Thomas Patrick Phelan

So sorry to hear of Thomas's passing, he was a good guy, good times with him in St. Michaels. and Also Hi Kenny, we will see Thomas again soon.

So sorry for the loss of your family member!! Sounds like a true hero who thought unselfishly of others. Please accept my condolences at this difficult time.

Thank You From All Of Us

O Captain! My Captain!

Thomas Patrick Phelan was my classmate in grammar school (St. Michael) and high school (Bishop Ford). He was my neighbor in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, my bowling partner (8th grade champions!-- but don't remind Sr. Anne), and he was my friend. My heart is broken today.

Thomas came from a true Irish/American family. In fact, whenever I think of Irish, and of Brooklyn, I think of Phelan. Mr. and Mrs. Phelan made certain that their children became something--and they did. They are your firefighters, police officers, nurses, and teachers. They are all good. Anybody in Sunset Park or anywhere else will attest to what I am saying. Anybody. Thomas' life was so valuable, and he was truly loved. I know Mrs. Phelan must be aching inside. Thomas was special to her. Stay close to her.

I always think about Thomas. He is a mythical figure to me: a seafaring firefighter. A few years ago, I had a dream that he piloted me by Liberty Island, where we visited as kids, a long time ago. I once joked with his father (Rest in Peace) that even though he loved to savor life, he could have been a priest. When he was an altar boy at St. Michael, he took that role seriously, and at times would have to leave class abruptly to participate in a serious mass or service of some kind because the priests knew he would do the best job of all the altar boys. One time he returned laughing while he flashed a $5 bill in front of us--a tip he had earned for his service. I'm sitting in math class, and he's out making money.

Here's what I know: today is the saddest day ever. I will never forget Thomas as long as I live. He is my link to childhood, to school, to Brooklyn, to laughter, and to life and love. This guy was not afraid of anything: I'm telling you, and he was mischievous, without being bad. When you saw him smile, you knew something was up, and you wanted to be involved. I always felt safe around Thomas too. He didn't run from anything.

My message to Mrs. Phelan, the brothers and sisters, and Marie:

Thomas was good. Thomas was loved. Thomas was hardworking. Thomas was kind. Thomas did everything his God and his family could expect from Thomas. Thomas lived life. Thomas was a friend. Thomas is free, and Thomas is in heaven. We should all try to live life like a hero: like Thomas Patrick Phelan. O Captain! My Captain!

I am so sorry for your loss and my heart is aching. One day maybe I can tell you about how Thomas inspired me, and some of the things he helped me with, without his knowledge of the fact. I can prove to you that he will always be alive.

I wish I could be there to celebrate Thomas' life. I promise to keep his life and story alive. My daughters know all about him and they smile when I talk about Thomas.

My aunt, Sr. Rozanne Daly, had just recently given me Thomas' phone number and told me that he was not feeling well. I thought I had more time to contact him and did not realize how seriously ill he had fallen. I wish I had another chance to say goodbye.



Rest in Peace Thomas,

Kenneth, Judith, Karina, and Averie Flaherty


[email protected]
860.866.6454

You were part of the BOATLIFT on 9/11... one of the great unknown stories of that day. A light of courage and hope surrounded by darkness!

Oh Sailor
pick up all your defeats
like pebbles beneath your feet
and fling them all into the sea!

Sniff the air
look how the birds fly
Adjust your ship's mast
and sail away
in search of newer victories!
Avijeet Das

You are a true NYC and American Hero. May God Bless you.

Thank you for you for being you and for your faithful, courageous service. Please know my heart and thoughts are with your family.

Thank you for being you and your faithful, brave service. My thoughts and heart are with your family.