FDNY commissioner in battle names decorated, and retired hero-head as second-in-command

On Saturday, FDNY boss Laura Kavanagh named a retired, award-winning assistant chief as her first deputy commissioner.

The Commissioner, who is currently facing insurgency from her top brass with many demanding demotions, welcomed Joseph Pfeiffer, who retired in 2018 after 37 years with the FDNY after a long career including as first battalion commander who arrived at the north tower. to establish communication after the attacks.

Insiders say the move guarantees firefighting experience among senior FDNY officials, as the 40-year-old Kavanagh doesn’t have. Pfeiffer, 67, will manage the day-to-day operations and activities of the FDNY across all offices and bureaus.

“Chief Joe Pfeiffer embodies what it means to be the bravest in New York by being the first boss to respond to the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks and found the Center for Terrorism and Disaster Preparedness,” the Mayor said in a statement. Adams.

“With almost 40 years of experience at the FDNY, he is an excellent choice for one of the most senior positions in this remarkable department and someone New Yorkers and firefighters can count on to innovate in every aspect of fire prevention and safety. “.

“Having worked closely with Joe for many years now, I’m thrilled to have him back home at FDNY and joining our executive leadership team.” the FDNY commissioner said.

Before she was named acting fire commissioner last February and then made full-time in October, Kavanagh served as first deputy commissioner under her predecessor, Daniel Nigro, earning $242,767 to date.

Pfeiffer, who lost his brother Kevin, an FDNY lieutenant during the 9/11 rescue effort, said in a statement that he was happy to be back.

“The essence of FDNY is the ability to join forces to solve complex problems in the face of great tragedy,” he said. “Our close-knit team is a sign of our ability to reflect on the past and anticipate the future so we can improve the present.”