Continued
from Vincent's Home Page
He couldn't go to Coney Island without riding
the Cyclone roller coaster. But the Cyclone would not open until
6 p.m., Lieutenant Giammona was told. He smiled and jabbered about
his upcoming birthday (he would turn 40 in four days, on Sept.
11th). Soon, the Cyclone was creaking up into the sunshine, carrying
one passenger. His daughters cheered. He lived for moments like
this. Using fake buck teeth, an accent or his infamous Elvis costume,
he would transform household errands or roll call at the firehouse
into improv
comedy. At sporting events involving his two older daughters —
Francesca, 8 and Toni-Ann, 6 — his cheering was an aerobic workout.
At Ladder 5 on Houston Street, he taught rookies about high-rise
fires and downtown bars. They called him "Lieutenant Fun." The
morning of Lieutenant Giammona's 40th birthday, Theresa would
hear his voice for the last time: he said goodbye during a brief
phone call while hurrying to the World Trade Center. On Sept.
7, though, when the Cyclone started its descent, she heard him
shout with joy. Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December
4, 2001. GIAMMONA-Vincent F. Lieutenant, FDNY, with Ladder 5,
died in the line of duty on September 11, 2001, at the World Trade
Center disaster. Beloved husband of Theresa (nee Varvaro). Loving
father of Francesca, Toni-Ann, Nicolette and Daniella. Dear son
of Capt. Vincent (retired FDNY) and Dorothy Giammona. Loving brother
of Louise Cadullo, Linda Julian and Stephen. Dear son-inlaw of
Vincent and Frances Varvaro. Funeral Mass Wednesday, October 3,
2001, at Holy Name of Mary Church, Valley Stream, NY, at 1 PM.
A trust has been established for the benefit of his dependents.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Lt. Vincent F. Giammona Memorial
Trust, 2 Haven Ave, Suite 221, Port Washington, NY 11050, are
appreciated. Paid notice published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on September
30, 2001.
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