Thomas Phelan, a NYC ferry captain who saved hundreds of lives on Sept. 11, 2001, and then became an FDNY firefighter, died in March from cancer linked to toxic fumes caused by the terrorist attacks.

The Phelan Family is receiving The Round Tower Award.

Phelan was a captain on the Circle Line Statue of Liberty ferry cruises when the Twin Towers were attacked. He helped evacuate people from the city, and bring supplies to first responders. In 2003, he joined the New York City Fire Department, and was assigned to Engine Co. 55 in Little Italy. He later became a marine pilot with Marine Co. 9 in Staten Island. Phelan was a lifelong parishioner at St. Michael’s Church, Sunset Park.