Sept. 11 has become not only a day to remember the great men and women killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks but to also honor them in a way that makes this country and the communities they called home a better place.
That's why the is hosting another blood drive this Sunday, two days before the 11th anniversary of 9/11, in memory of its Ex-Chief Robert J. DeAngelis.
DeAngelis' nickname was "Little Giant" because his strength and character exceeded his 5-foot-5 frame. He lived a life dedicated to his family, his church (St. Thomas the Apostle in West Hempstead) and his community, serving as commissioner for the West Hempstead fire district and an ex-chief for the Lakeview Fire Department.
He died at the age of 47 a hero, using his life-saving skills to escort numerous colleagues out of Tower One, where he worked on the 91st floor in the offices of Washington Group International, when the World Trade Center was attacked. But he never made it out. He was last seen fielding telephone calls from worried family members of employees from within the World Trade Center, according to news reports.
"Bobby perished on 9/11 helping others," Lakeview Fire Chief Heather Senti told Patch, urging others to "honor his memory and legacy, and continue his service by donating a pint to save a life."
The 2nd Annual Ex-Chief Robert J. DeAngelis, Jr. Memorial Blood Drive will take place Sunday, Sept. 9, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Lakeview fire house located on Woodfield Road.
