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By: Nick Carraway
Anthony Aquaro, the oldest retiree of the FDNY, passed away at the age of 103 on Friday, leaving behind a legacy defined by extraordinary bravery and unassuming humility. Known for his unwavering courage during pivotal moments of history, including the infamous 1960 mid-air plane collision over New York City, Aquaro’s life of service was celebrated by his family and community.
“He loved the fire department,” his son, Anthony Aquaro Jr., shared with The New York Post. “It was his second family.”
Aquaro, who succumbed to dementia in hospice care shortly before his 104th birthday, spent nearly three decades as a firefighter with Engine Company 269 in Park Slope, Brooklyn. His dedication to service extended back to World War II, where he served in the Navy with distinction.
A Heroic Response to Tragedy
Aquaro’s bravery shone during one of New York City’s darkest moments—the 1960 mid-air collision of a United Airlines flight with a TWA Super Constellation. The catastrophic accident, which claimed the lives of 128 passengers and crew as well as six people on the ground, unfolded just blocks from his firehouse.
“The plane that crashed in Brooklyn flew right over their firehouse, and then it crashed,” his son recounted.
Aquaro spent three harrowing days in rescue and recovery operations, searching through the wreckage and recovering remains. “He didn’t come home for three days,” his son said. “It affected him somewhat, but it was all part of that job. You saw a lot of things that regular citizens didn’t.”
Despite the emotional toll, Aquaro never sought recognition for his heroic efforts, embodying a steadfast commitment to duty throughout his career.
A Legacy of Service
Before joining the FDNY in 1953 at the age of 31, Aquaro served as a boatswain’s mate third-class in the Navy from 1942 to 1945. Stationed in the North Atlantic, his destroyer escort was involved in sinking German U-boats during World War II.
“We would watch all the war pictures together, and he would tell me about the war,” his son recalled, adding that his father’s stories reflected his remarkable composure and humility.
“He was the calmest person you ever met,” Aquaro Jr. said. “He didn’t like to have the spotlight shined on him. He just went about his business, and everyone loved him. He was the kindest man that you would ever meet.”
Honoring a Life Well Lived
Aquaro’s fellow firefighters celebrated his 100th birthday with a party and continued to mark each subsequent year. Even as many of his comrades passed away, the FDNY maintained close ties with him, recognizing his enduring connection to the department.
“The fire department is incredible, the things they did for my father, it’s hard to put into words,” his son said.
Aquaro is survived by his wife of 81 years, Gloria, with whom he shared an inseparable bond. Together, they raised two children and enjoyed the company of four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
“I can’t remember a day when I wasn’t with my father,” Aquaro Jr. said. “We did everything together. It’s still a shock, even though he was in hospice.”
At 72, Aquaro Jr. still turned to his father for advice. “He was very instrumental in me becoming the person I became,” he said. “He always told me to be kind to everyone.”
