Q104.3 New York's Shelli Sonstein of the Jim Kerr Rock and Roll Morning Show was named an Honorary FDNY Battalion Chief Monday morning in a ceremony at FDNY Metro Tech Headquarters in Brooklyn.
The rare honor was in recognition of Sonstein's tireless work helping first responders suffering from 9/11-related illnesses, and it puts her in an exclusive club with the likes of Steve Buscemi and Gary Sinise.
"Shelli Sonstein is a tremendous advocate for the FDNY, in particular, our members battling illnesses related to their brave work during the World Trade Center rescue and recovery effort,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “She is extremely active in the September 11th community, educating her listeners and raising awareness about the growing list of fallen heroes in our Department."
While the 9/11 attacks occurred nearly 18 years ago now, thousands of families still bear scars from the attacks. Many first responders who survived that day are living with a myriad of health complications from Ground Zero toxins.
For over a decade, Sonstein has dedicated much of her Sunday morning show, Sonstein Sessions, to telling the stories of 9/11 families and exploring what still must be done to assist our heroes who are still in need.