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FDNY loses veteran firefighter, 9/11 responder to COVID-19

Firefighter Christopher Viviano is the 16th member of the department to die due to coronavirus

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Photo/FDNY

By Leila Merrill

NEW YORK — Firefighter Christopher P. Viviano, 53, has died of COVID-19, the FDNY announced Thursday.

A 22-year veteran of the department, Viviano was assigned to Ladder Company 157 in Brooklyn. He responded to the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, and was cited for bravery during his career.

“Firefighter Viviano is the 16th member of the Department to die due to COVID-19,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “We have lost far too many incredible people like Christopher to this terrible illness. He dedicated his life to the noble mission of bravely protecting life and property in our city. Our entire Department mourns his loss.”

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According to the department, Viviano is its second active-duty firefighter to die due to COVID-19, but the 16th when including retired members.

Viviano is survived by his wife, their three children, his parents, and his two brothers.

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“When we see these signs, it will be bittersweet. It’s a reminder of the loss — not that we ever forget it — but it also lets us know that the communities won’t forget him,” Peyton Morse’s father said