Tributes are being paid to a "brave and dedicated" Mayo man whose heroic actions saved lives on one of the darkest days in US history.
Michael Lyons passed away last week from cancer after battling the illness in the years since the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001 in New York City.
The 53-year-old, who grew up in Swinford, Co Mayo, had risen through the ranks to Captain in the New York Fire Department.
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After completing a degree in history and English from the National University of Ireland, Galway, Michael departed for NYC and joined the FDNY in 1998.
The father-of-two was one of the responders on 9/11 and his efforts saved the life of one man, Pasquale Buzzelli, whom he pulled from the wreckage of the North Tower.
However, like many rescuers at Ground Zero, Michael was subsequently diagnosed with cancer and he battled the illness for almost six years before passing away on March 29.
He is understood to be the 276th firefighter in New York to have died from a 9/11 related illness.
At his funeral on Monday, Michael was remembered as someone who was always willing to help someone in need.
He "simply loved" his 20 years in the FDNY, younger brother Martin told mourners, as Irish Central reports.
“He made bonds forged through thick and thin situations, and based on today they clearly stood the test of time," he said.
"A few years back, when he was asked why he joined the FDNY, Mike said, ‘The opportunity to make a difference and serve the greater good.’”
Martin added that despite his heroics on 9/11, his brother was "never one to brag or tell us what went on".
“He provided hope with many on their own cancer journeys. It was never too much for him to reach out and speak to anybody," he added.
Michael stayed in touch with Pasquale Buzzelli, the man he rescued from the rubble, over the years and the two remained friends.
Mr Buzzelli wrote in tribute to the firefighter: "On September 11, 2001 I was trapped in the rubble after both towers were brought down. I prayed and called out for help and help arrived.
"It arrived in the form of four of the bravest, dedicated, and selfless NYC FIREMEN, one of which was Mike Lyons. We have been friends ever since. From the moment we were reunited months later our friendship grew.
“I loved his soft-spoken demeanor, Irish brogue accent and caring and kind gentle soul. He never wanted any attention drawn to him, he didn’t want to trouble others with his troubles and illness yet he helped so many in return, again selflessly.”
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