By FireRescue1 Staff
NEW YORK — Two FDNY firefighters were killed in a military helicopter crash Thursday in Iraq, according to officials.
NBC New York reported that FDNY Lieutenant and New York Air National Guard Flight Engineer Christopher Raguso and Fire Marshal Christopher T. “Tripp” Zanetis were among the seven service members killed when their helicopter crashed while in transit from one location to another near the town of Qaim.
The Pentagon said another helicopter immediately reported the crash and an Iraqi quick-reaction force secured the scene.
“Today, we mourn the deaths of FDNY Lieutenant Christopher J. Raguso and FDNY Fire Marshal Christopher T. “Tripp” Zanetis, who were killed in an American military helicopter crash in Iraq on Thursday, March 15,”Mayor Bill de Blasio said. “They are truly two of New York City’s bravest – running into danger to protect and defend others, both in New York City and in combat overseas. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, loved ones and fellow service members and FDNY members.”
Lt. Raguso became an FDNY firefighter in 2005 and also volunteered for the Commack Fire Department, who said he was “always there to help anyone with anything, he would never say no.”
Fire Marshal Zanetis joined the FDNY in 2004 and was appointed to fire marshal in 2013.
President Trump tweeted his condolences about the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the brave troops lost in the helicopter crash on the Iraq-Syria border yesterday. Their sacrifice in service to our country will never be forgotten.”