Please remember Gary P. Geidel

Eight years ago today, the nation was rocked to its core. At the hands of hateful cowards. At the cost of nearly 3,000 hearts, minds and bodies. 2,920 days have passed, and so easy it is for many of us to move on. To focus on the patriotic spirit that rose out of that grim, ill-fated September day… to harness our own hatred in the name of the U.S. of A. and aim it at the sources of evil.

But it has not been easy for those who were left in the wake of the tragedy, left to deal with a senseless loss of someone they loved, someone who loved them. Time might heal, but healing is hard to do when the loss always feels like it just took place yesterday. And time doesn’t bring back any one’s father, mother, sister, brother, husband, wife or best friend.

As part of Project 2996, I would like to shine a light on one man of whom, until yesterday, I had never heard…but now after reading about him and hearing the memories of those he left behind, I understand how important it is that he is remembered. That he is honored. Now, today. Eight years later. And beyond.

His name is Gary P. Geidel, and he was a fireman for New York City Fire Department. He was one of 10 in his company who died in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. He was 44.

Firefighting was in his blood. His father had walked before him; one of his brothers walked beside. All three Geidels shared a rescue company, Rescue Co. 1, which dates back to 1915 as the first rescue company to be established in the United States. Unfortunately, Gary was no stranger to responding to terror attacks; when the Twin Towers were bombed in 1993, Gary and his company were there…saving lives and helping others.

His retirement from public service was a mere 20 days away when the calendar turned to September 11 in 2001. He awoke that morning, ruefully told his wife of almost 11 years that he put in for overtime and headed to the firehouse. But not before returning to give the love of his life another kiss and hug. His last kiss and hug.

Gary was a 6 ft. 2 romantic, avid birdwatcher, Eagle Boy Scout, former Marine and a member of neighborhood softball and football team. He could fix parachutes, sew costumes, whittle gifts for loved ones and make toys for his daughter, Tillie.

I’m glad I’ve come to know Gary P. Geidel, who some called “Mule Bone.”

Many called him a friend.

Three called him a son.

Three called him a brother.

Some called him an uncle.

One called him a husband, a best friend, a soul mate.

One called him Dad.

And I know am not alone when I call him a hero.

Please remember Gary P. Geidel.

(B&W photo originally posted by jessica_foley62; other photos from Gary’s sites.)

Sources:

http://www.9-11heroes.us/v/Gary_Geidel.php

http://www.9-11heroes.us/v/Gary_Geidel.php

http://www.silive.com/september11/lr/index.ssf?/september11/lr/geidel.html