FOX Carolina 21Upstate man admits lying about 9/11 heroics

A Boiling Springs man admitted Wednesday that he lied about serving in the New York Fire Department during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Jordan Liflander dressed in a uniform with a FDNY patch and was one of a number of speakers at a memorial service held on the 10th anniversary of the attacks at Wofford College.

During his speech, Liflander said he retired as a captain of Ladder Company 133 and that he attended 47 funerals in three weeks for those who died in the terrorist attacks.

Frank Dwyer with the FDNY media office said no one named Jordan Liflander has ever served with the department.

Liflander, who declined to talk on camera with FOX Carolina, told The Associated Press that he got caught up in the moment and tried to represent views of New Yorkers. He apologized for his actions.

Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright, whose department organized the memorial service, released a statement Wednesday about Liflander's lies.

Wright said it was unfortunate that Liflander presented himself fraudulently at such an honored event. He said Liflander was recommended by The Knights of Inferno Motorcycle Club as a guest speaker. He said because Liflander was a local, Wright said it gave him no doubt to Liflander's authenticity.

"Please do not cloud the intent or purpose of this memorial service with this individual's misconduct," said Wright. "We honored all the people touched by this horrific event and will continue to do so in the future."

Wright said they would take much greater steps in the future to vet prospective speakers.

Joe Lipshetz, the local president of the motorcycle club that recommended Liflander, said he was shocked to hear about Liflander's lies.

"I can't believe he is disrespecting our fallen brothers and sisters who died that day," Lipshetz said. "In reality he is disrespecting everyone who has been involved with the War on Terror."

Lipshetz said the club tried to verify Liflander's employment with the NYFD but had a hard time getting through red tape so instead they relied on Liflander's local references, including one from a local fire department. Lipshetz said the local references checked out and Liflander was admitted into the club.

"I was floored," said Lipshetz. "I've known Jordan (Liflander) on a personal level and professional level for years. I just can't believe it."

Lipshetz said Liflander resigned from the club Wednesday. He said the club will more thoroughly check future applicants.

Copyright 2012 FOX Carolina (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.