On September 11, 2001, the highest-ranking uniformed officer in the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) was Chief of Department Peter Ganci. He tragically died while coordinating rescue efforts at the World Trade Center. The Fire Commissioner, the department's top civilian leader appointed by the mayor, was Thomas Von Essen.
While Peter Ganci held the top operational command, many other dedicated chiefs played crucial roles in the immediate response. Among them was Chief Joseph Pfeifer, an FDNY chief whose immediate actions became a defining moment of the day.
Chief Joseph Pfeifer's Immediate Response
Chief Joseph Pfeifer of the FDNY was already on a routine call in lower Manhattan on the morning of September 11, 2001. As the day unfolded, he witnessed firsthand the unfolding tragedy. Pfeifer heard the distinct, loud roar of an airplane overhead and looked up to see the horrifying sight of hijacked Flight 11 crashing directly into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Without hesitation, he immediately sprang into action, becoming the very first chief to arrive at the World Trade Center site, quickly establishing the initial command post and coordinating the early stages of the immense rescue and evacuation efforts.
His rapid response and leadership were critical in the chaotic moments following the first impact, setting up the framework for the FDNY's heroic, albeit ultimately devastating, operation.
Key FDNY Leadership on 9/11
The FDNY's command structure faced an unprecedented challenge on 9/11, responding to multiple collapsing towers with thousands of civilians trapped. The department's leadership demonstrated extraordinary courage and dedication.
Here are some of the key figures in the FDNY's leadership on that fateful day:
| Role | Name | Significance on 9/11 |
|---|---|---|
| Chief of Department | Peter Ganci | Highest-ranking uniformed officer; killed in the line of duty at the WTC. |
| Fire Commissioner | Thomas Von Essen | Head of the entire department; provided crucial leadership from outside the immediate collapse zone. |
| First Chief on Scene | Joseph Pfeifer | An active FDNY chief who was the first to arrive at the World Trade Center and establish command. |
The events of 9/11 called for unprecedented bravery and leadership from every level of the FDNY. Chiefs like Peter Ganci and Joseph Pfeifer exemplify the profound dedication and sacrifice of the department on that day.
For more information on the FDNY's response and the heroes of 9/11, you can visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
