A 24-year-old NYPD cadet will wear his late father’s badge number as he follows in the footsteps of a 9/11 hero who made the ultimate sacrifice for his city.
At a Glance
- George Miller will graduate from the NYPD Academy on May 8, honoring his father Thomas Miller who died from 9/11-related cancer
- Thomas Miller, who passed away in 2023 at age 56, returned to Ground Zero after already completing his shift on September 11, 2001
- The NYPD granted George his father’s badge number 31939 in a special ceremony
- Over 700 first responders have died from 9/11-related illnesses since the attacks
- Before his death, Thomas advised his son to remember the true purpose of joining the force: helping people
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
When George Miller pins on his NYPD badge for the first time as a full-fledged officer on May 9, the number 31939 will represent far more than a simple identification marker. That badge number belonged to his father, Thomas Miller, a dedicated NYPD officer who responded to the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001, and later died from cancer linked to his service at Ground Zero. The department granted George his father’s badge number during a special ceremony, creating a powerful physical connection between father and son in service to New York City.
Thomas Miller had just finished his shift when the terrorist attacks occurred, but instead of heading home, he returned to help with rescue efforts. This selfless act would ultimately claim his life two decades later. On February 22, 2023, Officer Miller died at age 56 from bone marrow cancer related to his exposure at Ground Zero. He joins over 700 first responders who have succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses since that fateful day in 2001.
Following His Father’s Footsteps
George was just an infant when the September 11 attacks occurred, but his father’s courage and sacrifice shaped his own calling to law enforcement. Despite knowing the potential dangers of the profession, George chose to follow the path his father blazed. His dedication will culminate on May 8 when he graduates from the New York City Police Academy, beginning his career with the NYPD the very next day.
Those who knew Thomas Miller recall that he rarely spoke about 9/11 or his work at Ground Zero. The emotional weight of that day and its aftermath proved difficult for him to discuss, even with family. Despite this silence, his actions spoke volumes about his character and commitment to public service – qualities his son now carries forward. Thomas retired from the force in 2014 after a distinguished career, but his influence continues through his son’s service.
A Father’s Wisdom Lives On
Before Thomas Miller passed away, he imparted crucial advice to his son about joining the police force. He emphasized that George should always remember the fundamental reason for putting on the uniform: to help people. This guidance reflects the true spirit of public service that defined Thomas’s career and now guides George as he begins his own journey in law enforcement.
For George Miller, wearing his father’s badge number isn’t just an honor – it’s a responsibility. Each day he serves, he’ll carry a tangible reminder of the sacrifice his father made and the values he stood for. In a time when law enforcement faces numerous challenges, stories like the Millers’ remind Americans of the dedication and sacrifice that countless officers and their families make to protect their communities and uphold the values that make our nation strong.