Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

Since leaving the United States Marine Corps, Sgt. Gabriel Vazquez ’18CPS has focused on helping fellow veterans who face physical and emotional challenges after their service. He volunteers with disabled veterans and their families, especially those connected to St. John’s University, organizing events such as bicycle rides and softball games to raise funds for wounded service members.

Sgt. Vazquez’s life of service nearly ended in childhood when he was rescued from a high-rise fire on Easter Sunday in 1992. The firefighter who saved him was Eugene J. Carty ’73GEd, a St. John’s graduate who started his career as a teacher before joining the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Lt. Carty recalled the rescue: “I happened to find Gabe,” he said. “He was between the bed and the wall. I believe he was lucky.” Although Lt. Carty tried to visit him the next day, he was not allowed because they were not related.

Inspired by the events of September 11, Sgt. Vazquez joined the Marines and later took part in a training exercise with FDNY members on Randall’s Island. During this event, he shared his story with a firefighter who had served with Lt. Carty, leading to their reunion more than two decades after the rescue.

“I got a call from this gentleman asking me if I remembered the Easter Sunday fire on Cherry Street in Manhattan,” Lt. Carty recalled. “He said, ‘Well, the little boy you saved is a Marine and he’s here training with us. Would you like to meet him?’ I said, ‘Absolutely.’ Something like this happens so rarely.”

After reconnecting, Lt. Carty supported Sgt. Vazquez as he returned to St. John’s University following his military discharge and even attended his graduation ceremony there.

“The University was so gracious,” Sgt. Vazquez said. “When they saw Gene in uniform, they moved him and my family up to the front.”

Recently, Sgt. Vazquez participated in Soldier Ride, an event sponsored by Wounded Warrior Project that aims to help veterans build confidence through physical activity and community support (https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/soldier-ride). Lt. Carty attended one of the ride’s rest stops in Sag Harbor to encourage him.

“It’s intended to show the healing power cycling can have on physical and mental health,” Sgt. Vazquez observed.“Physical activities help them cope with stress, and physical and mental concerns,” he noted.“I can attest to that.When we complete our service, part of us stays there.It isn’t easy to transition.Rides like this really help us rebuild that camaraderie and sense of community and get us outside the house.The Soldier Ride in New York is probably the most visible Wounded Warrior Project event.”

Sgt.Vazquez described his connection with Lt.Carty as representative of ties between Marines and firefighters:“Like the Marine Corps, firefighters start together and they finish together.I thought our story could be a source of inspiration and unity.Firefighters and veterans share a lot of similar injuries.”

Lt.Carty praised Sgt.Vazquez's commitment:“Gabe was telling me all about what he was doing for the Marines.He epitomizes the statement,'You want to get something done, ask a busy person to do it.' He gets it done.He wears so many hats.He’s so committed.”

Sgt.Vazquez continues advocating for veterans’ resources within both veteran circles and at St.John's University.“A big part of what I do is amplify available resources for veterans and try to help eliminate the stigma that prevents them from using them.There are a multitude of resources being offered.”

Lt.Carty added,“He’s such a good guy doing so many good things.I want to do whatever I can to help him.”

Reflecting on their professions' similarities,Lt.Carty said firefighters work individually but succeed as a unit,much like Marines,both sharing strong bonds of brotherhood.