A newly promoted detective in New York City, Joe Vigiano, is following in his father’s footsteps by wearing his father’s retired shield number, 4511, from his time as a hero detective during the 9/11 attacks.
Joe Vigiano, 32, a member of the NYPD’s Emergency Service Unit, proudly displayed his father’s shield number at his promotion ceremony, honoring his father’s legacy of service and sacrifice.
“Now I have the privilege of wearing my dad’s shield number,” Joe Vigiano shared with The Post, reflecting on the honor and responsibility of carrying on his father’s legacy.
Joe Vigiano was just 8 years old when his father, Joseph Vigiano, a detective with ESU’s Truck 2, tragically lost his life on September 11, 2001, while bravely rescuing individuals in the World Trade Center.
His father’s brother, John, who was a firefighter with the FDNY, also perished in the terrorist attack, leaving a deep impact on the Vigiano family.
Joseph Vigiano and his mother, Kathy, who is also a retired police officer, met while working together at Brooklyn’s 75th Precinct, creating a strong bond rooted in service and dedication.
“He went to work and never came home,” Kathy Vigiano recalled, highlighting the sacrifice and commitment of her late husband, Joseph.
Reflecting on his decision to join the NYPD and follow in his father’s footsteps, Joe Vigiano expressed how the support and camaraderie of the ESU members helped his family during the difficult times following the 9/11 attacks.
Now a member of the department for eight years, Joe Vigiano has served in Brooklyn’s Emergency Truck 7, continuing the legacy of service and sacrifice that his father exemplified.
With his brother John serving in the Marines and his brother James also working in the NYPD, the Vigiano family continues to uphold a tradition of service and dedication to their community.
Last year, Joe and his brothers demonstrated their commitment to service by saving a man in Brooklyn who had been shot in the chest, highlighting the courage and dedication that runs in their family.
Surrounded by his proud family, including his mother, wife Jenny, and son Joseph, named after his grandfather, Joe Vigiano expressed his father’s likely sentiment about his achievements, stating, “I’m sure he would be proud.”
“More importantly, I think he would be proud of my family, my wife and son. They’re great,” Joe added, acknowledging the support and love that sustains him in his role as a dedicated detective in the NYPD.
