Two sons of firefighters who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks are set to be promoted to FDNY lieutenants this week, honoring their father’s legacy of service and sacrifice. James Dowdell, whose father, Lt. Kevin Dowdell, was killed in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, will achieve the same rank his father held in the Fire Department of New York (FDNY).
Lt. Kevin Dowdell was a 21-year veteran of the department and had been serving with Rescue Co. 4 in Queens when he perished in the terrorist attacks that saw two hijacked planes crash into the World Trade Center towers.
James Dowdell, who was just 17 years old on the day of the attacks, recalls the uncertainty and the heartbreak of waiting for any news about his father’s whereabouts. He was in class at Xavier High School in Manhattan when the attacks occurred, and like millions of others, he was left in a state of confusion and fear.
“At first, we were hopeful that he’d come back,” James shared. “He had always been in dangerous situations as a firefighter, but he would always let us know that he was okay, no matter what was happening. So, when we hadn’t heard anything, we were scared but still hopeful.”
However, days turned into weeks, and hope began to fade when his father’s remains were never found. The devastation was overwhelming, but James, who now works at Rescue 2 in Brooklyn, pushed forward, drawing inspiration from the heroism and selflessness his father displayed throughout his career.
James’ promotion comes on his father’s birthday, which makes it even more meaningful. “To get promoted on his birthday is special,” James said. “It feels like a full circle moment, honoring his legacy in the way I know he would have been proud of.”
Although James is unsure of which firehouse he will be assigned to, the promotion is a powerful reminder of his father’s lasting impact on both his family and the fire department.
Alongside James, another firefighter, John Bergin, will also be promoted to lieutenant. John’s father, also named John Bergin, was a firefighter with Rescue 5 and tragically lost his life in the same attacks. John was just 9 years old at the time and remembers the moment his family learned of his father’s fate.
“I remember the day we were told that he wasn’t coming home,” John said. “My mom told me and my sisters that ‘Daddy went to work, and he’s not coming home.’ It was heartbreaking, but it was also the moment that I knew I had to follow in his footsteps.”
John Bergin, now 32, works at Ladder 157 in Brooklyn and has lived in Staten Island throughout his career. Despite the loss of his father at such a young age, John never wavered in his desire to become a firefighter, a dream that was instilled in him by his father’s passion for the job.
“From day one, I always knew I wanted to be a firefighter,” he said. “It’s something that’s been in my heart ever since I was little, and I’m so proud to achieve this rank, just like my father finally.”
Both of these young men are not just honoring their fathers by following in their footsteps but are carrying forward the values of bravery, duty, and love for their families and communities. Their promotions serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the men who sacrificed their lives on that fateful day in 2001.
These promotions are more than just career milestones; they represent the continued legacy of the firefighters who gave everything to protect their fellow citizens. It is a powerful reminder that, even in the face of tragedy, the sense of duty and commitment to serving others endures for generations.
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Archer Bannister is a journalist with 4 years of experience covering hard-hitting stories. Currently working with Mikeandjonpodcast, Archer specializes in delivering timely and in-depth updates on a variety of topics, including crime news, politics, and national issues affecting the USA. His expertise and dedication to delivering accurate, impactful news make him a trusted voice for audiences seeking to stay informed on critical topics.
