Few people know that actor Steve Buscemi was a New York City firefighter. Fewer people know that he rejoined his Engine crew in the aftermath of September 11, 2001.
The Reservoir Dogs star anonymously searched for fallen firefighters and other survivors for several days following the attacks. He reportedly worked 12 hour shifts as a volunteer with FDNY Engine 55, his old firehouse.
"He put in 60 hours on top of the pile, pulling out victims," a retired FDNY battalion chief Richard Ardisson, 56, said to People magazine. "Not delivering coffee or giving moral support. He was exhausted and covered in soot."
Buscemi refused interviews and photographs after his volunteer efforts were discovered. However, a witness secretly snapped a photograph of the actor in his fire gear.
Buscemi served FDNY for four years in the little Italy section of New York City. He continues to stay involved with FDNY. After Hurricane Sandy, Buscemi starred in a PSA to help raise money for firefighters who were victims of the storm.