Manuel Delvalle Jr., 32, was the only member of Engine 5 to not make it safely out of the North Tower on 9/11. One story has Manny last seen on the 10th floor offering oxygen to an evacuee. He joined the FDNY in 1994 and by 9/11 had the goal of becoming a lieutenant. According to his family, Manny was a guy who never put off until tomorrow what could be done today. His organizational skills were legendary.
Very proud of his Puerto Rican heritage, he enlisted Engine Co. 5 to participate in New York City’s boisterous Puerto Rican Day parade. A lover of Latin music, Delvalle was taking advanced salsa classes.
Manny, was an awesome guy, always a friendly face with an infectious laugh. We met freshman year at the University of Maryland College Park. I’m not surprised he stayed to rescue people, he was that type of guy.
I roomed with Manny at U of Maryland. He was so cool and generous. I was driving home last night and ended up talking about him to my son. I told my son how Manny worked with me on the basketball court and taught me how to really play. Plus hilarious trash talk. He was so much fun. Today I tried to contact him to thank him and see how his life turned out. I am devastated.
God bless you Manny …. You gave it your all and you were wonderful soul …. Some day I will see you again in a better & glorious place … B. Albino.
We are cousins – we played together as babies. I pray he is in heaven with Jesus that I may one day see him again in eternity.