While many know Steve Buscemi as an acclaimed actor from films like Fargo, Reservoir Dogs, and the TV series Boardwalk Empire, fewer are aware of his quiet heroism in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Before his rise to fame in Hollywood, Buscemi served as a New York City firefighter with Engine Company 55 in Manhattan’s Little Italy from 1980 to 1984. That experience would come full circle in one of the nation’s darkest hours.
The day after the World Trade Center towers collapsed, Buscemi returned—unannounced and without fanfare—to his former firehouse. Donning his gear, he worked 12-hour shifts alongside fellow firefighters, assisting in the search and rescue operations at Ground Zero. He did this without seeking media attention or public recognition. In fact, his involvement was largely unknown for years because he refused interviews and asked not to be photographed while helping.
In a 2021 essay for TIME marking the 20th anniversary of the attacks, Buscemi reflected on his time at Ground Zero. He spoke about the physical and emotional toll the work took, admitting that years later he would come to realize he had been suffering from post-traumatic stress. His reflections offered a rare and deeply personal account of what it was like to be on the front lines—not as a celebrity, but as a former firefighter determined to help.
Buscemi’s connection to 9/11 didn’t end with the rescue efforts. He has been a steadfast advocate for first responders ever since. He narrated the documentary Dust to Dust: The Health Effects of 9/11, which explores the long-term health impacts suffered by emergency workers exposed to the toxic conditions at Ground Zero. He is also actively involved with Friends of Firefighters, a nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health services to firefighters and their families.
His ongoing commitment has made him not just a former firefighter or a Hollywood star, but a symbol of humility, service, and solidarity. Steve Buscemi’s choice to return to his roots and serve in silence speaks volumes. It’s a powerful reminder that in times of crisis, true character is revealed not by words, but by actions.
Cited sources
https://time.com/6095709/steve-buscemi-9-11-firefighter/
https://www.the-independent.com/arts-entertainment/films/news/steve-buscemi-9-11-firefighter-twin-towers-b2409173.html
https://allthatsinteresting.com/steve-buscemi-firefighter?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.eonline.com/news/1302034/steve-buscemi-recalls-volunteering-at-ground-zero-on-9-11-and-the-ptsd-that-followed?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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