About Mike Reilly
Michael Curran Reilly was born on April 3, 1981 at St. Agnes Hospital in White Plains, New York.
Michael, the first child of Michael F. and Monica Reilly, was also the first grandchild for the Reilly and Curran families. His paternal grandparents, immigrants from Ireland, raised Michael’s father and their daughter on Hoe Avenue in the Bronx before moving to Perry Avenue.
Mike’s family moved to Ramsey, New Jersey when he was four years old. He wasn’t too thrilled initially – Ramsey didn’t have enough action. As a child, Michael was extremely interested in firemen, firetrucks, firehouses. He played “fireman” frequently.
He attended the Ramsey Public Schools and at the age of 16, while still in high school, he joined the Ramsey Rescue Squad and shortly thereafter the Ramsey Fire Department as a volunteer. He graduated from Ramsey High School in June 1999 with a full academic scholarship to William Paterson University.
Although he was planning to major in History, his heart was with “fire” – hopefully a 
career with FDNY – his dream. After trying his hand at college, he joined the US Marine Corps as a reservist. His specialty was aircraft firefighting and rescue.
Mike was profoundly affected by the events of September 11th and became more determined than ever (if that was possible) to become a member of FDNY,
“the best of the best”. He took the exam and passed with flying colors. He knew he was on his way, but that it might take a while. He was appointed as a full time fire fighter in Stratford, Ct. and served 7 months in Iraq with his USMC unit, returning in February 2005 – in time to see his beloved Yankees play on opening day. He was a ‘die-hard’ Yankee fan.
While he was in Iraq, “the notice” arrived from FDNY.
Mike was appointed to FDNY in April 2006, a few days after his 25th birthday. He graduated from “The Rock” on July 6, 2006, one of the top 10 in his class and a squad leader.
Mike was determined that he be assigned to the Bronx, where there would be plenty of action and where he could learn from the best and hone his skills. He was granted his wish and assigned to Engine 75. He realized his dreams were coming true. He had one more, to retire from FDNY as a Chief – and to be one of the best ever.
Sadly, that dream would not come true. Although Michael lived only 
25 years,
his life was very full and personally rewarding. His accomplishments were many. There is no doubt he had a great future ahead of him. Mike’s drive and determination, as well as his compassion for others, loyalty and wonderful sense of humor served him well.
He was exactly where he wanted to be, doing exactly what he wanted to be doing on August 27, 2006 – fighting a fire as a member of FDNY in the Bronx.