Curtis Sliwa’s Son: Following in His Father’s Footsteps with the Guardian Angels

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Written By Kanisha Laing

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Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, has long been a public figure known for his vigilant stance against crime, particularly in New York City’s subways. Today, his son, Anthony Sliwa, has embraced his father’s mission, training under Curtis’s guidance to become a

Guardian Angel himself. The father-son duo exemplifies a shared commitment to community safety, with Anthony following in his father’s footsteps despite facing his own unique challenges.

Anthony Sliwa: Born to Be a Guardian Angel

As Curtis Sliwa has mentored countless men and women over the years in the Guardian Angels, his son Anthony holds a special place in his heart. At just 12 years old, Anthony began training to become a Guardian Angel, already showing a natural affinity for the role. Despite

facing learning disabilities, Anthony’s commitment to fighting crime has been unwavering. Nicknamed the “Angel and a Half” due to his determination and spirit, Anthony stands out as a dedicated young member of the team.

While his learning disabilities could have limited him, Anthony has instead risen to the occasion, driven by his father’s belief in him and the structured training of the Guardian Angels. Anthony’s journey began when he enrolled in the Junior Guardian Angels program in Washington Heights, where he learned martial arts and various tactics for catching criminals.

The Guardian Angels: A Revived Legacy

Founded in 1979 by Curtis Sliwa, the Guardian Angels have long been known for their vigilant efforts to protect citizens, particularly in subway systems. After a period of less activity, they revived their efforts in response to a series of subway attacks in 2016. The group’s iconic red jackets and berets remain a symbol of citizen patrols, and their presence is particularly notable when crime spikes.

Curtis Sliwa himself remains a hands-on leader, patrolling alongside his fellow Angels, and now his son. They focus on areas of the subway where criminals are more likely to strike—like the back of the train, furthest from conductors or other officials.

Training and Patrolling with Curtis: Anthony’s Journey

Curtis has made it a personal mission to train his son Anthony, instilling the same values of vigilance and responsibility. Every weekend, the father-son duo can be found patrolling New York City’s subway lines, with Curtis quizzing Anthony on routes, safety tips, and patrol

strategy. The young boy has grown confident, often standing at attention and taking in every bit of advice from his father. His proudest moments come when he gets to help make the subway safer for others.

Despite his youth, Anthony’s participation in these patrols has had a positive effect on his development. Curtis believes that the responsibility of being a Guardian Angel has helped Anthony with his speaking and memorization challenges. Interacting with the public has provided Anthony with practice in communication, something that might have been harder to achieve in a traditional setting.

A Family Tradition: The Dynamic Duo of Curtis and Anthony

The bond between Curtis and Anthony goes beyond their shared mission of crime-fighting. Their time spent patrolling New York’s subway lines every weekend strengthens their relationship as father and son. Anthony looks up to his father not only as a parent but as a role model and mentor. As for Curtis, watching his son grow into his role as a Guardian Angel is a source of immense pride.

Curtis isn’t the only one recognizing Anthony’s talents. Fellow Guardian Angels, such as Mary “K.C.” Gethins, see Anthony as more than just a child participating in the group. They view him as a full-fledged Angel, ready and capable of helping to make New York safer.

Overcoming Challenges: Anthony’s Success as a Young Guardian Angel

One of the most inspiring aspects of Anthony’s journey is how he has overcome his personal challenges. His learning disabilities could have held him back, but instead, he has found a purpose and drive through his involvement with the Guardian Angels. Curtis Sliwa has noted

how the experience has helped Anthony with his social skills and overall confidence. Every time Anthony takes to the subway with the other Angels, he is not just making the city safer—he is also improving himself.

Anthony’s favorite part of patrolling? Catching criminals. He loves the adrenaline and excitement of making a difference in his community. For Anthony, it’s not just about following in his father’s footsteps but also about proving that he has what it takes to be a real Guardian Angel.

A Look Ahead: Anthony’s Future as a Guardian Angel

As Anthony continues to grow older, it’s clear that he has found his calling. Whether it’s handing out fliers or helping to catch subway criminals, Anthony’s role within the Guardian Angels is solidifying. He has already gained the respect of his peers, and there’s no doubt that his future will be closely tied to the ongoing legacy of the Guardian Angels.

With his father by his side, Anthony has every opportunity to become a key figure within the organization as he matures. Curtis Sliwa’s influence, both as a father and a mentor, has helped shape Anthony into a determined and capable young man, ready to continue the Guardian Angel mission for years to come.

Conclusion

Curtis Sliwa’s dedication to the Guardian Angels has been a lifelong journey, and now his son Anthony is stepping into that role with pride and enthusiasm. Despite facing learning challenges, Anthony has excelled, showing that determination and the right mentorship can

lead to success. Together, the father-son duo is making a difference in New York City, ensuring that the subways are a little bit safer for everyone. As Anthony continues to grow into his role, it’s clear that the legacy of the Guardian Angels is in capable hands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Guardian Angels’ mission?
The Guardian Angels are a volunteer group dedicated to patrolling public spaces, particularly subways, to help prevent crime and ensure the safety of citizens.

2. How did Curtis Sliwa’s son, Anthony, get involved in the Guardian Angels?
Anthony began training with the Guardian Angels at 8 years old, and by 12, he was regularly patrolling with his father, Curtis Sliwa.

3. Does Anthony face any personal challenges?
Yes, Anthony has learning disabilities, but his involvement with the Guardian Angels has helped him improve his communication skills and confidence.

4. What impact has Anthony had as a young Guardian Angel?
Despite his young age, Anthony has gained respect within the group and plays an active role in patrols, helping to prevent crime on the subway.

5. What does the future hold for Anthony Sliwa in the Guardian Angels?
With the guidance of his father and continued dedication, Anthony is expected to play an increasingly important role in the Guardian Angels as he grows older.

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