Derek Floyd

On April 15, 2024, USMC Veteran and FDNY Probationary Firefighter Derek Floyd passed away due to a heart attack at just 36 years old, months after losing his role with the FDNY due to department-wide budget cuts.

Floyd was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and attended August Martin High School in Jamaica, Queens. After graduating, Floyd enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2006, where he served for nine years and achieved the rank of Sergeant. Floyd served three tours, and earned many accolades including campaign medals for tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and South Korea, a NATO Medal, and a Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation. Floyd had joined the Marine Corps with the ambition to someday become a firefighter.

During his time in the FDNY Fire Academy in 2019, Floyd suffered a previous heart attack and was assigned to modified duty in the chaplain’s office, helping to arrange funerals for fallen FDNY members. Floyd had been trying to get medical clearance to rejoin the firefighting force when he was let go. Floyd then found a job with United Veterans Beacon House, a nonprofit that provides assistance to homeless veterans.

Floyd was a devoted husband and father, who loved spending time with his children. In his free time, Floyd enjoyed rock-climbing and hiking, spending time with friends and family, playing video games, and watching the New York Jets.

FDNY Probationary Firefighter Derek Floyd is survived by his wife, Christine, his six-year-old son, Ethan, and his 2-year-old daughter, Abigail.

Due to the loss of his role with the FDNY, Floyd and his family were deprived of medical benefits and over $600,000 worth of death benefits, leaving his family devastated and in financial ruin.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced it will pay off the mortgage on the Floyd family home.