Nandansons Supports Creature Comforts

To the members of the JFK Family

Today is a day that will long be remembered as a dark day in JFK’s history due to the
loss of a beloved member of the JFK family. Augusto (Augie) Acabou, a JFK security
officer, was killed in the line of duty in his service as a Newark firefighter. We learned
early this morning that Augie and another member of Newark’s Engine Company 16
lost their lives battling a fire aboard a cargo ship in Port Newark. No matter which
uniform Augie donned, he carried with pride the banner of being a devoted public
servant whose calling was to make the world safer for others. We stand with so many
who mourn his loss but are grateful beyond words for his service.

Augie joined the JFK family in 1997 as a member of our linen team. His music
collection was legendary as was his athletic performance on the softball field – leading
the JFK team to some impressive season records. In 2010, he joined the security
department where he served throughout his tenure. Ten years ago, we began sharing
his time and talent with Augie’s true calling to serve his home City of Newark as a
firefighter. Although he could have easily hung up his security uniform and dedicated
himself solely to his profession as a firefighter, he was committed to continue as a part
of both teams.

Augie’s presence remained a fixture within JFK as a seasoned and expert member of
our security force. Before, during and after the pandemic, Augie could always be found
in uniform when we most needed him. Whether responding to a routine security assist
or a high risk emergency situation, Augie displayed the highest standards of
professionalism, focus, and courage. Wherever I spotted Augie’s uniform or whenever
I heard his voice on a safety call, I felt that much safer. I know every member of the
JFK team felt the same. We were all better for his presence.

There is no way to adequately convey what Augie meant to the Security Department or
to the JFK family at large. His work in both linen and security meant there was no
corner of the building he didn’t visit and no team he didn’t serve. His dedication, his
warmth and his humility were experienced by nearly every member of the JFK family.
I am certain the members of his Engine Company 16 and residents of the wards of
Newark he served basked in the same warmth and devotion to service.

We are grateful for the expression of support from colleagues and friends. We
received permission from the Governor’s Office to fly the American flag in the
admitting circle at half mast in honor of Augie and his fellow officer’s sacrifices. Mr.
Garrett called tonight to express his sympathy and support for the security team and
the entire JFK team who loved Augie. Our friends at Creature Comforts called to ask if
they could make special visits to allow Niles and Chance to offer their presence and
support to those who are grieving. We are fortunate to have valuable expert resources
to stand with us in the coming days as grief and mourning replace the shock of today’s
news.

HMH offers a 24/7 team member support line that can be reached at 844-642-2665.
The Center for Behavioral Health is also available to provide expert support to team
members. Anyone seeking counseling support can call CBH directly at (732)321-7189
to arrange for individual or group support under the leadership of Dr. Fiona Byrne.
Reverend Akins and the Office of Pastoral Care are always available to individuals and
the team to offer their wisdom and support. Our colleagues in Haven Hospice are also
no strangers to grief and extend their grief counseling resources to team members who
are experiencing a loss. We are blessed to have so many resources to support us
during this time.

As his fire captain described him, Augie was a regular guy, a gentleman with the
biggest heart who was “just awesome.” I know we can all agree. It is no surprise that
firefighters are on a par with nursing as the most trusted and the most self sacrificing
profession. Although the world feels a little darker tonight without Augie’s light, the
heavens burn a little brighter thanks to the courage and sacrifice of brave men like
Augie.

With deepest gratitude for the life, service and sacrifice of Augie Acabou who will
always hold a special place in the heart of the JFK family.

Amie