In the 22 years that have passed since Sept. 11, 2001, just as many New York Fire Department employees have died from World Trade Center-related illnesses as died on the day at ground zero, the department says.
Over the weekend, the FDNY announced the deaths of EMT Hilda Vannata and retired firefighter Robert Fulco, bringing the total number of deaths from World Trade Center-related illnesses to 343.
The deaths of Fulco and Vannta mark a "somber, remarkable milestone," said FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh in a statement Saturday.
"We have long known this day was coming, yet its reality is astounding just the same," Kavanagh said. "Our hearts break for the families of these members, and all who loved them."
According to the FDNY, Vannata died of cancer and Fulco of pulmonary fibrosis, a lung condition that can be caused by exposure to asbestos and other toxic materials. Both deaths were "a result of the time they spent working in the rescue and recovery at the World Trade Center site," the department said.
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