Miller Place, New York
He Still Speaks to Her
Lt. Peter C. Martin had plenty of interests. He liked to watch Nascar races, "glued to the TV," said his friend, Lt. Peter Lund. He also kept track of how many fires he had been to, perhaps inspired by a book, "20,000 Alarms," that was lying around the Rescue 2 firehouse in Brooklyn.
And once a month, he would take out the antique rifles he collected, put on a cowboy hat and take aim at the buffalo silhouettes set up on a field in the Hamptons with other members of the local Single Action Shooting Society. There he was known as "Sidewinder Pete," a true aficionado to whom the group dedicated a memorial shoot last month.
But mostly, Mr. Martin, 43, cared about being a father to his three boys, ages 13, 9 and 6. His own father had died when he was 11 months old. "As much as he loved the Fire Department, his first love was ours," said his wife, Alice. "He would race home from work so he could put the boys to bed. He'd sing to them, and tell them stories. He had a whole routine."
Now Mrs. Martin is taking care of things on her own. "I get a lot of strength from Peter," she said. "I can almost hear him saying to me, 'Everything's O.K.' "
It was an honor to serve beside Pete when I was just a probie in the Valley Stream Fire Department. Pete always had words of wisdom for a young, inexperienced new firefighter. And I've remembered that my entire life. He touched many and inspired even more. Rest in Peace my friend. Thanks for your service.
Anthony Romano
September 11, 2024 | Friend
As years go by memories never fade. Thinking of the Martin family in thoughts and prayers.
Robin
September 11, 2024
A few months ago my company participated in, "Backing the Brave," where we climbed up several rounds of stairs to raise money in support of the families of fallen firefighters on 9/11. I was just cleaning out my room a little bit and stumbled across the lanyard I received for the event. I don't think I even noticed when I received it but each lanyard highlighted an individual firefighter that lost his/her life. The fallen hero on mine was Liutenant, Rescue 2 - Peter C. Martin. Not knowing...
Brandon Colbert
August 13, 2024 | Hillsborough, CA | Acquaintance
Another year, another candle, another prayer for the Martin family. Forever a hero. Forever remembered.
Robin
September 11, 2023 | RI
20 years ago you answered the call. You'll always be a hero because that's who you are.
Lynn Halstead
September 13, 2021 | Beckley, WV
Remembering, as we always will. Those who run to unimaginable danger for us all will never be far from our thoughts and prayers.
Pamela and Katharine Fowler
September 12, 2021 | Miller Place, NY | Neighbor
The Martin family remains in my thoughts on this 20th anniversary. Lt. Martin - gone but not forgotten.
Robin
September 11, 2021 | RI
The Martin family is especially in my thoughts and prayers as we approach the 20th anniversary of 9-11.
Eileen DeCarmine
September 04, 2021 | Teacher
Almost 20 years and I will never forget 9-11. I only work with Lt Martin one time but I remember what a good guy and Boss he was. RIP Brother. Chris M Retired FDNY
Chris M
June 24, 2021 | Patchogue, NY | Coworker