feehan who was killed on september 11th, 2001. an entire department was touched by the ceremony at south street sea port. feehan's son and daughter deeply moved. what would your father have said looking at this boat? >> he'd be incredibly proud. but he was -- such a son of the city. he loved new york so much. >> it's a real testament to a wonderful man and a great father and a great citizen and son of new york. >> reporter: at 71 years old, deputy commissioner feehan was the oldest responder to the world trade center. he perished in the collapse of the south tower. >> through his actions every single day, he taught us how important compassion was to effectively lead others. >> reporter: also in attendance, firefighter and marine engineer robert alexander. he's one of 10,000 fdny members diagnosed with a world trade center related illness. >> we're coming up on year of diagnosis of brain cancer for myself. >> reporter: now still recovers from the world trade center adorns the side of the cabin. >> feehan was a giant in the fire dep