I would like to introduce the NYCA community to my friend Carlos Lillo. Carlos was a Paramedic assigned to an Astoria FDNY EMS unit. On September 11th, 2001 Carlos' unit was assigned to World Trade Center incident. Carlos was worried because his new wife Cecilia worked for the Port Authority in Tower 1. Carlos did his job and treated many patients that morning but when he couldn't contact Cecilia he had to go in and find her. Cecilia was able to get out but couldn't contact Carlos on his cell phone. Carlos never made it out.
I went to Long Island City High School with Carlos. When he joined Astoria Volunteer Ambulance I trained him, years later in NYC*EMS I was his boss out of Elmhurst Hospital.
Carlos was one of the best Paramedics and gentleman I have ever known. He cared for people and gave 200%.
I have the above photo hanging at my desk and often look at it to remind me why I now do what I do. Carlos and hundreds of other emergency personnel gave their lives and continue to lose their lives so other could live.
On this anniversary I ask that you remember these heroes.
If you are out spotting at LGA please stop by the Carlos Lillo Park located at 76 Street between 20th & 21st Avenues.
http://www.carloslillo.com/
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