Paddy Brown Community Run
The Paddy Brown Community Run was created by Five Borough Veterans to honor FDNY Captain Patrick "Paddy" Brown, a Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran and one of the most revered captains in FDNY history.
On September 11, 2001, Captain Brown and eleven firefighters from Ladder 3 entered the North Tower to rescue trapped civilians. Even as conditions deteriorated on the 40th floor, Captain Brown’s final radio transmission made their commitment clear: they were staying to help those who couldn't evacuate on their own. They made the ultimate sacrifice that morning, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service that continues to inspire generation after generation.
For Five Borough Veterans founder Michael Matos, this memory is deeply personal. As a first-grader evacuated through the smoke and fear of 9/11, Michael returned home to a paralyzed neighborhood and learned that the firefighter he had looked up to as a child was gone. Captain Brown’s courage inspired Michael’s own eventual military service and ultimately led to the founding of Five Borough Veterans.
We host this run to bridge generations, ensuring that the heroism of Paddy Brown, Ladder 3, and every first responder who gave everything 25 years ago remains an active part of New York City's living memory.
Event Logistics & Details
Location: FDNY Ladder 3 Firehouse (108 E 13th St, New York, NY) to 9/11 Memorial.
Schedule:
6:00 PM: Gathering, Registration & Opening Remarks
6:30 PM: Step-off
Course & Pace: A community-led memorial run suitable for all fitness levels.
All community members, veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, families and New Yorkers across the five boroughs are invited to join.
If you’re an organizational leader who’d like to join us as a supporting organization, please reach out to us directly at info@fiveboroveterans.com.