Peru, NY – New York State Police (NYSP) Captain Christopher “Chris” Garrow died in the line of duty on June 12 following a battle against an illness that developed after his service at the World Trade Center terrorist attacks on Sep. 11, 2001.

The 47-year-old captain fought his medical issues courageously, according to his family.

“Chris was a true gentleman and will be remembered for his kind and humble demeanor, fantastic work ethic, willingness to help others, amazing sense of humor, contagious smile, and devotion to all who were a part of his life,” his obituary read. “Chris loved his family and friends with his whole heart.”

Capt. Garrow joined the U.S. Marine Corps in July of 1994 and served as an infantry assault man prior to being chosen to serve as a marine security guard within the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok.

He was promoted to the rank of sergeant before he left active duty.

Capt. Garrow was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal during his military career.

He subsequently joined the NYSP and was initially assigned to Plattsburgh as a trooper.

“Chris had a love for the job and being the overachiever he was, stayed busy as a Marine Operator, Firearms Instructor, member of the State Police Underwater Rescue Team, and Field Training Officer,” his obituary read. “He held ranks of Sergeant, Station Commander, Zone Sergeant, Lieutenant, and most recently Captain, which was a career goal for him. Chris is a distinguished pistol expert and received a Superintendent Commendation award, as well as a 911 First Responder award.”

Capt. Garrow was assigned to New Yor City to aid in search and recovery efforts after the Sep. 11, 2001 World Trade Center terrorist attacks, NYSP Acting Superintendent Steven Nigrelli said in a news release on June 12.

He devoted 23 years of his life to his law enforcement career, most of which he spent serving with Troop B.

Capt. Garrow leaves behind his wife, Jillian, and his daughters, Maggie and Ella, according to his obituary.

He is also survived by his parents, brother, nephew, niece, in-laws, and many friends.

Capt. Garrow was laid to rest on June 16.

We mourn the loss of:

Captain Christopher J. Garrow
New York State Police, New York

End of Watch Monday, June 12, 2023

Captain Chris Garrow died as the result of cancer that he developed following his assignment to the search and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site… pic.twitter.com/y8LBBx8vYa

— Beyond the Call of Duty – End of Watch (@EowRide) July 16, 2023

Our condolences go out to @nyspolice and the family & friends of Captain Chris Garrow, who died after a battle with cancer that he developed from his assignment to the search & recovery efforts at the World Trade Center following the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks. #LODD #EOW @ATFNewYork pic.twitter.com/WlRRkF9Ciu

— ATF HQ (@ATFHQ) July 17, 2023

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of New York State Police Captain Christopher “Chris” Garrow, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.

Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.