That fireman and four others from Engine 10/Ladder 10 the Ten House died in the rubble of the World Trade Center that were attacked by terrorists.
For weeks following the attacks, DAncona searched, along with his comrades, for the fallen. And, three years later, as president of the FireFighters New York Motorcycle Club, DAncona wanted to do still more. Ten House sits precariously on the rim of the monstrous hole that was left after Ground Zero recovery operations were completed. The old station house suffered and most of the building was destroyed form the attacks. The classic building was re-built by the city - red brick replaced by sleek stainless steel.
We want a permanent memorial inside the House, DAncona explained.We want something that we can reflect upon now and in the future. That day and the guys who died should never be forgotten.
DAncona and his Suffolk County-based motorcycle club began announcing the benefit run a few months ago. Flyers were printed, the South Shore Press featured DAnconas mission and word spread throughout the motorcycle and firefighter communities.Last Sunday, over 2,800 motorcycles, along with more than 5,000 people, descended upon the Ten House, located at the end of Liberty Street and bordered by the Ground Zero excavation site. I just cant believe how much support weve received,DAncona said as he hoarsely shouted parking direction to still more late arriving bikers some of whom traveled from as far as the west coast to attend the benefit. Bikers from Long Island alone accounted for a seven-mile stretch of Harleys, Indians and BMW motorcycles. When DAncona, who led the Long Island cavalcade of motorcycles, pulled up to Ten House, the tail end of the contingent was still navigating the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway far from downtown New York.In all DAncona said that over $28,000 was raised. Every penny is going toward a memorial, he said. I just want to thank everyone who made this possible.
| Ten House bikers enjoy firehouse chili and cold drinks after a long, hot ride. |  |