A series of caches commemorating the 343 firefighters that passed on September 11th, 2001. This is going to be a series where one cache is dedicated to every firefighter that fell that day. With each cache, a biography of the firefighter who gave his last act of valor will be placed in the summary. Please take the time to look through some of these biographies.

Michael D. D’Auria

Firefighter

Fire Department of New York

New York

Age: 25

Michael D’Auria was a very warm and loving young man who had a purpose in life. It was somewhat of a struggle getting there but he knew what his goal was and he succeeded. His entire life he wanted to be a fireman. He was sworn into the department on May 2‚ 2001 after receiving 100 percent on both the written and physical tests. He was so proud to be a part of the FDNY.

Mike was a chef at various restaurants in Manhattan‚ Brooklyn‚ and Staten Island. When he graduated from high school‚ he went to culinary school since he had been too young at that time to take the fire department test.

Michael loved getting tattoos‚ but they each had a very special meaning to him‚ e.g. St. Michael the Archangel on his right shoulder. He felt he was his protector. Mike began painting last year. Something he never tried before‚ but when he did he had such a talent that people were just amazed seeing his paintings.

Most of all‚ Michael was a caring‚ giving person. He literally would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. Michael was a hero to many people over the years; now he’s a HERO to all.

As I sit here and write‚ I cry because my heart aches but I know you are happy now‚ Michael. You knew life here was only a small part of a very big picture. Michael made a statement to his sister‚ Christina‚ several months before September 11: ‘I know when I die it’s going to be in a big way and it’s going to change the world.’ How right you were my son.

Always and forever in our hearts.

Mom