Michael D’Auria was a very warm and loving young man who had a purpose in life. It was somewhat of a struggle getting there but he knew what his goal was and he succeeded. His entire life he wanted to be a fireman. He was sworn into the department on May 2‚ 2001 after receiving 100 percent on both the written and physical tests. He was so proud to be a part of the FDNY.
Mike was a chef at various restaurants in Manhattan‚ Brooklyn‚ and Staten Island. When he graduated from high school‚ he went to culinary school since he had been too young at that time to take the fire department test.
Michael loved getting tattoos‚ but they each had a very special meaning to him‚ e.g. St. Michael the Archangel on his right shoulder. He felt he was his protector. Mike began painting last year. Something he never tried before‚ but when he did he had such a talent that people were just amazed seeing his paintings.
Most of all‚ Michael was a caring‚ giving person. He literally would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. Michael was a hero to many people over the years; now he’s a HERO to all.
As I sit here and write‚ I cry because my heart aches but I know you are happy now‚ Michael. You knew life here was only a small part of a very big picture. Michael made a statement to his sister‚ Christina‚ several months before September 11: ‘I know when I die it’s going to be in a big way and it’s going to change the world.’ How right you were my son.
Always and forever in our hearts.
Mom
My daughter had the privledge of wearing your son’s name and picture as she sang the national anthem with the Bagder State Girl Choir today. We attended the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Green Bay, WI this morning. She was proud to wear his picture. She is not old enough to have been alive when 9/11 happened but she has learned and seen on tv what happened that horrible day. I would like to share with you the video of them singing as well as a picture of her proudly wearing his picture. You may contact me by email or find me on Facebook if you wish.
– Kimberly De La CruzI am truly sorry for your loss. Michael will always be considered a hero to us.
Kimberly
I climbed in memory of Michael at the 9/11 Stair Climb at Lambeau Field. As a fellow firefighter I am honored to have had the chance to represent and climb with him. He was a hero and his memory will live on, we will never forget. Rest easy brother we will take it from here.
– Kari JoasI was honored to wear Michael’s pic/badge on September 16,2017 at Lambeau field in Green Bay,WI. I want you to know that he will NEVER be forgotten and he will be in my daily prayers.As my husband and our son and I did the climb it gave me a more understanding of the unconditional sacrifice they gave on 9/11. it was the ultimate sacrifice. I am 57 years old and work at a Michigan Public school in Food service. Please know that Michael will forever be remembered in prayer. He is our forever HERO!
– Margaret BrayYesterday, I had Michael on my race bib at the 2019 Melbourne Fire Fighter Stair Climb in Australia. I am honored to ensure that Michael is still being remembered today and across the other side of the world. Thank you for sharing a little about him, it certainly hits home a bit reading it.
– Jason GovanI have the privilege of participating in a 9/11 stair climb to honor your son and all the firefighters that lost their lives on that horrible day. I wanted you to know that I will wear his picture on my shirt and will do my best to honor his memory. I am so sorry for your loss.
– Rita MetschYou actually met my Mother and Father (Dale and Judy) at the 9/11 Memorial several years ago on their visit to New York, and all they could talk about was you, and your son. They gave me your son’s prayer card, which I’ve had for almost 15 years now, and still carry it with me every September 11th so as I don’t forget your son’s heroism, and those of his firefighter brothers.
– Kevin CollierI got the privilege of wearing your sons picture on a 9/11 walk today. I am so sorry about what happened to your family. I am so proud to be walking with your son from now on.❤️
– Hannah AlbersHi Nancy. I had met you in NY I believe at the 9/11 museum (I think) I told you that my son was in the process of becoming a FF which he is now a Captain. You gave me a picture of Michael and told me his story, I told you I would always carry your sons picture in my wallet. Today on the 20 year anniversary I posted the picture of Michael and told the story. I have kept my promise to you. You will forever be in my thoughts!!!
– Heidi HarrisHeidi Harris
I had the honor of walking in Michael’s memory on the 20th anniversary in St. Louis 21-mile March to the Arch. #NeverForget
– Anne M ButlerI saw his plaque at the firehouse and googled Michael’s name and read your post and was touched by what Michael stated to his sister may God rest your soul and may you Michael D. D’Auria always have light.
– Lino GuglilmoLino Guglielmo.
Today I wore Michael D’Auria’s Picture today at the 2022 stair climb in Green Bay, I am honored to wear this. Never Forget
– Mark Stockton