In Memory of Christopher Pickford

I just spent the weekend in NYC, and we went to the Brooklyn, Coney Island Sept 11th Memorial with Chris's mom. A lot has happened since Sept 11th: Chris's dad (my brother Tom) died in 2005. His brother David became a firefighter with FDNY, fell in love, married, and has a beautiful son, named Christopher Peter Pickford. We are all still trying to live our lives to the fullest, keeping in mind that Chris would have insisted on that. I can't say what brought me to this web page, but I feel a sense of pride and peace now.

Thank you all,
Aunt Susan

*** Posted by susan pickford on 2010-08-10 ***

Christopher was my cousin. I didn't know him very well because I was very young, maybe 3. But from what I heard, he loved me very much. He was a brave man, and I will never forget him and what he has done for us. I wish I could've known him longer and better. I miss him very, very much, and I love him with all my heart. He will always be with me and my family. I pray for him and his family (my aunts and uncles, etc.) I love you all very much.

Love,
Kaeley Chase <3

*** Posted by Kaeley Chase on 2009-12-02 ***

After doing an internet search for 9/11 NYFD bracelet, we stumbled upon this website and quickly found the name of the courageous young firefighter we were looking for, Christopher James Pickford. He was 32 years old at the time of his death—such a terrible waste of a life, of this man who put his life on the line every day for his fellow man. Reading the tributes and condolences, it is obvious that he was loved by all who knew him, and many prayers have been sincerely prayed by those of us who didn't know him, but who appreciate his sacrifice.

To Kristen, the owner of the silver bracelet, Kim and I hope you are visiting this website again during the 2009 holiday season because Kim has located the bracelet that you lost. Kim works at a Red Roof Inn, and this bracelet was left behind in one of their rooms several months ago. The policy is to keep items in the lost and found department for 30 days and then dispose of them. However, Kim held on to this bracelet for months longer than that, hoping that the guest who left it would call to claim it. Today she brought it home so that we could research it on the internet. A few clicks later, and we found this page. We both hope you read this and email us at mrcptnr (at) yahoo (dot) com, using Christopher's name as the subject. Our Thanksgiving has been made even more special this year by having the opportunity to return this cherished bracelet to you, Kristen. Our prayers are with you, your Mom, and all those who lost loved ones on 9/11/2001.

Sincerely,
Kim Pitner
Marcia Pitner

*** Posted by Kim P & Marcia P on 2009-11-23 ***

About a month after the attacks my mother bought me a silver bracelet with a name on it and she told me that the name was for a fallen firefighter on 9/11. It had Christopher Pickford's name on it and I prayed for him and his family every night. I wore that bracelet for four years until someone stole it and I was heartbroken when I found out that I could not get a replacement. I hope whoever stole that bracelet knows the significance of the amazing person that the name represents.

Though I never met him, I'll remember Christopher Pickford forever. Rest in peace.

*** Posted by Kristen on 2009-09-11 ***

I didn't know Chris personally. But I did lose a very close friend that day, who was a Captain in the department. The reason I post? I walk my dog every day on the block where he must have lived in Queens and that bears his name. It is a reminder. I look up at the street sign every morning, and I say a prayer. For Chris and all the others: At this eighth anniversary, many of us remember and always will. My prayers and thoughts are with Chris's family on 9/11/09.

*** Posted by Sheila on 2009-09-03 ***

I go to the same school he went to, and there is a mural memorial for him there.

*** Posted by KJ on 2009-07-27 ***

We were delighted to see Tommy and Linda, Christopher Pickford's parents, when they came to Cork, Ireland. I remember Chris from when I was in New York. Love from Dorothy, John, and Audrey.

*** Posted by Dorothy Pickford O Connor on 2009-01-22 ***

I remember Chris from when I was in New York. He never liked walking.

Love from Dorothy, John, and Audrey in Cork, Ireland (His Cousins)

*** Posted by Dorothy Pickford O Connor on 2009-01-22 ***

I was lucky enough to know Chris well. He was one of my closest friends. We went to school together. We hung out together. And to this day I consider myself one of the most privileged men alive because I have the memories of a great man. R.I.P., SUPER!

*** Posted by Jerry Kelly on 2008-12-27 ***

Hi. Chris' granda and my dad were brothers. Both were born in Ireland. My dad's name was Chris, and he lived in Limerick. Chris' dad and mum came to Limerick a few years ago, after their son's tragedy. All we can do is pray for him and his fellow workers and family. Our thoughts are with ye all. Always.

*** Posted by Colette Pickford Carmody on 2008-10-18 ***

Rest in peace, Chris.

*** Posted by Anthony Felice on 2008-09-01 ***

I was on Google, tracing my family tree, and searched "Christopher Pickford," which is my son's name (born May 2000). I came across this site, and my thoughts changed immediately. The events of September 11th with be with us all for ever, and I remember (like so many others) exactly where I was and what I was doing when the news broke across the world. It is a tragic event, and the loss of so many individuals is heartbreaking, even more so now, 6 years on.

I cannot begin to imagine how terrible this event was for the many families whose lives were turned upside down on that fateful day, but I truly hope that you all find peace and are able to live your own lives to the full, particularly Christopher's family.

Whilst I never met Christopher, or his direct family, I am sure if I trace my family tree far enough, I will find the connection. I know that every time I write my Christopher's name from this point forward, you will all be in my heart.

Such a brave and selfless act, and from those actions so many others were saved. To a hero amongst heroes we send our love from across the water.

Andrea Pickford (Manchester, England)

*** Posted by Andrea Pickford on 2008-05-03 ***

I knew Chris many years ago, at a time that I was looking for caring and understanding. Chris was able to give that to me in a way he probably ever knew. He believed in me when I did not believe in myself. He made me laugh even though I was always crying on the inside. Our friendship was short but powerful, at least to me. He helped to restore a sense of confidence and safety, things that I had never felt before. He meant more to me than he ever knew and I cherish the things that he once wrote to me. His friends are lucky to have known him and even though I did not know him for the same length of time or the same level, he lifted me up and I will always thank him and remember him for that. I wonder if he knew that he touched my heart. Rest in peace Chris... I know God is with you.

*** Posted by An old friend on 2007-09-11 ***

Hello,

I first would like to say that I am sorry for this great loss. My condolences to all his friends and family. I live in Massachussetts, and somehow I have Christopher's C.D. I found it at work lying on a desk, and it was there for about two weeks before I picked it up and started listening to it. His music is so great. I love that C.D., and I listen to it every day. I would love to know some of the lyrics to some of the songs. If anybody has them, please email me at: Mikeyme84@yahoo.com ... RIP, Chris Pickford.

*** Posted by michael dejesus on 2007-06-14 ***

I did not know Christopher. I am from Buffalo New York and was working on a detail in Long Island on 9/11/01. I remember a girl who was Christopher's cousin who was very concerned about her cousin who was missing. It never left me. I followed the story when I got home and even remember when he was found. Strange that I can't remember her name but I remember his. I include him in my prayers often and just want to let you know--I will never forget. I don't know them, but my thoughts and prayers go out to his family and fiance also.

*** Posted by Gail D on 2006-09-13 ***

In memory of my brave cousin Christopher. We love him and miss him so much every day, but especially today.

*** Posted by Susan Riley on 2006-09-11 ***