He has been a guest lecturer at major colleges and universities around the country and remains a highly sought-after public speaker in his local community, where he frequently speaks to civics groups, schools, corporations, and local organizations as a motivational speaker, sharing his unique experiences of 9/11 and his career.

[3] He produced a weekly photo-column in The Record called 'Picture This', featuring colorful aspects of life in North Jersey.

Life Magazine listed it as one of the "100 Photographs That Changed the World," and the photo is part of the permanent collection of the Library of Congress.

[6] Also in 2002, an autographed original print signed by Franklin and the three firemen pictured in the photo, sold for $89,625 at Christie's Auction House, with proceeds benefiting two 9/11 charities.

[7] The photo has also been instrumental in raising money for other charitable causes, including juvenile diabetes, autism, and cerebral palsy.