Joseph Vigiano Jr., 33, was promoted to sergeant with the New York Police Department on Monday, August 31, 2026, a ceremony that occurred nearly 25 years after his father and uncle died on September 11, 2001.
His father, NYPD Emergency Service Unit Detective Joseph Vigiano Sr., was among the first responders who entered the World Trade Center complex during the terrorist attacks and did not survive. His uncle, John T. Vigiano II, a firefighter with the FDNY, also died in the South Tower.
"My dad was brave. There’s countless stories of his heroism," Vigiano Jr. said at the ceremony held at 1 Police Plaza. "My dad loved this job, and I’ve never heard anyone say that he didn’t like the work and doing the type of work that he did. And I found that I also enjoy the career as well. It’s a great, fulfilling, rewarding career, and I work with great people."
Vigiano Jr. most recently served with ESU Truck 7 and has worn his father’s shield number, 4511, since becoming a detective. He will now attend sergeant school at the NYPD academy before being assigned to a command.
"After an unthinkable loss, the Vigiano family chose service again and again," said Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. "They knew its cost more intimately than almost any family could, and still they continued to answer the call." Vigiano was one of 100 members promoted to sergeant during the ceremony.
Vigiano Sr. had previously survived two on-duty shootings and received the American Legion Police Post No. 460 Medal for Valor. His son remembered him as a family man with a sense of humor who also volunteered as a firefighter.
Vigiano Jr. recalled childhood memories of family picnics and camping trips with his father and uncle. He stated that both men, who died saving others, would be proud of his achievement.
Vigiano Jr.'s mother also worked for the NYPD, serving in the 75th Precinct, adding to the family's tradition of public service. His wife, Jenny, expressed pride in her husband's recognition, calling him the hardest worker she knows.