08/11/2026
He was born to be a firefighter.
From the time he was a child wearing a red plastic fire helmet while watching Emergency, Dana Hannon knew he wanted to serve. After high school, he joined his hometown volunteer fire department, eventually becoming captain, while continuing to learn and train at the Bergen County Fire Academy. His passion for the fire service never stopped growing.
Dana’s dedication carried him from volunteer service in New Jersey to the Bridgeport Fire Department, where he earned a Medal of Valor for rescuing a woman from a burning building. In 2000, he achieved his dream of joining the FDNY and was assigned to Ladder 34 before rotating to Engine 26. He was not only a firefighter, but also a mentor and instructor who loved helping others grow in the profession he admired so deeply.
Those who knew Dana remember a man who was funny, sarcastic, compassionate, and always willing to help. He loved hunting, fishing, fixing things, and spending time with the people he loved most. In the summer of 2001, he proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Allison, at the top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, a moment that captured his adventurous spirit and big heart.
On September 11, 2001, Dana answered the call and made the ultimate sacrifice.
As we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, we invite you to join us at the Springfield Area Memorial Stair Climb. Climb 110 stories in honor of Dana, the 343 FDNY firefighters who gave their lives that day, and every first responder whose courage continues to inspire us.
Every badge represents a life.
Every step honors their sacrifice.
Every climb ensures they are never forgotten.
Registration is now open. Join us as we honor, remember, and climb.
www.springfieldmemorialstairclimb.org
