HYDE PARK – Paul Tegtmeier was working at his dream job with the FDNY on September 11, 2001, when he gave his life while trying to save others at the World Trade Center. Tegtmeier, who was 41 when he died, had been assigned to FDNY Engine 4 but was detailed to Engine 26 in the garment district at the start of his shift on that dark day. He was carrying the “irons” including an axe and a Halligan tool used for forcible entry, as part of his assignment when he perished.
He was the only one of the 343 firefighters who died that day who lived in Hyde Park, where he also volunteered with the Roosevelt Fire Department.
After his death, the community came together and created the Paul Tegtmeier Memorial Park at Hackett Hill Park to honor his sacrifice.
Each year on September 11, the Roosevelt Fire Department members are joined by neighboring departments, elected officials, friends, family, and community members to pay their respects to Tegtmeier.
Dutchess County Legislator and former Roosevelt Fire Chief Lew Darrow, who serves on the memorial committee, addressed the more than 100 people gathered on Friday evening in Hyde Park. Reinforcing a promise made more than two decades ago, Darrow said: “We will never forget the families, friends, first responders, and communities whose lives were forever changed that day.” Legislator Darrow continued, saying, “As long as we continue to gather here, as long as we continue to tell their stories, and as long as the next generation understands why this memorial stands, that promise will continue.”
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