Firefighter Thomas William Anderson Jr. of Syosset, New York, passed away on the morning of July 7, 2023. He passed as a result of a nine-year battle with cancer, which was inflicted as a result of his selfless service as a 9/11 first responder.

Thomas, known as Tom, was born to Thomas Sr. and Marilyn Anderson, on November 21, 1961, in Manhattan, New York. He and his sister, Arlene, were raised by their parents in College Point, New York. Thomas Sr. was a lieutenant with the FDNY, inspiring Tom Jr.’s passion for the FDNY.

Tom joined the fire department at age 27 on July 5, 1988. He was assigned to Ladder 22 in Manhattan. He received two Unit Citations while in Ladder 22 and a Class 3 Medal, for which he was awarded the Pulaski Medal, an annual award given to a member of the FDNY who upheld the department’s tradition for bravery, valor, and service. He eventually transferred to Ladder 140 in Ridgewood, Queens, and then to Squad 270. It was with Squad 270 that he, alongside fellow firefighters and other first responders, heroically responded to the search and cleanup efforts at Ground Zero on 9/11 and throughout the grim days that followed. He later worked at Ladder 162 in Queens Village until the end of his firefighting career. Tom lived his life passionate about the work he did as a firefighter, approaching every element with selflessness and bravery. His remarkable achievements have filled his family’s hearts with immense pride.

Tom was always an energetic and active person. He loved to work out and lift weights. He encouraged and inspired this passion in his three children, nephews, and niece, and it is now part of his family legacy. He also had a passion for biking and was known for going on long challenging rides with his friends at the Massapequa Bike Club, but also loved going on more relaxed rides with his family along the Jones Beach bike path. Tom was a positive influence on those around him with endless energy and determination to make the most out of every day.

Tom fought hard and bravely in his battle against cancer for nine long years. Despite spending so much time in and out of hospitals and doctor appointments, he never lost his sense of humor. Throughout his entire journey, he cracked jokes and made silly faces with those around him. He will forever be remembered for his quick sense of humor and his ability to make others laugh. Tom is survived by his wife, Barbara; his three children, Thomas III, Caitlin, and William; along with his daughter-in-law, Kenna, and son-in-law, Ben, who all love him and miss him so much.