Dillon Rinaldo Honored Posthumously as Hometown Hero

FAIR LAWN, NJ - Longtime residents Ralph and Gerri Rinaldo recently accepted an honor on behalf of their son, Dillon, who was named a "Hometown Hero".

Congressman Josh Gottheimer recognizes "heroes" in the 5th district twice a year, telling their stories and honoring their service.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREE TAPINTO.NET NEWSLETTER

Dillon Rinaldo was a Baltimore City Firefighter for six years, and on October 19, 2023, he was injured along with five other firefighters while battling a blaze. The 26-year-old, who was living out his dream to be a professional firefighter, succumbed to his burn injuries on October 25. Dillon had gone back into an active rowhouse blaze to save a fellow fireman.

"We laid Dillon to rest, but we will make sure his memory lasts forever."~John Cosgrove

Gottheimer honored Dillon at a July 15 ceremony for "Hometown Heroes":

"Firefighting was in Dillon’s DNA. As a toddler, he had turn-out gear at the base of his bed and would listen to his father’s fire radio so he could try to respond to calls with his father. He and his best friends took turns pulling their red wagon “fire truck” and saving the very lucky citizens of their imaginary world. He joined his father for many years as a volunteer on Fair Lawn’s Company Four Engine. In 2017, Dillon became a full-time firefighter with the Baltimore City Fire Department.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE TAPINTO APP FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS. AVAILABLE IN THE APPLE STORE AND THE GOOGLE PLAY STORE .

"He served the people of Baltimore honorably for four years, graduating as valedictorian of his training class and advancing to lieutenant of Engine 46 in July 2022. On October 19, 2023, he was mortally injured in the line of duty, and ultimately, passed away on October 24th. Upon his passing, he was promoted to Captain in recognition of his sterling service.

"As Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace said, “His unwavering commitment to the well-being of others serves as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of working alongside him... Capt. Rinaldo was a shining personification of dedication, bravery and selflessness within the Baltimore City Fire Department.”

"Dillon, you will always be remembered lovingly as a son of Fair Lawn and a true firefighting hero. For your valiant efforts and true passion for helping people, you are a Hometown Hero."

For more local news, visit TAPinto.net