The son of a respected FDNY firefighter, who tragically died on 9/11 after attempting to rescue others, was among those promoted on Tuesday. Frederick J. Disease, now Captain of Queen’s Rescue 4, is stepping into a role that mirrors the rank his father held before his passing nearly 24 years ago.
“I’m a legacy,” the 46-year-old shared after receiving his new title. “My dad was Junior Captain Frederick J. Ile, and I served in Ladder Company 2 during 9/11. I carry his name.”
His father, who was just 49 at the time, rushed into the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, having already established a reputation as a hero with FDNY.
In 1999, Frederick J. Il Jr. earned admiration for saving a man who had fallen onto subway tracks by shutting off the power in a daring act of bravery.
Not only did he rescue that man, but he also formed a lasting friendship with him. After learning to walk on prosthetic legs, Il Jr. supported his son’s education at St. Raymond High School, which both he and Colonel Irist attended.
Two years later, Il Jr. entered the North Tower to help those trapped on the 17th floor, just before it collapsed.
“When it was time to evacuate, he insisted, ‘Let me rescue everyone first,’” his obituary noted.
Now, as a captain, Frederick aims to embody the same heroism and responsibility exemplified by his father.
“I want to step into this role to train my team and tackle fire and emergency situations head-on,” he remarked. “It’s a significant responsibility.”
The promotion ceremony at Queens College featured 109 members being elevated within FDNY, including one staff chief, two deputies, 12 battalion commanders, and several others.
FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker highlighted the commitment required in their roles, emphasizing the importance of trust and readiness to respond at any time.
Tucker described the essence of FDNY leadership as providing stability and protection, stating that it’s crucial to guide and support the team through actions rather than rank.
Detailing a like-minded journey, Patrick Hayden, son of a 9/11 first responder, also achieved a captaincy at the ceremony.
His father, Peter Hayden, a former Deputy Fire Chief, was among the crowd of about 500 attendees cheering for the new leaders.
“I feel honored to become a captain,” Patrick said. “I had a wonderful captain who mentored me, and I want to make my father proud today.”
He added, “With each promotion comes the challenge of living up to expectations. This role isn’t easy; you must follow in the footsteps of those who paved the way.”
Peter Hayden had previously gained attention for challenging Mayor Bloomberg’s policies concerning the NYPD’s authority in situations involving suspected terrorism just after September 11.
Two decades later, he expressed immense pride in seeing his sons carry on the family legacy within the fire department.
“It really means a lot to us,” he reflected. “This day is one I will forever cherish as a father. My eldest son was promoted to chief of the battalion in December, which adds to our family’s honor.”
