Sunrise Fire Rescue Mourns Retired Capt. Christopher “Benny” Benemio, Two-Time Firefighter of the Year

by Sharon Aron Baron February 17, 2026

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Captain Christopher “Benny” Benemio.

The City of Sunrise Fire Rescue Department is mourning the loss of retired Capt. Christopher “Benny” Benemio, who was a longtime firefighter and respected member of the South Florida fire-rescue community.

According to a statement from Sunrise Fire Rescue, Benemio, who began his career through the explorer program, was officially hired by the department on Nov. 5, 1990. Over the next three decades, he became a cornerstone of the department and a trusted leader within the profession.

Throughout his career, Benemio served on the Urban Search and Rescue Team Florida Task Force II, deploying to major disasters nationwide. His responses covered the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and multiple hurricanes, including Opal, Ivan, Charley, Frances, Irene, Katrina, and Maria.

According to Sunrise Fire Rescue, fellow firefighters said he represented Sunrise with professionalism and dedication on every deployment.

Benemio remains the only Sunrise Fire Rescue employee to have been named Firefighter of the Year twice, earning the honor in 1999 and 2004.

He retired on Oct. 11, 2024, concluding nearly 34 years of service to Sunrise residents, visitors, and business owners.

According to a statement, Benemio, affectionately known as “Benny,” leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, mentorship, and brotherhood.

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Sharon Aron Baron: Editor of Sunrise Talk and Talk Media. Talk Media was created in 2011 to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Northwest Broward County.