Former NYC Mayor Giuliani Praises Bernie Kerik as 'True Patriot' in Fond Remembrance

Rudy Giuliani, the former mayor of New York City, voiced deep sorrow following the death of Bernard "Bernie" Kerik, the former NYPD Commissioner and his close friend. Kerik, who was 69, passed away after what has been described as a private battle with illness. Both Giuliani and Kerik were at the forefront of New York City’s response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, roles that cemented their friendship.

In a statement released Thursday, Giuliani said, "On September 11th, Bernie Kerik and I saved each other's lives. If we weren't already friends, that bound us together forever. He was my best friend, a true patriot, and one of the bravest men I've ever known." According to Giuliani, Kerik arrived at his side within 20 minutes of the 9/11 attacks and remained with him throughout the crisis. The pair became trapped together during the collapse of one of the towers, an ordeal that lasted up to half an hour before they escaped with assistance and "extraordinary bravery." Giuliani highlighted how Kerik’s actions during the aftermath of the attacks set the tone for the city’s months-long recovery effort.

Kerik’s career in public service spanned more than three decades, beginning in the correctional system before rising through the ranks of the NYPD. Giuliani praised Kerik’s achievements as Commissioner of Rikers Island—where he reportedly reduced prison violence by 90%—and later as NYPD commissioner, when crime rates fell significantly.

• Kerik received over 100 awards recognizing his service and heroism.
• He was honored with a presidential commendation for heroism from Ronald Reagan.
• Twice awarded the Department of Homeland Security Distinguished Service Award.

Despite his decorated career, Kerik’s legacy was marred by legal troubles that surfaced in the mid-2000s. Nominated for Secretary of Homeland Security in 2004, he withdrew after admitting to having employed an undocumented worker as a housekeeper and subsequent investigations led to federal charges. In 2009, Kerik pleaded guilty to eight felonies, including tax fraud, and was sentenced to just under three years in prison. He was pardoned by President Donald Trump in 2020.

Following his release, Kerik resumed working with Giuliani, notably investigating claims of election irregularities after the 2020 presidential race. In his tribute, Giuliani extended condolences to Kerik’s wife, two daughters, and son—who also serves as a police officer—as well as to all who valued Kerik’s leadership and friendship.

“All of us who called Bernie our friend are much better for knowing him,” Giuliani said, emphasizing the enduring impact of Kerik's service and personal courage on the city and nation.