Joseph D. McKeon was born on September 18, 1942. He was appointed to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) on May 16, 1970, and served his first four years in the quarters of Engine Company 50. He was promoted to lieutenant in October of 1978, and served in this capacity for 11 years before being promoted to captain in December of 1989. After four years as captain in Engine Company 23, he was promoted to his final role as battalion chief.

Chief McKeon was cited three times for acts of bravery and awarded honors in 1990, 1992, 2003, and 2004.

He died on August 19, 2017, from an illness related to his response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.

Chief McKeon is survived by his wife, MaryAnn; his son, Christopher; daughters, Kerry and Patricia; and grandchildren, Elizabeth, Thomas, Daniel, Padric, and Anne.