Michael Edward Roberts
Age: 31
Residence: New York, NY, United States
Occupation: Firefighter, Engine 214, New York Fire Department
Location: World Trade Center
Michael came from a firefighting family. His Uncle Bob and Michael’s Father John were both firefighters. The badge, No.6611, carried by his Uncle was passed to his Brother, John, Michael’s Father, and then passed on to Michael.
At that point the badge was a family heirloom. His Mother, Veronica, suggested that Michael put the badge in a vault and get another to use everyday. He didn’t. In four years of firefighting he never lost it.
After that tragic day the badge was mistakenly given to the family of another Michael Edward Roberts who died that day. The families eventually met and exchanged the badges.
Michael was an extraordinary man in many ways. He volunteered to work holidays for other men who had families. As a big brother he pushed his younger sister to finish college. She did.
The thing that touched me the most while researching about Michael was the guestbook entries left by his Mother Veronica. Maybe it’s a “mom” thing but I wept while I read the writings of a Mother who loves and misses her son. A Mother who is an example of a truth in life.
A Mother’s love never ends. Her son is a hero and she’s a heroine because she keeps his memory alive. To truly know what Michael was like and how he affected those around him who loved him and knew him you need to read the guestbook entries. Especially those of his precious beautiful Mother.
On a personal note.. Veronica if I could I would give you a big hug. Your love for your Son has touched me in a way I don’t have the words to describe. I will never forget your precious Son and I will always have a place in my heart for you. It has been an honor to write about your son and to see him thru your eyes.
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References and more information on Michael Edward Roberts:
Keepers of Sorrow a poem a close friend of Michaels wrote (PDF file)
FDNY Fire-fighter
Michael Edward Roberts 15/07/1970 – 11/09/2001 ‘A Tribute’
(If you read the link above you see a song referenced, Christmas New York, you can go to this link. Scroll down and listen to the song.