Joseph W. Pfeifer
Joseph W. Pfeifer | |
|---|---|
Pfeifer in 2015, as assistant chief | |
| Born | 1956 (age 68–69) New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Cathedral College of the Immaculate Conception (1974-1978): 139, 143 Harvard Kennedy School (M.P.A.) Naval Postgraduate School |
| Notable work | Ordinary Heroes: A Memoir of 9/11 (2021) |
| Awards | Knight of the Ordre national du Mérite |
| Known for | First senior fire chief on-site during September 11 attacks |
| Firefighter career | |
| Department | New York City Fire Department Battalion 1 Center for Terrorism and Disaster Preparedness |
| Service years | 1981–2018; 2023–2024 |
| Rank | (Acting) Fire Commissioner First Deputy Commissioner Assistant Chief |
Joseph W. Pfeifer (born 1956) is a retired American firefighter who served with the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Pfeifer served as First Deputy Commissioner of the FDNY from February 2023 until September 2024, and as Acting Fire Commissioner of the FDNY in August 2024. Prior to his civilian work in the FDNY, Pfeifer was an Assistant Chief. He retired in 2018.
He was the first fire chief to respond to the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks in 2001.