Michael Ragusa – The Last Firefighter Identified
Michael Ragusa was just 29 years old—a young man with dreams, hopes, and a deep sense of duty. As one of the youngest members of the FDNY, assigned to Engine Company 279 in Brooklyn, Michael was known for his unwavering dedication and infectious smile. He had chosen a life of service, always ready to help others, always willing to put himself second for the sake of those in need.
On the night of September 10, 2001, Michael was working an overnight tour. He could not have known that the next morning would bring one of the darkest days in American history. When the call came in about the attack on the World Trade Center, Michael responded without hesitation, joining hundreds of his fellow firefighters racing toward the chaos. He knew the risks, but bravery was in his blood—he was determined to do whatever he could to save lives.
Arriving at the scene, Michael faced a landscape of devastation: smoke, fire, and confusion. Yet he pressed forward, guided by the courage and training that defined the FDNY. In those final moments, Michael was not thinking of himself. He was thinking of the people trapped inside, of his brothers and sisters in uniform, of the city he loved.
Michael never returned home. For years, his family, friends, and fellow firefighters held onto hope, searching for closure. The process of identifying victims from that terrible day was long and agonizing. Each new name brought both heartbreak and relief—a small measure of comfort in knowing that their loved one had finally been found.
It was only after many years that Michael Ragusa was officially identified, becoming the last of the 343 firefighters lost on September 11th to be named. His story stands as a testament to the enduring pain and profound love that marked the aftermath of 9/11. Michael’s legacy is not just one of sacrifice, but of hope—hope that even in the face of unimaginable tragedy, the human spirit endures.
To those who knew him, Michael was more than a firefighter. He was a beloved son, a loyal friend, a gentle soul who brought light to every room he entered. His laughter, his kindness, and his courage continue to inspire all who hear his story.
Today, as we remember Michael Ragusa, we honor all those who gave everything on that day. Michael’s name is etched not only in memorials, but in the hearts of a grateful city and nation. His sacrifice reminds us that heroes are not defined by their final moments, but by the lives they touched and the love they left behind.
Michael Ragusa will never be forgotten. He is the last to be identified, but his memory lives on—forever a symbol of selflessness, bravery, and the unbreakable bond of the FDNY family.
