Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York

06/01/2026

A 5th Firefighter on FDNY engine companies is about one thing: saving lives.

More staffing means faster water on the fire, quicker searches, stronger rescues, and safer operations for both New Yorkers and our members.

New York City must invest in the staffing needed to protect the public. Restore the 5th Firefighter.

Supporters of a proposal for a fifth firefighter on FDNY engines will rally to get the Mamdani administration to reverse cuts in place since the Bloomberg era.

05/28/2026

Today, Fire Marshal Christopher Cuccaro was released from the hospital after being treated for injuries sustained at the Staten Island dry dock ship fire and explosion that injured several FDNY members last week. 

Fire Marshal Cuccaro is assigned to the K9 Unit and his K9 partner, Judge, had also been operating at the scene and was cleared of any injuries. Judge was able to be there for Chris’s hospital walkout.

The UFA is proud of Fire Marshal Cuccaro and Judge for their bravery in the line of duty and for their role in the rescue efforts at this dangerous and rapidly evolving incident.

Every day, our members face dangers that cannot always be foreseen. Their courage, commitment, and willingness to put themselves in harm’s way can never be overstated.

We will continue to support Chris and his family as he continues his recovery.

05/28/2026

Today marks 9 years since we lost legendary Firefighter Raymond J. Pfeifer of Engine 40, known to so many as “The Caveman.”

Ray was diagnosed in 2009 with renal carcinoma that spread to his bones, lungs, and brain as a result of his toxic exposure during the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero. Even while battling his own illness, Ray never stopped fighting for others.

He became one of the strongest and most recognizable voices for 9/11 first responders, tirelessly advocating for the World Trade Center Health Program, the Zadroga Act, and the continued care of those suffering from WTC-related illnesses. Ray made countless trips to Washington, D.C. and Albany, meeting with lawmakers, standing with fellow members, and demanding that our heroes never be forgotten.

Ray helped give voice to the silent suffering of thousands, and his phrase became a powerful reminder that the losses from 9/11 did not end that day.

Ray and his brother Joe also donated their 1946 fire engine, which has carried many of our fallen members to their final resting place. In his honor, the Ray Pfeifer Foundation continues his mission by supporting firefighters battling 9/11-related illnesses and helping their families through the fight.

Ray is survived by his wife Caryn, his daughter Taylor, and his son Terence, who continues the family’s FDNY legacy at Engine 79.

Nine years later, Ray’s courage, advocacy, and spirit continue to inspire this Department and every member who carries on the fight.

We will NEVER forget.

05/28/2026

The UFA regretfully announces the passing of retired Lieutenant James F. Hartnett, Ladder 19, which occurred on August 4, 2025.

Lieutenant Hartnett was appointed to the FDNY on September 5, 1981, and served the Department for nearly 30 years until his retirement on July 5, 2011.

He bravely served the people of New York City throughout his career and answered the call during the rescue and recovery efforts at Manhattan Box 5-5-8087, the World Trade Center.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the honor of serving alongside him.

Funeral services were held in August of 2025. May he rest in eternal peace.

05/26/2026

It is with deep regret that the UFA joins the members of Engine 286 and Ladder 135, “The Myrtle Turtles,” in mourning the untimely passing of Active Duty Firefighter Karan P. Thadhani.

Firefighter Thadhani was a beloved member of Ladder 135 who dedicated his life to serving others. Before joining the FDNY as a Firefighter, he served as a Paramedic with FDNY EMS, continuing a career built on helping New Yorkers in their moments of need.

He will be remembered by his brothers and sisters for the smile, positivity, and energy he brought to the firehouse and to the job every day.

The UFA extends our deepest condolences to Firefighter Thadhani’s family, loved ones, and the members of Engine 286/Ladder 135. Please keep them all in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

For the UFA and the FDNY family, that remembrance is deeply personal. We honor all those we have lost, including Firefighter Christian P. Engeldrum, Lieutenant Christopher J. Raguso, Fire Marshal Christopher T. Zanetis, and Firefighter Christopher Slutman — FDNY members who served this city and gave their lives while serving our nation.

Today is not about celebration. It is about remembrance, gratitude, and honoring those who never made it home.
May we never forget their courage, their sacrifice, their families, and the legacy they leave behind.

05/23/2026

On Friday afternoon, FDNY members responded to a fire and explosion at a Staten Island shipyard on Richmond Terrace in Mariners Harbor, where workers were reported trapped inside a metal structure near the docks.

Our members arrived within minutes and went to work under extremely dangerous conditions — heavy smoke, limited visibility, confined spaces, and the threat of further explosions. While firefighters were conducting search-and-rescue operations, another explosion tore through the scene.

One civilian tragically lost their life, and dozens of first responders were injured, including 34 FDNY members. A Fire Marshal Operating at the scene sustained major injury but is now poised to recover and one Firefighter also sustained serious injury but will also recover.

More than 200 first responders from roughly 70 fire and EMS units operated at this complex and rapidly evolving emergency. Despite the danger, our members continued doing what they are sworn to do: push forward, search, rescue, and protect life.

The UFA is keeping our injured members, their families, and all those impacted in our thoughts. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the civilian who lost their life, and we pray for the full recovery of every member injured in the line of duty.

05/22/2026

Yesterday, the UFA joined the UFOA, FDNY Chiefs, and FDNY VFW Post 12033 at the NYC Fire Academy for a Memorial Day remembrance and wreath laying ceremony.

Together, we honored the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Memorial Day is a solemn reminder that freedom comes at a cost, and we will never forget those who gave everything.

The UFA remains proud to stand with our FDNY family in remembering their service, their sacrifice, and their legacy.

05/16/2026

Five years ago today, we lost Firefighter Thomas G. Oelkers of Ladder 44 to a WTC-related illness.

Firefighter Oelkers answered the call in the aftermath of September 11th, dedicating himself to the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center. He served the FDNY with pride and was a respected member of the Department.

Thomas also played an important role in rebuilding the FDNY Football Team, helping lead them to a Public Safety National Championship victory.

Today, we remember his service, strength, and legacy. Our thoughts remain with his family, friends, and his brothers and sisters in the Department.

Never Forgotten.

05/15/2026

The UFA regretfully announces the WTC-related passing of retired Firefighter Michael J. Reutter, Ladder 175, which occurred on June 20, 2025.

Firefighter Reutter was appointed on July 6, 1983, and served the Department for 21 years until his retirement on January 31, 2005. We extend our sincere gratitude to Firefighter Michael Reutter for his decades of dedicated service to the Department, and for his unwavering commitment during the rescue and recovery at Ground Zero. His service and sacrifice will not be forgotten. Funeral services were held in June.