Joe loved getting family, friends, and neighbors together at his house for an outdoor barbecue where he would exchange jokes and stories, share his passion for music, especially the Grateful Dead, recount the heroic exploits of our greatest generation, talk about his favorite Honeymooner episodes or his favorite movies such as Saving Private Ryan and Lonesome Dove.
He would pick up the basketball and initiate games of 21 in the driveway talking about Larry Bird. The last time Joe had the opportunity to regale in the day like this was his daughter Isabel’s first birthday in late August 2001.
It is in this spirit that The Maverick Foundation carries the spirit of Joe on this day dedicated to him and all who made the ultimate sacrifice.
It is a fun-filled day for kids with rides, games, pony rides, petting zoo, and face painting, yet the day begins as it always does with a respectful and solemn remembrance of September 11th with an outstanding FDNY color guard with members who knew Joe for years and members who are also new to the department. Retired FF Zeke Quin carries the Memorial 343 Helmet with white gloves while flanked by FDNY Chiefs Joe Jim Boylan and Kevin Woods who are accompanied by Lt. Steve Cunningham, Firefighters Andrew Francis and Charles Bernardi, and Probationary Firefighter Joseph Falcone with Ladder 101. This is followed by Jerry Sculley’s outstanding rendition of “God Bless America”.
We were especially privileged this year to have former FDNY Commissioner Sal Cassano provide opening remarks for the audience.
Some clouds and occasional showers could not dampen the positive atmosphere under the pavilion with live music provided for the second consecutive year by The Fine Line.
Special thanks to Joe Byrne of Turner for donating his $1,500 raffle prize to The Maverick Foundation! By the way, the winning number was 2468.
Special thanks to Joseph Falcone of Ladder 101 for getting there early and helping with set-up!
Congratulations to FDNY Chief Ed Kearon on his retirement after 34½ years of outstanding service to NYC!
I would like to thank everyone for their outstanding support each and every year and I look forward to seeing everyone back next year for the 15th Annual!
