JUNE 2009
VIEW FROM Metro Tech P OINT 9 T HE N EWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE D EPARTMENT FDNY Medal Day 2009
Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano join the members who received medals at the 2009 Medal Day ceremony lthough the weather was versity Auditorium in Manhattan. Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. dreary, June 3 was a bright During the annual ceremony, 51 mem- “Your acts represent the best traditions of day for the FDNY as it cel- bers and four companies received awards this Department and all honor those who ebrated its 140th Medal for the heroism they demonstrated at came before you.” Day ceremony at Pace Uni- emergencies throughout the five bor- This year’s James Gordon Bennett A oughs. Medal, one of the year’s top honors for “Each of these stories sounds like the firefighters, was awarded to Firefighter tale of a Hollywood superhero … and Anthony Romano from Ladder 142. The what these members do each day rivals firefighter rescued a fellow member from anything you see in the movies,” Mayor a fire in Richmond Hill, Queens, on Feb. Michael Bloomberg said. 26, 2008. The 48 medals were presented to one “This is unbelievable, I can’t believe IN THIS ISSUE medical director, 13 fire officers, one it’s happening,” he said after the event, EMS officer, one fire marshal, 25 fire- looking around the auditorium filled with Commissioner’s Message Page 2 fighters, six paramedics, four EMTs and several thousand FDNY members and four fire companies. their families. “What I did that day was EMS Week Pages 8-9 “Despite adversity and physical chal- what any firefighter would have done. I’m Rescues Pages 10-15 lenges, you never flinched, you never just glad it worked out the way it did.” grew weary and you never gave up,” said (Continued on page 16) FDNYNEWS ViewPoint
FDNY Streamlining Dispatch to Keep Response Times at Historic Lows
ne of the core measures of our success at the FDNY respond to the more than 1.5 million is our average response time to emergencies – and calls for assistance we receive each year. Olast year we had one of the most successful years in Yet this is only the latest change we the history of the Department. have made in an effort to respond to Commissioner’s Response times to structural fires in 2008 averaged 4:12 emergencies faster. Message – the fastest time in 14 years and the second-best year on Last May, we launched the successful record (we have 20 years of data and only in 1994 did we Expedited Dispatch pilot program citywide after it resulted have a better response time, 4:08). Our EMS response time in a significant drop in response times in Queens. With this to life-threatening Segment 1-3 calls also was spectacular at program dispatchers assign fire units to an emergency as 6:38 seconds, only one second off from our all-time best of soon as the location and nature of an emergency is obtained 6:37 in 2006. from a 911 caller. If additional information is received from Last month we took another step toward improving the original or subsequent callers, those details are relayed response times with the introduction of Unified Call Taking to units en route via apparatus radio. This program will con- (UCT) in New York City. By streamlining the process for tinue under UCT. answering 911 calls, firefighters – and, eventually, our Last year’s initiative, combined with the new UCT pro- EMT’s and paramedics - will be able to respond to emer- tocol, will allow us to arrive at scenes faster than ever gencies even faster than before, allowing us an even better before – saving more lives and helping all of you do the chance to impact the lives of those we serve. work that’s such a vital part of our mission at the FDNY. Under UCT, an NYPD call taker will collect information from a 911 caller and then electronically transfer that infor- * * * mation to FDNY dispatchers. Under this protocol, callers give information just one time, to one person. This differs his year’s Medal Day was nothing short of astounding. from the previous system, when an NYPD call taker would TAs you flip through the Medal Day book and read the collect information and then initiate a conference call with stories that earned each of the recipients their respective FDNY, requiring the 911 caller to repeat critical informa- medals, it becomes clear why the FDNY is considered the tion. best in the world. Every NYPD call taker has been trained in how to collect Whether it was rescuing children from a multiple- fire information from 911 callers, and in the future, UCT dwelling fire, providing critical medical care to victims will be expanded to include calls requiring an EMS trapped in the 19-story crane collapse, searching for and response. rescuing victims of a gas explosion or rescuing a fellow A key element to this program is the creation of the first firefighter whose life is in danger, each of the medal win- Public Safety Answering Center (PSAC 1) at 11 Metrotech ners placed his or her life on the line to save another. For Center in Brooklyn. The facility – which will be fully that the Department, and the City, are eternally grateful. staffed in autumn – will combine the call-taking and dis- I also was pleased to see the extraordinary turnout of fire patching operations of both the Police and Fire Depart- and EMS members supporting their friends and colleagues ments. during the ceremony. The cheers that rang from the four A second backup center (PSAC 2) is planned for the corners of the auditorium were no doubt heartening for Bronx, and construction will start later this year. Each of those accepting awards. these facilities will have the capacity to support the entirety of the City’s 911 operations, but we also will maintain our other centers throughout the city in the event of a cata- strophic emergency. The decision to centralize and integrate the city’s call taking and dispatch operations will enable us to better
2 COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE June 2009 A Night to Say Thanks FDNY Foundation Honors its Biggest Supporters with Annual Humanitarian Awards
Above Left: (L to R) Colonel Jack Jacobs, former Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen, Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano, Hon- oree Kevin Burke, Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Chairman of the FDNY Foundation Steve Ruzow. Above Right: Hon- orees Arthur E. Imperatore, Sr. (far left) and Brian Williams enjoy the Humanitarian Awards, honoring individuals for outstanding and continuing service to New York City.
he FDNY Foundation honored supporting the Department an all our first ject Team, including Deputy Chief John Brian Williams, Anchor and Man- responders,” said Fire Commissioner Mooney, Battalion Chief Joseph Cunning- Taging Editor of NBC Nightly Nicholas Scoppetta during the event at the ham, Battalion Chief Gerald Tracy, Battal- News; Kevin Burke, Chairman and CEO New York Hilton in Manhattan. ion Chief George Healy, Capt. Thomas of Con Edison; and Arthur E. Imperatore Presented annually, the Humanitarian Yuneman and Lt. John Ceriello from the Sr., Founder and CEO of New York Water- Awards recognize individuals for out- Bureau of Training; Director of Grants ways at the annual Fire Commissioner’s standing and continuing service to the Development Irene Sullivan and Videog- Humanitarian Awards on April 23, and New York City community. James Cramer rapher/Producer Kristin Eng. raised close to $1 million for the nonprof- of CNBC served as the night’s emcee. Students from P.S. 89 in Elmhurst, it organization. Receiving this year’s FDNY Service Queens, received the Chief William Fee- “This is a chance for us to honor people Recognition Award was the Fireproof han Fire Safety Education Award for their from all walks of life and thank them for Multiple Dwelling Wind-Driven Fire Pro- commitment to the fire safety initiative.
A Royal Welcome: Prince Harry of Wales visited Engine 10/Ladder 10 in Lower Man- hattan on May 29, after laying a wreath at the World Trade Center site during his first offi- cial visit to the United States. The Prince shook the hands of all the firefighters at the house, then toured the firehouse's Sept. 11 memorial - dedicated to the six members they lost in 2001 - as well as the bronze World Trade Center memorial located on the side of the fire- house. Firefighters said they were impressed by his humor, kindness and graciousness dur- ing the short visit.
FDNYNEWS 3 ViewPoint New Home Sweet Home Ribbon Cut on Newly Renovated EMS Station 8
newly refurbished EMS Station 8 made its debut on May 26 in AManhattan. “These are beautiful facilities that will be put to good use,” said Chief of Depart- ment Salvatore Cassano. Located in the DNA Forensic Lab at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, just steps from Bellevue Hospital, the sta- tion supports five advanced life support (ALS) and five basic life support (BLS) units. The 6,100-square-foot station includes administrative space, storage for basic and advanced life support ambulances, a Members of the FDNY, Medical Examiner's Office and Dormitory Authority of the State decontamination bay, vehicle supply of New York State cut the ceremonial ribbon officially opening the newly renovated EMS room, a room for the agency’s ambulance Station 8 in Manhattan. call report scanning system and fueling built by the Dormitory Authority of the members can call home as they continue capability for ambulances. It also offers State of New York State. Construction of to provide their lifesaving work,” Chief of support facilities for the approximate 100 the project started in 2001 and portions of EMS John Peruggia said. paramedics and EMTs assigned to the sta- the larger building were completed in EMS Station 8 is one of the oldest tion. 2007, while the EMS station was com- EMS stations in the City, tracing its histo- The project was designed by the pleted in the spring of 2009. ry to the 1870s, when the apparatus was Perkins Eastman architectural firm and “This is a first-class facility that our pulled by horses. Tribute to Tenure Civilian FDNY Members Honored for Service
ivilian members of the FDNY were honored for their tenure on CMay 15, during the Employee Recognition Awards at Headquarters. “Each of you makes for a stronger, bet- ter Department,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “You keep the opera- tion going and continue to make this the best fire department in the world.” Chief of Operations Patrick McNally added: “Our first responders couldn’t do their job without the people in this build- ing.” Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Chief of Operations Patrick McNally with a During the ceremony, Associate few of the honorees at the Employee Recognition Awards ceremony. Accountant Murry Rosen was acknowl- edged for his 45 years of service. Koehler, Special Events Director; Sandra Chief of EMS John Peruggia also was Also honored were seven members Trimarche, Office Manager; Carol Bell, honored for his 25 years of service. He with 40 years of service, 14 members with Administrative Assistant to Deputy Com- described his fellow award recipients as 35 years, 14 members with 30 years, 65 missioner John Benanti; Betty Jackson, “a remarkable group of individuals.” members with 25 years and 234 members Principal Administrative Assistant in the He was also one of the 14 members with 20 years of service to the City. Audio/Visual Unit; and Regina Washing- who were praised for educational Among those recognized were Lenore ton, Personnel. achievement in the past year.
4 FDNYNEWS June 2009 Moving Up 15 Members Promoted to the Rank of Fire Captain
t was a proud day for 15 mem- bers of the fire service as they Iwere promoted to the rank of captain on May 28 at the Fire Acad- emy. “The Department appreciates the tremendous perseverance it took to get to today,” said Fire Commission- er Nicholas Scoppetta. “With every promotion ceremony our Depart- ment gets a little stronger, solidify- ing our position as the best in the world.” Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano added, “The job of captain is the toughest job in the Department, Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano stands with the newly promoted members at the Fire but it can be the most rewarding. And Academy. the dedication and commitment it takes to pass this [promotional exam] shows your resolve.” assigned to units throughout the city. feather in the cap of my career,” said The members, who represent more “Although it’s bittersweet to leave the Capt. August Orlando, Jr. than 245 years of experience, will be members [at Ladder 156], this is like a Tribute to a Hero Park Dedicated in Honor of Lt. John Martinson
ozens of firefighters will never be forgotten,” gathered at Staten said Fire Commissioner DIsland’s P.S. 55 on June Nicholas Scoppetta. 5, as the school’s Double Nickel Chief of Department Playground was dedicated to Salvatore Cassano added, honor Lt. John Martinson. “Children will play here for Lt. Martinson sustained fatal years to come and will injuries while fighting a two- remember him as a hero – alarm fire at the Ebbets Field not for how he died, but Houses in Brooklyn on Jan. 3, how he lived.” 2008. Public officials attending “Thank you for the honor, the ceremony, including acknowledgment and respect,” Council Member Vincent the Lieutenant’s wife, Jessica Ignizio, Council Member Martinson, said. “Now my chil- Iris Martinson (far right), Jessica Martinson and 3-year-old John James Oddo and State Sen- Patrick stand with Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, Chief of dren can tell everyone that this is ator Andrew Laza Department Salvatore Cassano and FDNY Chaplain Reverend their daddy’s park.” Stephen Harding unveil the plaque dedicating the park at P.S. 55 as announced during the cere- Ms. Martinson attended the the Lt. John H. Martinson Playground. mony that $1.5 million will ceremony with her two children, be spent to renovate the John Patrick, 3, and Catherine was killed. Firefighters from his firehouse playground in Lt. Martin- Grace, 1; as well as Lt. Martinson’s moth- completed the renovations. son’s honor. er, Iris. Jessica Martinson said she often “Through this, John Patrick and The park is near the home in which Lt. walked to the park with Lt. Martinson and Catherine Grace will learn who their Martinson was raised, as well as the home their son. daddy was,” said Iris Martinson. “This is he was renovating for his family when he “Here the memory of John Martinson a very special honor for us.”
FDNYNEWS 5 ViewPoint A Year of Water Rescues Lauded Firefighters Honored by Life Saving Benevolent Association
leven firefighters were hon- Firefighter Sullivan. “But I was just ored by the Life Saving doing my job.” EBenevolent Association dur- Firefighter John Rizzo, also of ing their annual awards ceremony at Marine 1, received an award for jump- the Seamen’s Church Institute in ing in and rescuing a man injured while Manhattan on April 14. swimming in the Hudson River on July Eight New York City police offi- 18, 2008. cers also were honored during the “It’s an honor to be recognized,” ceremony that recognized outstand- said Firefighter Rizzo. ing water rescues. Other firefighters honored in the “All of the recipients deserve ceremony were Battalion Chief Barry high praise for their valor,” said Fire Brandes of Battalion 41; Lt. Anthony Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. Smaldone, and Firefighters Thomas “We are grateful to the Life Saving Members of Ladder 161 receive their awards from Rev. Dolan, Stephen LaRosa, Andrew Mas- Benevolent Association for, each David Rider (right), President of the Lifesaving Benev- troberti, Carmine Pecoraro and Robert year, acknowledging their heroic olent Association. Scheer from Ladder 161; Firefighter acts and dedicated service.” Timothy Moynihan of Marine 1; and Marine 1 was awarded for a rescue of a The Rev. David Rider, President of the Firefighter Anthony Citera of Ladder 106. man in the Hudson River on Sept. 3, Lifesaving Benevolent Association, Each received a plaque marking their 2008. He entered the water on a tether and added, “These are 19 people who deserve award and a bronze bar to wear on their rescued a man struggling under a pier. our thanks and admiration.” uniforms. “It’s really nice to be honored,” said Firefighter Thomas Sullivan from Honoring A Hero Firefighter receives Firemark Award from Liberty Mutual
irefighter Charles Maloney of Lad- The members of Ladder 18 put the der 18 received a Firemark Award bucket of the truck to the window and Ffor Heroism from Liberty Mutual Firefighter Maloney tried to remove the on April 30 at the quarters of his Manhat- bars of the gate, with no success. tan firehouse. When the woman collapsed, he said, “I “This is humbling. I was very, very knew one way or another we were going surprised when they told me I’d receive to get her out of there.” So he broke the this,” he said. window over her head and slowly pulled Firefighter Maloney, a 30-year veteran her from above the gate. The opening was Firefighter Charles Maloney receives the of the FDNY, received the honor for a res- small and there was still glass around the Firemark Award from Liberty Mutual cue on March 22, 2008, when he helped window frame, and Firefighter Maloney Sales Representative Matt Morse. save two people trapped in an apartment shook his head remembering how badly fire along the FDR Drive. she was cut. The officer on duty that day, Lt. Todd “She must have needed 50 stitches,” “It was a team effort – like a Swiss Heaney, said he was impressed, but not he said. watch, for it to work, you need every surprised, by the seasoned firefighter’s When she was finally freed and placed part,” he said. “I’m happy this [award] intuition and skill. in the bucket, the Firefighter said she puts 18 Truck on the board, recognizing “He’s been doing this for 30 years,” he pointed to the window – she was a nurse’s the great work of the firefighters in the said. “He knew exactly what to do, before aide and the 90-year-old woman she house.” I could even tell him.” cared for was still inside. Lt. Gregory Prial and Firefighter John Firefighter Maloney said he and the Firefighter Maloney then returned to the Haseney from Ladder 43 also received a members of Ladder 18 saw a woman on window, crawled in and was able to Firemark Award for Heroism from Liber- the third floor, screaming and waving her quickly locate the woman in the small ty Mutual on May 18. They were honored hands over the child protection gates on room. Another firefighter then helped him for the rescue of a woman in East Harlem the window as the smoke poured out from pass her back through the window to the on March 3. behind her. safety of the bucket.
6 FDNYNEWS June 2009 Remembering Fire Patrolman Roma FDNY Pays Tribute to Member of Fire Patrol Killed on 9/11
The bronze plaque dedicated to Fire Patrolman Keith Roma, who was killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11. (L to R) Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano; Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta; Arnold Roma, father of Fire Patrolman Keith Roma; and Chris Gill, President of the National Board of Underwriters.
he FDNY honored members of the into the North Tower, helping people would remain at the scene to prevent loot- Fire Patrol lost in the line of duty, escape. ing. The Mutual Assistance Bag Compa- Tunveiling two plaques that paid “This is the greatest moment since the ny was a voluntary organization just as tribute its fallen members on May 13. most tragic thing that happened to [our the fire department was at the time. One of the plaques was dedicated for family],” said Mr. Roma, who also served In 1835, the Association of Fire Insur- Fire Patrolman Keith Roma, who was in the Patrol for two years. He described ance Companies took over the operation killed at the World Trade Center on Sept. his son as laid back and kind. “He would and employed four men at an annual 11, 2001. do anything for you.” salary of $250 each, making it the first “We are delighted to honor the mem- Chief of Department Salvatore Cas- paid fire service organization in New bers of the Fire Patrol and commemorate sano added, “These plaques recognize York City. the great work they did for the City,” said what the Patrol has done for us for the last Their duties were to attend to all fires Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta 200 years. There was always a bond occurring at night in the mercantile dis- during the ceremony at FDNY Headquar- between the members of the Fire Patrol trict. In 1858, a day force of two men was ters. and firefighters, and we will never forget appointed. Chris Gill, President of the National them.” The State Legislature granted a charter Board of Underwriters, added, “We to the New York Board of Fire Underwrit- appreciate the importance of this day [for About the Fire Patrol ers in 1867, giving them the authority to the FDNY].” The Fire Patrol was created to protect “organize a corps of men who were A wooden memorial plaque, listing the property from water damage during a fire employed to enter burning buildings and 32 members of the Patrol who were lost in or emergency. secure the property contained herein.” the line of duty since 1803, will be hung It’s history can traced back to 1803 All of the patrol’s quarters were owned at the Fire Academy. The Fire Patrol was when 63 merchants and residents in the and constructed by the Board of Fire disbanded in 2006. downtown area formed an organization Underwriters. Another bronze plaque, honoring Fire called the Mutual Assistance Bag Compa- The service was disbanded in 2006, Patrolman Roma, was presented to the ny. when three patrols were still in operation, Patrol member’s father, Arnold Roma. The members would respond to fires located in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The five-year member of the Fire Patrol and remove the building’s contents in was killed after making eight or nine trips bags to a safer location. One member
FDNYNEWS 7 ViewPoint June 2009 EMS WEEK 2009 Second Chance Brunch just 2 years old, Nicholas fell into a swim- ming pool while at a birthday party. Two The FDNY EMS Command celebrated th of the other party-goers performed CPR life at the 15 Annual Second Chance on the boy, restarting his pulse, but he was Brunch on May 19, reuniting paramedics, having difficulty breathing. EMTs and firefighters with the victims of EMTs David Goodman and Linda cardiac arrest whose lives they helped Avellino placed a mask over his face to save. pump air into his lungs as they made their “We’re all in awe of what you do each way to Staten Island University Hospital, day,” said Deputy Mayor Ed Skyler dur- and when they arrived at the facility, he ing the event at the Fire Academy. had regained consciousness. Tears of joy and embraces marked the “It was a very overwhelming experi- ceremony, which enabled victims to thank ence,” said EMT Goodman as he looked the paramedics and EMTs who saved at the active boy. “It holds a special place them. in my heart.” “This event today brings into focus the Nicholas’s mom, Samantha Grande, important work our EMS members do held her son and said, “It’s amazing they each day,” said Fire Commissioner Teams from Station 58 picked up the first place trophies for both ALS and BLS compe- Barbara Schroeder embraces Paramedic do this day in and day out. I’m so grate- Nicholas Scoppetta. “Because of the great titions Alex Lipsitt, the FDNY EMS member ful; it’s hard to put it into words.” work of our paramedics and EMTs, New saved her life when she went into car- Chief of EMS John Peruggia added the York is considered one of the safest cities also were required to determine whether “We prepared for this and we all work diac arrest in December 2008. event highlighted the difficult work mem- Members of the EMS Command outside in the world.” bers of the EMS Command do each day, or not a patient should be transported together every day, so once you’re in the NASDAQ building in Times Square Chief of Department Salvatore Cas- directly to a hospital that can perform a there and you start working, you just con- She took some aspirin as her son called noting, “We are there to help people in after ringing the closing bell on May 14. sano added, “The capabilities of our specialized procedure to open a heart centrate on what you do,” he said. 911. When Paramedic Lipsitt and his part- their time of need. Saving lives can be members in the field are tremendous.” stressful, but it’s rewarding.” blockage. Second place for the ALS competition Among the survivors was Barbara ner, Clifton Pennie, arrived, they began “This competition shows you are the went to members of Station 4 in Manhat- applying intravenous fluids and hooked Schroeder, who patted one of her res- EMS Competition best,” said Dr. David Prezant, Chief Med- tan (Paramedics Feliks Granovskiy, Man MS Week 2009 was filled with her to a heart monitor. cuers, Paramedic Alex Lipsitt, on the arm Outside a Brooklyn university, a pro- ical Officer for the Office of Medical Wai Law and William Meringolo) and events promoting public safety as she spoke to him. Moments later, she went into cardiac Affairs. third place went to members of Station 43 arrest. The members used a defibrillator fessor is worried about his wife, who is and celebrating the lifesaving On Dec. 15, 2008, the 62-year-old Many of the 27 competition partici- in Brooklyn (Paramedics Jane Corella, to shock her heart back to a normal being tended to by FDNY EMS members efforts of the more than 3,000 woman felt ill while at home with her son. after she complained of chest pains and pants said they felt it was a great way to Matt Jachyra and Stuart Weinstein). E rhythm and hooked her up to an electro- assess their skills and ability to think For BLS, second place went to the members of the FDNY’s Emergency went into cardiac arrest. cardiogram machine, which under pressure. members of Station 4 (EMTs Ziaotian Medical Service. Just steps away, other EMS members showed her heart blockage. “This was a challenging exercise and I Bao, Miguel Perez and Peter Molinelli) Celebrations kicked off on May 16, as Then, under a new FDNY pro- are identifying a hazardous substance and donning their Personal Protective Equip- think it really tested us,” said EMT and third went to members of Station 43 EMS members biked from Station 20 at tocol, they transported her Thomas Siciliano of Station 58, who was (EMTs Chad Ritorto, Christopher Russo directly to Downstate Medical ment as toxic smoke fills the area. Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx to Luckily, none of it was real. It was all team leader for the first place BLS team. and Robert Strafer). Center in Brooklyn, which is EMT Anthony Terranova agreed, not- All the winners received a cash prize Roanoke, Va., as part of the Annual equipped to perform a special- part of the 9th Annual EMS Competition National EMS Memorial Weekend. held in Metrotech Commons on May 21. ing that their training kicked in and they for use at their stations, donated by the ized procedure to open the worked as a team: “We overcame our FDNY Foundation. All the participants To commemorate the Week, the “We’re trying to evaluate how well our blockage. obstacles and worked together.” also received tools and equipment donat- Department hosted the annual Second “It feels wonderful to be members do their job and protect them- selves,” Chief of EMS John Peruggia As they recouperated from the 30 ed by various EMS groups. Chance Brunch and EMS Week Competi- here. My heart is jumping!” minute skills test, their teammate, P.J. During the event the Command also Ms. Schroeder said. said. “And they all performed incredibly tion. In addition, the Empire State Build- well.” Derosa, added, “I think this really shows unveiled a music video by Paramedic Paramedic Lipsitt smiled the city what we do every day.” Farooq Muhammad and former Para- ing was lit yellow, white and blue; mem- and said, “It’s so rewarding to The competition, sponsored by the bers of the FDNY’s EMS Command rang Office of Medical Affairs, scored teams First place winners for ALS also were medic Christopher Marquart (now a fire- see her happy and healthy from Station 58, including Lt. Michelle fighter at Engine 323), urging people to the NASDAQ closing bell, and EMS sta- now.” based on how well they performed a num- The Empire State Building, in partnership with the New Robbins and Paramedics Juan Cortes and call 9-1-1 in emergencies. Another survivor was 4- ber of tasks, including reading an electro- tions throughout the City hosted neigh- York City Fire Department, was illuminated yellow, Sean McGrath. Paramedic McGrath, a Actor Randolph Mantooth, star of the year-old Nicholas Grande. On cardiogram, dealing with faulty equip- borhood gatherings. white and blue for three nights starting May 15 in cele- first time competitor for the unit, said he 1970s television show Emergency! also June 10, 2007, when he was ment and ventilating a patient. Teams bration of EMS Week 2009. was not nervous beforehand. was on hand to congratulate the winners.
8 FDNYNEWS FDNYNEWS 9 ViewPoint New Leaders Learn from the Best Seventh FDNY Officers Management Institute Class Graduates
ixteen FDNY chiefs grad- issues such as the class 3 central alarm uated from the Fire Offi- system, safety, rehabilitation sector Scers Management Institute analysis and fire and EMS best prac- (FOMI) on May 1 during a cere- tices from around the world. mony at FDNY Headquarters. “I hope that now you will take the Established in 2002, FOMI step and be the change you want to see provides fire and EMS chiefs in the world,” said Joann Baney, Fac- with a customized curriculum of ulty Director of FOMI (Columbia). leadership and management “The work you do at the FDNY ele- training, which includes presen- vates us at Columbia.” tations by experts from the cor- FOMI is a six-month program porate community, government offered through Columbia Universi- and homeland security. ty’s Picker Center for Executive Edu- “So much of this course of Sixteen FDNY chiefs graduated from FOMI on May 1. cation. It is funded by the FDNY study is about leadership – and it Foundation and is taught at Jack proves leadership cannot only be taught, Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano Welch Executive Training Center in Cro- but also learned,” said First Deputy Com- added: “Our most valuable asset is you.” tonville, NY. missioner Frank Cruthers. “We are making As part of the course, chiefs created “This program has provided a great an investment in you, because you are the projects to enhance Department policy and opportunity for us,” Deputy Chief James future of this agency.” strategy. This year’s projects addressed Campbell said. Understanding Terror FDNY Members Graduate from West Point Counterterrorism Leadership Program
hirty-three members of fire and EMS service, who will the FDNY graduated share what they learned in the Tfrom the West Point course with members in the Counterterrorism Leadership field. Program on May 20. “The course offered an excel- The program, which is cele- lent background in terrorism and brating its fifth year, focuses on [terrorists’] motiviations,” said research in the field of terrorism, Battalion Chief Dean Koester, counterterrorism and weapons of who said he found the study of mass destruction. nuclear terrorism to be the most “This is one of the most inno- Students from the fifth West Point Counterterrorism Leadership interesting. vative programs in the nation Program gather with Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, Firefighter Raymond Pfeifer, available to first responders,” said Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano, Retired General John who works as an aide to Chief of Fire Commissioner Nicholas Abizaid, Lt. Colonel Reid Sawyer and Major Scott Taylor. Counterterrorism and Emer- Scoppetta during the graduation standing of the causes, ideologies and gency Preparedness Joseph ceremony at FDNY Headquarters. methods of terrorism. Pfeifer, was the first firefighter to graduate Retired General John Abizaid, Distin- The program also covered risks for, and from the program. guished Chair of the Combating Terrorism specific threats to, New York City and how “This was really an eye opener,” he said. Center, added, “It is an honor to work with current world events shape these threats on “The class puts you in the front lines, learn- the FDNY. The sacrifices you and your a daily basis. ing [the information] from the world’s Department have made are an inspiration to “This is a difficult course, but a worth- elite.” those of us who fight for our nation.” while course,” said Chief of Department Director of the Combating Terrorism During the four-month course, the Salvatore Cassano. “We want to make sure Center, Lt. Colonel Reid Sawyer, said he FDNY members studied works by political we’re as prepared as we can be for the next hoped the program enables FDNY mem- scientists, government officials, members attack.” bers to, “think differently about the enemy, of the armed forces and other experts in the The graduates included members of the think about the threats of tomorrow.” field of counterterrorism, to gain an under- 10 FDNYNEWS June 2009 New Lung, New Lease on Life Firefighter Who Received Lung Transplant Released from Hospital
earing a yellow surgical New York Presbyterian Hospital- mask, Lt. Martin Fullam Columbia Medical Center. “I’m so Wspeaks quietly and takes happy to see him go home today.” deep breaths every few words. He Lt. Fullam worked at Battalion looks feeble, but he says he’s the 6 when he retired in December happiest and healthiest he’s been 2008. During his 27-year career in years. with the FDNY, he also worked out The brave Fire Lieutenant was of Engine 14, and Ladders 87 and released from New York Presby- 111. He was one of the many terian Hospital-Columbia Univer- FDNY members who responded to sity Medical Center on April 29 the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, after receiving a lung transplant. 2001. “I truly think I’m the luckiest He was joined at the event by person in the world,” Lt. Fullam his wife, Patricia, and his daugh- said, as the crowd of firefighters Lt. Martin Fullam is cheered by firefighters from across the ters, Caroline and Emma (his and medical professionals cheered. city as he leaves New York Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia daughter, Kelly, is away at college). “It stinks I got sick, but this is one University Medical Center with his family. His brother, retired Fire Lt. David of the happiest times in my life. I Fullam, recalled a recent trip the just want to say ‘thank you’ to Doctors at the Hospital’s Center for Lung two made to a county fair, remem- everybody; this is not a road you take Disease and Transplantation transplanted a bering how his brother could barely walk. alone.” lung in the spring of 2009. He noted: “He’s still not the guy he once In 2005, he was diagnosed with “Thankfully he is a hearty guy who was, but everyone can see a huge difference polymyositis, an uncommon disease that responded well to treatment,” said Dr. in the man here today. This is a great day.” causes inflammation in a patient’s muscles. Matthew Bacchetta, a thoracic surgeon at Fire Safety Saves Three FDNY Honors Girls Who Saved Family from Fire after Fire Safety Demo isters Michele and Alyssa “It was the best lesson they ever Corley learned essential fire learned in school,” said Ms. Ssafety skills during a presen- Dixon. “They saved my life – all tation by the FDNY at their Staten our lives. I am so proud of them.” Island school, P.S. 26, on April 28. Michele, who is in the fourth Little did anyone know that this grade, said, “I was scared at first, knowledge would be put to the test but I did what we learned in class just hours later, when they had a that day and we got out safely.” fire in their home. Her sister Alyssa, a second The girls were able to help their grader, agreed and said she was grandmother, Debbie Dixon, to “so happy” to be honored by the safety during the emergency, and FDNY. because of their courage, Fire Com- The members of the FDNY Fire missioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Safety Education Unit who taught Chief of Department Salvatore Cas- Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Chief of the girls their life-saving skills in sano swore them in as honorary fire April returned for the ceremony, Department Salvatore Cassano swear in Michele (far right) chiefs on May 5. including Capt. Martin Cass and “This is a great example of the and Alyssa Corley as honorary fire chiefs. retired Firefighters Darrell Patter- effectiveness of fire safety educa- son and Ed Fitzpatrick. tion,” Commissioner Scoppetta said daughters in the room next to hers. The Unit also brought the Fire during the presentation in their school’s She said she was frantic and tried to grab Safety House and gave students more infor- auditorium. “After everything they learned shoes and other items before she left the mation on how to keep their homes fire that day, [Michele and Alyssa] took charge house. Yet the girls remained calm and told safe. and everyone got out of the home without her they had to leave the residence as “When you see a story like this, you injury. These girls get an A+ in fire safety.” quickly as possible and call 911. They led realize you really did make a difference,” At around 6 p.m. on April 28, Ms. Dixon her down the hallway toward the door, told said retired Firefighter Patterson, who has smelled smoke in her home in the Travis her to follow the wall and stay low – skills performed these demonstrations for six neighborhood of Staten Island and went in they had learned in the fire safety demon- years. “That’s how you really know you are search of her 7- and 9-year-old grand- stration at school that day. doing your job.”
FDNYNEWS 11 ViewPoint Firefighters Rescue Four from Fire in Queens
t was like a scene from a fast-moving action movie as firefighters from Lad- Ider 126 and Ladder 127 rescued four people from a fire in Jamaica, Queens, on April 20. “It was a joint effort and it feels good to know these people lived,” said Fire- fighter Jim Stewart from Ladder 126, an 11-year veteran. “Firefighters dream about a rescue like this their whole career.” At 1:11 a.m. a call was received for a fire on 144th Street, with reports of mul- tiple people trapped. Firefighter Stewart was the chauffeur Deputy Chief James DiDomenico tells reporters about the rescue of four civilians from an of Ladder 126, and had just set up the aer- early morning fire in Queens along with Firefighters Jim Stewart (front left), Anthony ial ladder when he received a transmis- Sodano (front right) and Stephen King (second row, far right). sion from Firefighter Stephen King (also from Ladder 126), asking for assistance to He positioned the semi-conscious man the third floor, so Firefighter Sodano rescue a man trapped on the third floor of between him and the ladder, and slowly returned to the attic and located two other the three-story home. and carefully walked him down. unconscious victims. Yet since the fire building had a bay In the meantime, Firefighter Anthony Firefighter Dan Hickey from Ladder window on the second floor and was Sodano from Ladder 126 was searching 126 helped him remove the first victim, spaced only three or four feet from the the second floor with Firefighter Michael and Lt. David Bengyak and Firefighter neighboring house, the firefighters had McNally of Ladder 127. Firefighter Michael Cullen from Ladder 127 trouble setting up the 24-foot portable Sodano said he heard Firefighter King’s removed the second. ladder. So the firefighters said they initial call for someone trapped in the “Although the fire was in the base- improvised, with Firefighter King using attic, and made his way up the steps to ment, [the house] had an open stairway, all his weight to keep the ladder steady at search for other victims. so it was like a deathtrap [in the attic],” a nearly 90-degree angle as Firefighter “There was zero visibility, but I could said Firefighter Sodano, an 8-year veteran Stewart climbed to the top. hear someone breathing, gurgling,” he of the FDNY. He said he smashed the window, but said. He located the unconscious man and EMS members treated all four victims by the time he was ready to help the man called for help to remove him. With assis- and transported them to area hospitals. onto the ladder, the victim had collapsed tance from Firefighter McNally, the pair The fire was placed under control at 1:38 inside. That’s when Firefighter Stewart carried him to the window above the a.m. said his adrenaline kicked in. porch on the second floor and adminis- “It’s the best feeling, knowing you “I reached across and was able to get tered air as they waited for the aerial lad- saved a life,” Firefighter Sodano said. to window sill and pull myself half way der. “When you’re there, it’s crazy, almost inside,” he said. “I felt his belt and just They then heard a radio transmission surreal, but when you see the victims pulled him out. It was acrobatic.” saying there were more people trapped on breathe, you breathe a sigh of relief.” Firefighters Rescue Man in Harlem River irefighters made an early morning Bridge and Fordham Road in the Bronx. Engine 43 and working at Ladder 59) tied rescue of a man in the Harlem River They located a man in the water off and climbed down to help him, pulled Fon May 13. approximately 200 yards past the bridge, the man to the ladder and helped him to “The members did fantastic job,” said clinging to a bulkhead. safety. Lt. Anthony Cordaro from Ladder 59. Firefighters from Ladder 59 and “You don’t really think about it until “They brought all the necessary tools, and Engine 43 lowered a 24-foot ladder to the later, but it’s a good feeling,” Firefighter operated quickly and decisively in treach- bulkhead, yet since the man was suffering Farrell said. erous conditions.” from hypothermia and possible shock, he The man was treated at the scene for At approximately 3 a.m. they were was unable to climb the ladder on his own. hypothermia and later transported to St. called to the waters near the 207th Street Firefighter Mike Farrell (assigned to Barnabas Medical Center.
12 FDNYNEWS June 2009 Hanging by a Foot FDNY Members Rescue Boy Suspended by Elevator 7-year-old boy in the Bronx expe- floor to assess the boy’s foot as members the arms of Paramedic Nelson. rienced a real-life nightmare on from Engine 94 arrived. “I was so surprised when I saw his foot AMay 11, when his foot became Firefighters Casey Reilly and Joseph fly down,” Firefighter Klauck said. trapped between an elevator car and the March stayed with Paramedic Nelson, to Paramedic Nelson said the boy “kept shaft, suspending him between the second make sure he did not fall into the shaft as saying, ‘I want to go home.’ He said his and third floors. he was helping the boy. Lt. Raymond leg didn’t hurt.” “I could finish my career and never see Arcos walked between the second and The boy was transported to Lincoln anything remotely like this again,” said third floors to oversee the job and Fire- Medical and Mental Health Center with a Paramedic Moses Nelson. fighter Eric Klauck went to the third floor fractured tibia and a few cuts and bruises. FDNY members were called to an to help remove the boy. When Paramedic Nelson visited him the apartment building on Hunts Point “I was shocked when we got there,” next morning, the boy was sitting up and Avenue in the Bronx at around 4:45 p.m. said Firefighter Klauck. “There’s always watching cartoons – and greeted his res- Parmedics Nelson and Jason Saffon more tension when you need to rescue a cuer with a big hug. were the first to arrive. They said when child.” The paramedic said he was thrilled they looked up the elevator shaft from the Soon firefighters from Ladder 48 everything worked so smoothly during second floor, they saw the boy’s head and arrived with airbags that would be used to the operation. arms dangling from the corner of the ele- distance the elevator from the boy’s foot. “There was flawless communication vator. Lt. Robert Hauryluck and Firefighters there and everyone did a great job,” he The boy was scared, so Paramedic Nel- Dominick Carone, William Mulhall, said. “An hour after that job I was still son comforted him and spoke to him in Joseph Mondi and Michael Waterman trembling. There are few jobs that get my Spanish. (assigned to Engine 94) went to the third heart pumping and make me think, ‘Wow, “I asked how old he was, if he was hurt floor as Paramedic Saffon returned to the I did that.’” – anything to take his mind off it,” Para- second floor to help his partner. Firefighter Klauck echoed the senti- medic Nelson said. “I didn’t know what I When everyone was ready, Firefighter ments: “We have to work together or was going to do, I just knew I had to get Klauck said they inserted the airbag in the nothing gets accomplished. We all just his mind off the horrific thing that was space and inflated it slowly. The elevator kicked into work mode, we wanted to get happening to him.” moved less than an inch and the boy’s foot the boy out quickly and safely.” Paramedic Saffon went to the third slid out of the space and he dropped into FDNY Members Rescue Man Trapped Under Train ust 10 minutes before a gas explosion feur to call dispatch about turning off moved him the length of the subway car leveled a house in Floral Park, power on the tracks. to the front of the train where they were JQueens on April 24, firefighters from He then assigned one firefighter to met by members of FDNY EMS – includ- Ladder 116 were called to another major watch the train’s conductor and the con- ing EMS Lt. James Furlong, Rescue Para- emergency, a man trapped under a train at trols to ensure the train would not move. medics Kimberley Marshall and Mario Northern Boulevard and 36th Street in Then, before they knew the track power Ramirez, and EMTs Pedro Acosta and Long Island City. was off, he and Firefighters Rich LaRoc- Dennis Rehberger. “It’s not something I have ever seen ca and Terence Drew jumped onto the The EMS members then packaged the before, and I’ve been on the job 20 tracks. victim and transported him to Bellevue years,” said Lt. William Kelly from Lad- “It was incredible to see my guys Hospital. der 116. “It really was incredible. It was jump down there like that, without hesi- “They were very efficient,” said Lt. emotional, draining and there was a lot of tation,” said Lt. Kelly. “It really was kind Furlong. “It was a tough job, but they got adrenaline involved. ” of moving.” it done.” Firefighters received the call for a per- They crawled on their hands and knees Lt. Kelly credited their extensive train- son under a train at 4:41 p.m. And when about three quarters of the way under the ing for why everything worked so well: they arrived at the station, people were first car and located the person, who had “It sounds cliché, but since we train for frantically waving firefighters to the R received major trauma, including two many different situations like this, at a train platform. broken legs and severe lacerations to the certain point you just know what you’re The victim was under the first car of head and neck. Yet the firefighters said supposed to do without thinking.” the train, and Lt. Kelly said when he they were happy to find the victim was Yet there was no time for the members shined his flashlight in the space between still alive and semi-conscious. to discuss the rescue afterwards; after the the platform and the train, he could see “We knew time was a critical factor in train emergency, they were immediately the man and a lot of blood. saving this guys life,” Lt. Kelly said. sent to the scene of the gas explosion in Lt. Kelly said he talked to members of They put him in a cervical collar and Floral Park. the MTA and asked the company chauf- on a backboard. They then carefully
FDNYNEWS 13 ViewPoint It's a Girl! FDNY Members Deliver Baby in Manhattan asai Victoria Webb made a very sur- EMTs said they quickly real- prising and dramatic debut in Harlem ized they would not have time Jon May 6. The baby girl was delivered to transport Ms. Powell to the at home by FDNY firefighters and EMTs. hospital, so Firefighter Down- And just hours later, the newborn, her ing assisted the new mother parents and the FDNY members were with her delivery in the apart- reunited in the maternity ward at Metro- ment. EMT Gary Tomas then politan Hospital Center. clamped the cord and EMT Fancy Powell, holding her newborn Jasai, and “Once we got there and we saw mom Andrew Huyett suctioned. Daquan Webb, are surrounded by the FDNY members was ready to go, we knew we had to get “All our training came into who delivered her baby in Harlem. (L to R in uniform) our game on,” said Firefighter Edwin place and everything went really EMT Andrew Huyett, FF Edwin Dowling, FF Chris Dowling from Engine 35. “I didn’t have smoothly,” said EMT Huyett. Schickler, FF Jermaine Martin, Lt. Brian Larkin and time to think, just react.” Firefighter Dowling present- FF William Vanname. Members received the call for a woman ed Jasai with a tiny Engine 35 in labor at 10:46 p.m. When they arrived, t-shirt and flowers. The grateful Mother’s Day. they saw a 20-year-old pregnant woman, mother and father, Dequan Webb, thanked “Everything happened so quickly, I was Fancy Powell, lying on the couch and in a the FDNY members for their assistance nervous and in a whole lot of pain,” Ms. great deal of pain. and proudly showed off their 7 pound, 9 Powell joked. “I guess she just didn’t want Firefighters from Engine 35 and the ounce, bundle of joy – who was due on to wait until May 10.” To the Rescue Bronx Firefighter Saves Family from Fire irefighter Patrick Mataraza from Ladder 33 rescued three people Ffrom an early morning fire in the Bronx on April 21. “We drill all the time for things like this, but you’re never really prepared for when it actually happens,” said Firefight- er Mataraza, a six-year veteran of the FDNY. “But the adrenaline just kicks in.” Firefighters were called at 4:57 a.m. for a fire on Davidson Avenue, with reports of people trapped. When firefighters arrived, they saw people running from the building to the Firefighters Patrick Mataraza (bottom row, far right) and Jay Prete (top row, far street and there were reports one person right) with members from Engine 75 and Ladder 33 in front of their rigs. jumped from a second-floor window. Firefighter Mataraza said he also saw a on the ladder, but since he was a bit com- position the tower ladder bucket and couple and their young adult son standing bative, Firefighter Mataraza said he was remove them to safety. at a second floor window with smoke worried the young man would fall if he The all-hands fire was brought under pouring out around them. climbed down the ladder so he moved control at 5:48 a.m. The scene was all the more poignant him back to the window. “This is what we get paid to do,” said for the firefighter when he realized the He guided the mother to the fire escape Firefighter Mataraza about his first res- young man has Down Syndrome, like his and she climbed down the rails to safety, cue. “We knew what we had to do and we own 5-year-old son. giving the father and son more room to did it.” Since the smoke was so intense, the breathe at the window. Yet he added that he is amazed at the parents started dangling their son out the He then coaxed the young man and his connection he made between this family window as Firefighter Mataraza set up the father to the fire escape and held them and his own, thoughtfully saying, “It gets portable ladder. there with the help of Firefighter Jay Prete more overwhelming the more I think He was able to stabilize the young man from Engine 48 until they were able to about it.”
14 FDNYNEWS June 2009 Firefighters Rescue Disabled Man in the Bronx irefighters from Ladder 59 saved the day for a Bronx man on June 5, Frescuing him from a smoky fire. “Rescues like this make the job worth- while,” said Lt. Joseph Ginley. “That’s why we’re here. We come to work to make a difference, and this time it worked out.” Firefighters were called to an apart- ment building on Buchanan Place at 3:03 a.m. When they arrived, firefighters said they saw fire on the second and third floors. Firefighters from Ladder 59 went to the floor above the fire and forced open the door. Lt. Ginley began his search, but Members of Ladder 59, who rescued a dis- said he had trouble due to the thick, black abled man from a Bronx fire. (L to R) Fire- smoke and the apartment’s clutter. fighter Nicholas Brisotti, Lt. Joseph Gin- Firefighters Rescue As he climbed over several bicycles, a ley, Firefighter Thomas O'Shea, Firefight- mattress, piles of books and a television, er David Daly and Firefighter Cody a Man from the Lt. Ginley found an unconscious man sit- Baker. ting about halfway through the apartment. Gowanus Canal The man was moaning, but disabled, so fighter met the Lieutenant near the front Firefighters from Engine 239 res- Lt. Ginley radioed for help. door and the pair carried the man down cued a man from a car sinking in the “Your adrenaline is really flowing and the stairs to waiting EMS members, who Gowanus Canal on May 9. you hope you can get help quickly,” he The members were called to the transported him to Bronx Municipal Hos- said. scene at Bond and Degraw Streets in pital Center with smoke inhalation. As he pulled the man to the front door, Brooklyn at 12:32 a.m. The vehicle “This was my first save like this,” said Firefighter David Daly heard the Lieu- had crashed through the guard rail and Firefighter Daly. “It was a huge rush and tenant’s call for assistance while he was fallen into the canal about 40 feet from I’m just happy we got him out in time.” operating outside on a ladder. The Fire- the shore. Upon arrival, firefighters from Engine 239 saw a man submerged up to his neck in the water and waving for Bravest Play Finest Role help. Firefighter Richard Staiti removed Firefighters Apprehend Cell Phone Robbers in Manhattan his bunker coat and was secured to a tether by Firefighter Darrell Couch, irefighters Jason Porzse from Engine intersection of Varick and Charlton streets. who then entered the water up to his F24 and Adam Karabuber from Ladder Lt. Richard Quinn from Engine 24 waist to ensure Firefighter Staiti was 5 thought on their feet, chasing and appre- notified police as he and the other mem- not pulled away by the strong current. hending a cell phone thief in Manhattan on bers followed on the apparatus. Wearing his bunker pants, but no May 29. While they waited for police, the per- diving gear, Firefighter Staiti swam to “It was just kind of reaction; we saw petrator tried to pass cell phones to anoth- the victim and pulled him to shore. someone who needed help and went to er man who claimed to be his brother. The Once they reached safety, the man indicated there were other victims in help him,” said Firefighter Porzse. firefighters blocked the hand off and the car, so Firefighter Staiti returned to At around 6 p.m. firefighters were police arrested both men in connection the car, broke a window and conduct- standing outside their quarters in Green- with the theft. ed a search of the vehicle and sur- wich Village when they heard someone Police told the firefighters these men rounding area. yelling for help. may be responsible for a string of cell Members of Squad 1 then arrived A witness pointed out a man who had phone robberies in the neighborhood. to assist with the search, which turned just stolen someone’s cell phone. “It’s a great feeling to do something for up negative. Firefighters Porzsce and Karabuber the community that does a lot for us,” said This was the first water rescue for didn’t hesitate, chasing the man four Firefighter Karabuber, a former police Firefighters Staiti and Couch. blocks and apprehending him near the officer. “It’s nice to give back.”
FDNYNEWS 15 ViewPoint
FDNY Medal Day 2009 Another poignant moment in the ceremony occurred when (Continued from page 1) EMT Adam Ruiz, brother of the late EMT Jason Ruiz, posthu- Two medals were presented to mem- mously accepted the Jack Pintchik bers who responded to the crane collapse Medal on behalf of his brother, in Manhattan on March 15, 2008. The first along with his brother’s partner, went to Dr. Dario Gonzalez, EMS Lt. EMT Juan Rios. EMTs Ruiz and Louis Cook, and Rescue Paramedics Rios rescued a woman from the Marco Girao and Juan Henriquez, who subway tracks in Brooklyn on applied crush medicine to two victims July 15, 2008. while they were still trapped under debris, Paramedic Juan Lebron, who saving their lives. received the Lieutenant Kirby Members of Ladder 4 – Lt. Christopher McElhearn Medal along with King and Firefighters Edward Coyle, EMTs Isaiah Baker and Rostantin Louis Esposito, Patrick Moore, Daniel Kruczowy for rescuing a woman Squire and George Young – also were on the subway tracks in Brooklyn awarded for their work at the collapse, on Oct. 23, 2008, said he was receiving the first-ever Company of the overwhelmed to receive a medal Year World Trade Center Memorial in this year’s ceremony. Medal. The award was created by families “I thought this would be a sim- of 9/11 victims to honor the 343 FDNY ple ceremony, but this is really members who were killed at the World special,” he said, smiling. Trade Center. His words were echoed by Fire- The medal recipients listen intently during the Medal Day “To know we would be the first com- fighter Charles Botti of Squad 18, ceremony at Pace University auditorium. Fifty-one mem- pany to receive this medal was special,” who won this year’s Hugh Bonner bers and four companies were presented with 48 medals said Lt. King. Medal, the first for his company. honoring heroism. Firefighter Coyle added, “This is a On Jan. 14, 2008, he and other fire- tremendous honor.” fighters performed a high-angle rescue to VIEW Rosemary Cain, mother of Firefighter save the life of a construction worker in P OINT George Cain who made the Supreme Sac- Manhattan. JUNE 2009 rifice on Sept. 11, 2001, said although the “Never in my wildest dreams did I NEWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE DEPARTMENT day was emotional, “it’s also a great day think I’d receive a medal,” he said, stand- because this medal means the men and ing with several members of his family FIRE DEPARTMENT women killed on 9/11 will always be hon- after the ceremony. “It was a great, great CITY OF NEW YORK ored.” 9 METROTECH CENTER day.” BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201
Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor, City of New York Nicholas Scoppetta, NYC Fire Commissioner FRANCIS X. GRIBBON DEPUTY COMMISSIONER
S. PAUL ANTONELLI PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR
EMILY RAHIMI EDITOR
THOMAS ITTYCHERIA GRAPHICS / LAYOUT
SFM RALPH BERNARD, RANDY BARRON, DAVID WARREN, RETIRED EMT ROBERT DOMINGO, LILLI ALBIN PHOTOS ViewPoint is published entirely in-house by the FDNY Office of Public Information/Publications FDNY 1865-2009 A 145 YEAR HISTORY Surrounded by banners celebrating the medal winners, firefighters cheer for one of the recipients OF COMMITMENT, COURAGE & COMPASSION
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