically never came out. My heart goes out to his wife, children, twin brother and all those who loved and miss him every day.
Katherine Harper
September 12, 2021 | Encinitas, CA
Dearest John,
I can't believe it's been 20 years since you left us that tragic, fateful day. Not a day goes by that you're not loved, missed, & thought about. You may be gone, but are certainly not forgotten. Thank for for your love, selfless dedication, graciousness to all those you touched, either in the field, on the force, or in the classroom. You left a legacy behind for Dan, Carol, Johnny, Nicholas . You will forever be in our hearts May you continue to rest in...
Alyssa Cutler
September 11, 2021 | Glasgow, KY | Family
John, what can I say that hasn't been said already. You were a bright light in so many people's lives and will NEVER be forgotten. We all miss you and pray for you and your family regularly. It will never make SENSE to me. When you left this world, I had a little over seven month old infant in a highchair watching the TV and the ongoing horror. That seven month old will be turning 21 in a few months, a LIFETIME without you here. Look down and continue to protect us from up above, as this...
BUD & KIM MOFFETT
September 11, 2021 | Friend
