ike Sanchez's father, Anzalone is a retired firefighter. He didn't return messages seeking comment.
Fireman Ed, 53, has been a Jets fan since 1975. He popularized the cheer that's known around the NFL: "J-E-T-S! Jets! Jets! Jets!" For the 2012 season opener, he was invited by the team to participate in the pregame ceremony, leading the cheer from midfield.
He was a staple at Jets home games, leading his cheer from his seat at MetLife Stadium. He always appeared on the JumboTron and often received face time on the game telecast. In September 2009, he received a game ball from coach Rex Ryan after the Jets upset the Patriots at home.
Anzalone was well-known throughout the league. He once said he was walking through a stadium parking lot when Patriots owner Robert Kraft drove up in a limo, rolled down the window and complimented him for being a positive influence on the league.
Fireman Ed said he will continue to root for the Jets and attend games, just not in his usual garb.
"I have enjoyed my time in chanting the greatest chant in all of sports," he says. "I have enjoyed meeting all the wonderful Jets fans around the world and look forward to the day we all can raise the Lombardi Trophy as one and celebrate a world championship down the Canyon of Heroes."
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