Tim Duffy

FDNY firefighter Tim Duffy embodies courage, compassion, and the unbreakable spirit shared by American heroes and the motorcycle community alike. On September 11, 2001, while off duty, Duffy suited up, climbed onto his 2000 Harley-Davidson Super Glide Sport, and rode straight into lower Manhattan to help. He arrived at the base of the South Tower just as it collapsed, was buried beneath debris, and still continued rescuing others—making repeated trips in and out of Ground Zero to aid the injured amid unimaginable chaos.

Although health complications from toxic exposure eventually forced his retirement from the FDNY, Duffy’s dedication to service never wavered. Channeling his experiences into a mission of healing, he went on to found 1 Soldier 1 Dog 1 Team, a nonprofit organization that pairs veterans and first responders with shelter dogs to support recovery from PTSD. Through his advocacy for mental health awareness and post-service support, Duffy continues to change lives and inspire hope.

Honored through the annual “Ride to Remember,” Tim Duffy’s bravery and lifelong commitment to helping others are forever etched into history. The iconic image of him riding his motorcycle into the devastation of 9/11 remains a powerful symbol of American heroism, resilience, and selfless service.