Newark Firefighters Wayne Brooks Jr. and Augusto Acabou died during the overnight hours while battling a fire on board a cargo ship in Port Newark.

Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson identified them as 49-year-old and 45-year-old members of Engine 16 on the city’s East side.

“This is the ultimate, ultimate sacrifice of the fire service, to lose a brother or sister of this profession,” he said. “I ask that each and every one of us — not only the ones who are standing in front of me, but the citizens of Newark, the communities throughout our country — fire service is not just a municipality, it’s a brotherhood, a sisterhood throughout the country, and I ask that each of them pray for our brothers.”

Who was Wayne Brooks Jr?

The 49-year-old Wayne ‘Bears’ Brooks Jr., a 16-year veteran, was assigned to Ladder 4 in the South Ironbound district.

Also Read: Who was Augusto Acabou, firefighter killed in Port Newark cargo ship fire?

Mike Giunta, President of the Newark Firefighters Union released a statement saying: “It is with profound sadness that the Newark Firefighters Union announces the tragic loss of two firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while battling a devastating fire last night in the Port of Newark. We mourn the loss of our brothers Augusto (Augie) Acabou and Wayne (Bear) Brooks Jr., who bravely dedicated their lives to keeping the people of Newark safe.

“The Acabou and Brooks families are part of our family; we will mourn together and hold them tight.”

Wayne Jr. was a member of Engine 16 in Newark’s North Ironbound section, according to Newark Fire Chief Rufus Jackson.

Also Read: Port Newark ship fire: 2 firefighters dead, many officers injured in blaze

Brooks just celebrated her daughter’s nursing degree and his own birthday.

According to his Facebook page, he had recently turned 49 in June and had celebrated with a workout regimen in addition to a few other recent family milestones.

This past spring, his daughter graduated from nursing school, and he and his wife celebrated their wedding anniversary in May.

“49 Birthday Cycles complete!!!! 50 in view!!! Thank you…. Everyone….for taking jabs.. sending well wishes… birthday shouts.. texts calls!!!! I am always humble… blessed and truly appreciative of it all. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!!” Brooks said in a post on June 4.

On Thursday, friends and family members shared condolences on his social media page.