Wayne Brooks Jr., second firefighter killed in Port Newark cargo ship fire, remembered as "superhero" at funeral
NEWARK, N.J. -- Family and friends remembered Wayne Brooks Jr., one of the two Newark firefighters killed in the cargo ship fire, at his funeral on Friday.
Hundreds of firefighters, many from around the U.S., attended the service to pay their respects.
Fire Capt. Augusto Acabou, who also died in last week's fire, was laid to rest on Thursday.
Brooks' heartbroken family followed the casket into the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart before his two daughters spoke about their father, calling him a "superhero."
"The most amazing man and dad. I love you so much and you will be greatly missed by all," said Taylor Brooks. "My dad died doing what he loved to do, and he is so brave."
"You haven strengthened me, guided me and protected me throughout my life. And each memory will be cherished and remembered with a smile," said Dasia Vaughn. "I know you will be with me every step of the way for the rest of my life. Love you."
- Related Story: Funeral held for Newark Fire Capt. Augusto Acabou, killed in line of duty battling cargo ship fire
Brooks, a 16-year veteran of the Newark Fire Department and affectionately known as "Bear," graduated first in his class at the fire academy and loved to cook for fellow firefighters, his friends said.
"Brooks is one of those guys that he always looked out for the people he worked with. His love for the job, he loves the fire department and stuff like that. Whatever he could do for the fire department, he did," said Jonathan Detras. "It's one of those times where he died doing what he loved to do."
Brooks was posthumously promoted to captain.
"I will continue to make you proud," said his daughter Taylor.
"I will honor you ilfe by leading a healthy and joyous life while knowing you are right here with me," said his daughter Dasia.
Brooks graduated from St. Benedict's Prep and worked for United Airlines. He qualified for the Junior Olympics in fencing at a young age.
Gov. Phil Murphy ordered U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half staff Friday.
