| Year Honored | |
|---|---|
| 2002 | |
| Honoree | |
| Carlos R. Lillo | |
| Agency | |
| New York City Fire Department - Bureau of EMS | |
| Agency City | |
| Brooklyn | |
| Agency State | |
| New York | |
| Last Call | |
| 9/11/2001 | |
| Cause of Death | |
| Terrorist Attack | |
| Biography | |
| Carlos had three passions in life. They were, in order of importance, his wife, his career, and golf. His wife was his "Caci" and they shared a true storybook marriage of love and commitment. Carlos knew early in life that he wanted to work in the medical field. He used to bandage the wings and legs of wounded birds. He once made a makeshift cast for his dog's broken leg, and gave another dog stitches. He would often find pleasing delight in a good game of golf, and would teach his friends the game, stating, "Everyone should know how to play golf".Carlos R Lillo, 37, lost his life while attending patients injured in the worst terrorist attack on American soil, which took place September 11, 2001. He and his partner were called to the World Trade Center number one tower. In route, Carlos repeatedly tried to reach his wife who worked for the New York Port Authority on the 67th floor. Not being able to contact her, and once on the scene, Carlos put his training as a paramedic into action. He was photographed twice in different locations helping the injured. When the facade of Tower 1 fell, his partner called and asked if he needed help, stating that he did, his partner was on the way to assist him. The second tower started collapsing and the partner had to retreat to save his own life. He frantically called Carlos, however Carlos never again responded. Carlos' wife, Haydee, escaped the towers with minor injuries. She stated if it had not been for the teachings from her husband on how to react in emergencies she would have never made it out. He had always been her hero, and once again, he proved his love; she attributes her life to her husband.Mr. Lillo was a paramedic and provided treatment to the sick and injured of New York City and transportation to the appropriate New York City 911 Receiving Hospital. He came to New York from Puerto Rico and started volunteering at what is now Mount Sinai Hospital in Queens. He then volunteered for Astoria Volunteer Ambulance. He became a paramedic in 1991 and graduated from Booth Memorial Hospital Program. In addition, for working for the City Municipal Service, Carlos worked for Lenox Hill Hospital and North Shore Hospital. He was known for the dignity and respect he bestowed on his patients. Carlos stated that each patient is someone's family member and he treated each the way he would want someone to treat his family. "Carlos may no longer be with us, but he will never be forgotten," stated his partner.Honored 2002 |
The United States Official National EMS Memorial Service
