Oldest retired FDNY firefighter celebrates 103rd birthday on Staten Island. His secret to a long life: A good wife.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - The year was 1953. Vincent R. Impellitteri was the mayor of New York City.

That’s when 31-year-old Anthony Aquaro was sworn in as a firefighter with the FDNY. He would go on to serve 26 years with Engine 269 on Union Street in Brooklyn.

Fast forward to Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024 at Engine 168, EMS Station 23 in Rossville where family and friends gathered to celebrate Anthony’s 103rd birthday, two days early. The firehouse was decorated with festive balloons and tables of food.

Officials on hand included state Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo, who was joined by representatives of state Sens. Andrew J. Lanza and Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, as well as District Attorney Michael McMahon, and Councilman Joseph Borelli. FDNY Chief of Department John Hodgens and members of Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 presented Anthony with birthday gifts.

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