02/11/2025
One hundred years ago today, Fort Lee Fire Firefighter Fred Cavaliere died as a result of critical injuries sustained while fighting a fire at the National Evans Film Laboratory located at the corner of Linwood Avenue and Main Street. An ammonia tank inside the building exploded, causing a major collapse of the structure. The incident occurred February 7, 1925. Cavalier died at Englewood Hospital four days later from severe internal injuries. He had been a member of Fort Lee Volunteer Fire Department Company #1 for seven years at the time of his death. Fireman Fred Cavaliere made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and his bravery should never be forgotten. Being the only firefighter killed in the line of duty, his death serves as a solemn reminder of the risks every firefighter takes when responding to an emergency.
These are people who step up, not because they have to, but because they want to serve our community. They sacrifice time with their families, sleep, and sometimes their own safety, all for the sake of helping others. Thank you to all of our Fort Lee Volunteer Firefighters – thank you for your service, your courage and your unwavering commitment to keeping us safe in Fort Lee. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.
