New York

Family Member of FDNY Firefighter Who Died in 9/11 Has Mission to Keep Brother's Legacy Afloat

What to Know

  • Gerard Chipura's younger brother John died on September 11 as he rushed to save others
  • Chipura now has a mission to get his brother's name on the side of a new Staten Island ferry to remember his legacy
  • More than 8,000 New Yorkers have agreed to sign petitions of support for Gerard’s mission

The younger brother of an FDNY firefighter who died on September 11 as he rushed to save others has a mission to keep his older brother’s legacy afloat.

Gerard Chipura is now working with family and friends to remember his brother, John, by having his name on the side of a new Staten Island Ferry.

“After he passed on 9/11 it became my mission to bring his story out and let people know what a great guy he was," Chipura said.

More than 8,000 New Yorkers have agreed to sign petitions of support for Gerard’s mission.

John Chipura started his life of service at age 12 as a Boy Scout. He then served as a Marine, surviving the Beirut barracks bombing. He then became an NYPD officer before joining the FDNY as a firefighter.

Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro told NBC 4 New York that the tribute would be well-deserved.

“John Chipura bravely served his borough, city and country; and gave his life on September 11th trying to save others,” Nigro said.

Gerard said having his brother’s name on the side of a ferry would be a great tribute for his life of service to continue on.

“Watching him from a younger brother I always wanted to truly be like he was because he was such a good and caring and kind person," he said.

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