New York, New York
Firehouse Psychologist
When Michael Edward Roberts was just 4, his father took him to a firehouse and sat him on a rig parked there. That's all it took. From that moment on, life was a countdown to the Fire Academy. He took time to get a degree in psychology from the State University of New York at Buffalo, but "he knew without a doubt what he was going to do," said his father, Thomas Roberts, a retired New York City fire captain. "He'd say the only decision he needed to make was whether to grow up, or become a firefighter."
Finally, in February 1998, Michael Edward Roberts was formally admitted to the academy. He ended up at Ladder Company 35 near Lincoln Center. "He was so happy," said his sister, Lisa.
Firefighter Roberts continued to live in Pearl River, N.Y., where he grew up and where he mastered tournament darts for a local team. In the firehouse he listened to other people so intently that he came to be known as "the psychologist."
At his memorial service in November, Firefighter Roberts's family finally met the family of another Michael Edward Roberts, a firefighter with Engine Company 214 in Brooklyn. They exchanged greetings and politely commiserated about the confusion caused by their identical names and backgrounds, both 31, both sons of firefighters.
Then the families brought together by grief went their separate ways, one to Breezy Point, one to Pearl River. And Captain Roberts brought back his son's badge and put it in a frame in the living room.
It is badge No. 13392.
Michael you are never forgotten. Today we remember, honor, and celebrate your life! Thank you for your courage and your service to others. May the Lord surround your family and friends with peace and comfort. Rest in Peace
September 11, 2023 | FL
I was looking through victims with similar names, and he had the almost same name as my father (Stephen Michael Roberts). I pray for both Michael Edward Roberts, and their families. Thank you for being such a hero.
Beall Roberts
September 11, 2019 | VA
Remembering a friend who made you feel loved and safe. I can't forget the days we laughed and played hours of darts. You were always a comfort to be around and you will be missed dearly. May God hold you close and may you continue to be a hero from up above. You will never be forgotten!
Stanley Jean-Baptiste
September 11, 2017 | Danbury, CT
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
September 11, 2017
Remembered and honored. For your service, your courage and your sacrifice, I thank you. May God richly bless your family with peace. You are forever remembered
September 11, 2017 | NC
Today I did a 9/11 memorial stair climb near my home in New Mexico. I was given a card (it hangs from a lanyard in the photo I've attached) with FF Michael Edward Roberts from Ladder 35 - I climbed to his memory. I have been a volunteer firefighter since 1996, in New Mexico. I am originally from Northern NJ, therefore, NYC is my neighbor city. I was an officer in the US Public Service on 9/11 and was deployed to NYC in October and witnessed first hand the burning remains of the WTC....
ANN MARIE MCCARTHY
September 09, 2017 | Waterflow, NM
Michael- Another year has passed and your family and friends think of you often. Always remembered. cousin kathy
Kathy Johnson
September 10, 2014 | Danielson, CT
YOU WERE A BRAVE YOUNG MAN AND RISKED YOUR LIFE FOR OTHER YOU A SUCH A GREAT HERO
September 13, 2012
I am in class and my teacher is having us read about one person and pray for them. I chose Michael because I come from a firefighter family and honor what he did for us. Thanks for all you did Michael.
Blake Van leer
September 12, 2012 | Union, MO