Sweeney, Brian

Brian Sweeney, Res.1 Firefighter Fire Department City of New York New York Age: 29 Year of Death: 2001 Firefighter‚ Rescue 1Age 29Born: November 10‚ 1971 Dates of Service: July 9‚1995 – September 11‚ 2001Parents: Edward and Mary Ann Sweeney Brian is remembered as a hardworking‚ enthusiastic firefighter who wanted to be the very best he could be. He entered the New York City Fire Department on July 9‚ 1995. His first assignment after ‘probie’ school was Engine 263 in Queens‚ the first in a three-year‚ three-house rotation‚ followed by Ladder 8 Manhattan‚ and Engine 214 in Brooklyn. He was then chosen to work in newly formed Squad 288 by then Lt.‚ now Captain Vinny Ungaro‚ who had recognized Brian’s skills and enthusiasm from previous assignments. During Brian’s three years with the Squad‚ he continued to improve his firefighting techniques and enhance his rescue training skills. He took extra training classes on his own personal time and was able to teach training courses in several firefighting disciplines. In addition to all of this‚ Brian found the time to prepare intensely for the upcoming lieutenant’s exam scheduled for October 2001. Brian’s main goal as a firefighter was realized in late July 2001‚ when he was assigned to the elite Rescue One in Manhattan. It was another dream come true for Brian. Brian loved outdoor activities. Snowboarding was probably his favorite. Skiing‚ mountain biking‚ climbing‚ scuba diving and rafting were also interests he shared with his many friends. Traveling to new places always excited him. Just mention a trip and he’d be packing his bag. His parents Ed‚ retired Captain‚ FDNY‚ and Mary Ann‚ his sister Lynn and brother Matt‚ and the special person in his life‚ his girlfriend Melissa‚ were all important to him. Brian liked to have a good time and enjoyed being around people‚ especially family and friends. He looked forward to‚ and helped organize‚ firehouse dinner dances and picnics. He was always enthusiastic about neighborhood block parties and backyard barbeques. His big blue eyes and crooked smile will always be remembered to those who knew and loved him. – Mary Ann Sweeney