FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro, who had Wanted to Stay On, Announces Retirement

By Yehudit Garmaise

FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro, who was appointed by former Mayor Bill de Blasio in 2014, had recently said that he wanted to stay at the helm of the FDNY when Mayor Eric Adams took office, however, reports have come in the past weeks that the mayor has appointed Terryl Brown, a woman who has served as the fire department’s chief legal counsel and deputy commissioner for legal affairs for the last seven years, to take over the top spot in the Fire Department.

Today, Commissioner Nigro, who has served as a firefighter since 1969, when he was first assigned to Engine Company 21 in Manhattan, not only quickly rose through the ranks of the FDNY, but he is one of only six FDNY members to have served in every rank in the department, announced that he will retire on Feb. 16.

After fighting fires in many companies citywide, in 1988, Nigro ranked as battalion chief, and served in several administrative positions at headquarters, including the chief of personnel and the chief of the Bureau of Health Services, where he oversaw the medical care and treatment of FDNY members, which he continued to do throughout the COVID pandemic.

Adams praised Nigro as a “tireless champion for New Yorkers, and a friend who I’ve leaned on time and again.

“From overseeing the heroic 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts to leading the FDNY’s unwavering response during the pandemic, Dan has worked tirelessly to protect all New Yorkers,” the mayor said in a statement. “New Yorkers, whether they know it or not, are all safer because of the work he’s done and owe him their thanks.

“Dan defines public service and will be deeply missed by me and the entire department.”

Commissioner Nigro is not only leaving graciously, but full of praise for thousands of brave men and women who served under him.

“On days of triumphant rescues and during times of unimaginable loss, the members of the FDNY: our firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, fire marshals, fire inspectors and civilian staff have always answered the call,” Nigro said in a statement. “They are extraordinary people and are deeply committed to protecting the lives and property of all New Yorkers. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as their Fire Commissioner.

“Since the day I raised my right hand 53 years ago and followed my father into the greatest fire department in the world, I have been blessed, privileged and truly honored to serve the people of our great city.”

Photo by: Flickr