·Captain William “Billy” Burke had spent more than 20 years as a firefighter. On September 11, 2001, his final order helped others get out alive.
Burke was a native New Yorker who lived in Manhattan. Before becoming captain of FDNY Engine Company 21, he spent 25 summers working as a lifeguard on Long Island and helped train younger firefighters as an instructor at the Fire Academy.
Then came the morning of 9/11.
Inside the North Tower, conditions were rapidly worsening. Captain Burke and his firefighters were working to help people escape.
At one point, Burke reportedly ordered his own unit to get out.
But he stayed behind.
According to accounts of his final actions, Burke remained near the 27th floor to assist trapped civilians while other firefighters made their way out.
He was 46 years old.
Captain William Francis Burke Jr. never returned home.
He had spent decades protecting strangers, first as a lifeguard and then as a firefighter.
On the morning of September 11, when he had the authority to lead his men toward safety, he reportedly sent them out.
And stayed behind to help others.
Today, his name remains among those lost at the World Trade Center.
A white rose was placed there on what would have been his 70th birthday.
Story based on historical records. This post is for educational purposes.

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