Thousands Mourn NYPD Detective Who Fought For 9/11 Fund

ASTORIA, QUEENS — A former police detective who fought for the extension of health benefits for September 11 responders was hailed as a hero at his funeral Wednesday in Astoria.

"These heroes responded to calls for help," NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill said at the funeral for Detective Luis Alvarez, 53. "He and they viewed their efforts as an obligation that they promised long ago to the people we serve."

Alvarez died Saturday following a three-year battle with colorectal cancer. He had attributed his cancer to the three months he spent searching for survivors and remains in the rubble of the World Trade Center's twin towers after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

"Before he became an American hero, he was mine," Alvarez's son, David, said.

In June, he appeared before the House Judiciary Committee with former "Daily Show" host Jon Stewart to support extending the largely-depleted September 11 Victim Compensation Fund. He was admitted to hospice days later.

Fighting to help other 9/11 first responders, Alvarez's sister Aida Lugo said, became his "dying wish." She thanked the "angels" who helped Alvarez get out his message, including Stewart.

Alvarez was born in Cuba, grew up in Astoria and graduated from Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School in East Elmhurst in 1983, according to QNS.com. He joined the NYPD in 1990.

Alvarez is survived by his parents, wife, three sons and three siblings.

The Associated Press and Newsday contributed to this report.