9/11 Hero, Longtime Nassau Resident, Laid To Rest

MASSAPEQUA, NY — A 9/11 first responder from Massapequa Park is being laid to rest.

The funeral for Charles Afanasewicz, a member of the NYPD Harbor Unit, was planned for Monday, News 12 reported.

Afanasewicz, who was born in Huntington, died on July 4 from cancer.

He helped usher victims from lower Manhattan in what became known as the 9/11 boat lift.

Afanasewicz was a Vietnam War veteran, who reached the rank of sergeant with the Harbor Unit.

His funeral was being held at St. Rose of Lima Church on Merrick Road in Massapequa. His burial is at the Calverton National Cemetery.

Afanasewicz is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia; three children and seven grandchildren.

He served in the NYPD from 1969 until 2002.

Afanasewicz was 79 years old.