NEW YORK (MYFOXNY) -
Joe Cassano's dreams of following in his father's footsteps as a firefighter have been put on hold after resigning from the FDNY's Emergency Medical Service.
The son of Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano is under fire over his tweets, writing in one: "I like Jews about as much as Hitler."
In another: "Getting sick of picking up all these obama lovers and taking them to the hospital because their medicare pays for an ambulance and not a cab."
He also described his job as an EMT as "the worst" and used derogatory terms to describe black people, the New York Post first reported.
Mayor Mike Bloomberg on Monday said that he was offended by the messages.
Commissioner Cassano said he was "disappointed" in his son's comments and that they do not reflect the values of his family and the FDNY.
The younger Cassano released a statement, saying in part "my intention was never to hurt anyone, or any group, and these tasteless comments do not reflect the person my parents raised me to be."
If Joe Cassano hadn't resigned from his job he could have been fired, according to one legal expert.
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Full statement from Commissioner Salvatore Cassano:
"I am extremely disappointed in the comments posted online by my son Joseph, which do not reflect the values – including a respect for all people – that are held by me, my family and the FDNY. I have worked hard for many years, as have so many people in the agency, to make the FDNY more diverse and inclusive. There is no place - and I have no tolerance - for statements that would harm the good reputation we enjoy due to our honorable service to all New Yorkers.
"As a parent, this is very painful for me, but I believe my son has made the right decision. I love him very much and, with the support and love of our entire family, we will get through this together."
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Full statement from Joseph Cassano:
"From the bottom of my heart, I'm truly sorry and I apologize for my offensive remarks. My intention was never to hurt anyone, or any group, and these tasteless comments do not reflect the person my parents raised me to be.
"Working for the FDNY requires that you conduct yourself in a dignified manner, reflecting the highest standards of the Department and accepting the incredible responsibility to the City of New York. I clearly did not do that and I take full responsibility for my comments.
"I know my actions have hurt and disappointed many people, especially my family. I would like to move forward, learn from my mistakes and continue to grow as a person with the support of my family, friends and loved ones."
