Honoring the legacy of
Battalion Chief Orio Palmer
A foundation dedicated to continuing the extraordinary legacy of courage, service, leadership, and unwavering physical fitness shown by FDNY Battalion Chief Orio Palmer on September 11, 2001, and throughout his remarkable life & career.
About Orio Palmer
Battalion Chief Orio Palmer was a respected leader in the FDNY during his 20 year career.
On September 11, 2001, Chief Palmer displayed remarkable bravery as he led rescue efforts up the South Tower of the World Trade Center.
Orio and members of Ladder 15 took a freight elevator from the lobby to the 40th floor, where Orio then began to climb the stairs upward to reach the impact zone of flight United 175 at the 78th floor.
His final radio transmissions reveal his unwavering focus on the mission to help others, even in the face of extreme danger.
The Orio Palmer Foundation was established for by his children to honor their father’s memory by carrying forward his legacy of service.
Our Mission
Our mission is to equip first responders, their families, and their communities with the resources they need to face adversity with resilience and purpose through physical fitness.
Our Programs & Initiatives
Continuing Orio Palmer's legacy through programs that support firefighters, their families, and the communities they serve.