The Knights of Columbus Council 13358 is named in honor of Donald J. Burns, due to all of his accomplishments and what he has given back in his life. He’s a shining example of the 4 principles of the Knights of Columbus, and therefor honored by our council.
Donald J. Burns‚ 61‚ assistant chief‚ FDNY‚ citywide tour commander. Burns had set up a command center in the World Trade Center’s South Tower just minutes before it collapsed. Decorated five times during his 39-year career‚ Burns had been the commander of Tower 1 at the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. He was considered a ‘walking encyclopedia’ because of his vast knowledge of New York City’s streets and subway system.
Service was in his genes: Burns’ father retired as a battalion chief. A father of 3‚ he also volunteered with his hometown fire department.
Every night he would go outside to watch the sun set over the Long Island Sound because every sunset and every day is unique. But mostly he loved taking long walks with his wife‚ Betty.
A more detailed write-up of his amazing life, can be found here:
https://honoringusaheroes.org/heroes/burns-donald/