SEPTEMBER 2007

VIEW FROM Metro Tech P OINT 9 T HE N EWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE D EPARTMENT 5-5-5-5 Firefighters Graffagnino and Beddia killed in the line of duty

he FDNY suffered a tragic loss on August 18 as Firefighters Joseph Graffagnino of Ladder 5 and TRobert Beddia of Engine 24 made the Supreme Sacrifice battling a seven- alarm fire at the building in lower overlooking the . “They died doing what they loved,” said Mayor . “They acted with courage and bravery.” Firefighter Graffagnino was an eight- year veteran of the FDNY, appointed on May 9, 1999. Firefighter Beddia was a 23- year veteran, appointed on October 24, Firefighter Robert Beddia Firefighter Joseph Graffagnino 1983. Engine Company 24 Ladder Company 5 “The City will remember them as two men who loved their families, loved their was reported at 3:36 p.m. and was deemed Engine 284 in Brooklyn and many said that job and who stuck together to the end,” said under control at 10:40 p.m. he knew from a young age that he wanted Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. Fire marshals determined the cause of to be a firefighter. The two firefighters became trapped on the blaze to be careless smoking. “He died doing what he believed in – the 14th floor of the building at 130 Liber- “We have lost two men who were not what he had wanted to do since he was a ty Street, which is undergoing demolition only brave, but our best citizens,” said Gov- child,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “And while and was covered in hazmat abatement after ernor . his life was short, he won the admiration of being damaged on 9/11. They suffered This is the second time this year the this City.” severe smoke inhalation and were taken to FDNY has suffered a line-of-duty tragedy. He also was remembered as a family NY Downtown Hosptial in cardiac arrest On June 21, 2007, Firefighter Daniel F. Puj- man, proud of his wife, Linda, and two where they succumbed to their injuries. dak of Ladder Company 146 died when he children, Mia, 4, and Joseph, 9 months, and More than 275 firefighters and 70 units fell from the roof of a building in Brooklyn a kind man who would shovel sidewalks responded to the seven-alarm fire, which while battling an all-hands fire. for his neighbors in the winter. Funeral for Firefighter Graffagnino “Let us hold Joseph up as an example of Thousands of firefighters gathered at how we should live our lives with valor and IN THIS ISSUE St. Ephrem’s Church in Dyker Heights, courage but also with compassion,” said Brooklyn on August 23 to remember 33- Governor Spitzer. ❏ Commissioner’s Message Page 2 year-old Firefighter Graffagnino, who Commissioner Scoppetta added: was remembered as the quintessential “Joseph was a good man, an important firefighter. man. His neighborhood was the foundation ❏ FDNY News Pages 3-10,12 “He’s the kind of firefighter every offi- for the two most important things in his life cer would want in his or her company,” – his family and the Fire Department.” said Captain Patrick McNally of Ladder 5. Firefighter Graffagnino’s family mem- ❏ Profile of the Month Page 11 “I will always miss Joey G. and our fire- bers said they were overwhelmed by the house will never be the same.” outpouring of support they have received His childhood home backed up to (Continued on page 12) FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007

Investigation of the 130 Liberty Street Fire Study Regarding he Department suffered a devastating blow on August 18 WTC Medical Monitoring as two firefighters – Joseph Graffagnino and Robert Bed- Program to be Released Tdia – made the Supreme Sacrifice while battling a seven- alarm fire in the former Deutsche Bank building. he Department this month is releasing Every member working at the fire did an extraordinary job a comprehensive study on the under the most adverse conditions and the entire Department TFDNY’s World Trade Center Medical commends your efforts. Monitoring and Treatment Program which Commissioner’s Yet there are many questions concerning this fire and the has tracked the mental and physical health building - which was under demolition and abatement of haz- of our members since the attacks on Sept. Message ardous substances - that must be addressed. The Manhattan Dis- 11, 2001. trict Attorney’s Office is looking into all aspects of the tragedy Every active member, and all those who are retired and have and we are assisting them with their thorough investigation. We participated in the program, will receive a copy of this ground- will also be conducting our own administrative review and will breaking report. It details the short- and long-term health effects on assist the state Attorney General’s office as they conduct their thousands of FDNY members who responded to the World Trade investigation. Center and participated in the largest emergency rescue operation Our Safety Command is looking into the circumstances that the world has ever seen. These medical findings are a critical step led to the deaths of these firefighters. Our Bureau of Fire Investi- in evaluating the enormous impact of 9/11 on our membership and gation is looking at the cause of the fire, and marshals also are determining how we can best treat those affected. working with the DA’s office on its investigation. In addition, we Just four weeks after the attacks, Chief Medical Officers Dr. will conduct an administrative review concerning what actions Kerry Kelly and Dr. David Prezant, who both responded to the were taken – or not taken – by Department personnel at the build- World Trade Center on 9/11, developed a medical program that ing prior to the fire. This will focus on why there were no inspec- would evaluate, treat and monitor the effects of the tragedy. They tions during several months of demolition work despite our regu- immediately started performing screenings of our firefighters and lations that call for them every 15 days. EMS members – including medical examinations and detailed Pending the outcome of the investigation regarding no inspec- surveys – and providing necessary treatment. tions, I felt it was prudent to detail to headquarters three officers FDNY physicians and other medical professionals from the who are responsible for making sure these inspections get done. Bureau of Health Services (BHS) continue to improve and expand No disciplinary charges have been filed against these officers, upon the program that since has become a nationwide model in and we will wait for the investigation to be completed before any evaluating the effects of the disaster and providing services to such actions are considered. As to why inspections weren’t done, those affected. again, we’ll await the outcome of the investigation – and as I’ve Five years later, our dedicated BHS medical professionals con- said several times before, we’ll follow the investigation wherev- tinue to monitor the health of our first responders and offer the er it leads. best treatment possible. The FDNY was the first government Additionally, I’ve determined several actions must be taken agency to chronicle the health of first responders on 9/11, and so immediately as the investigation proceeds. far, nearly 14,300 FDNY members have participated in the pro- First, I have directed deputy chiefs in our nine divisions to gram. The quick and unprecedented response by BHS was essen- order surveillance by fire units of all buildings under construc- tial in helping us, as well as the City and the country, understand tion/demolition in their respective administrative areas. These the long-lasting impacts of that horrible day. regular inspections will ensure these structures will be safe for I am confident that the report will answer many questions our our personnel to operate in the event of a fire or emergency. members may have about the impact of 9/11. It essentially proves Divisions have also been ordered to review all existing pre-fire what we have assumed for some time – the effects of exposure to plans in their respective administrative areas, and to have units the World Trade Center site are extensive and far-reaching. T he and battalions canvass their districts for any potential structures best way to honor the heroism displayed on 9/11 is to accurately that might require the creation of such plans. Borough command- record and analyze the health effects of those heroic acts. Every ers also are ordered to oversee and coordinate all field fire inspec- first responder deserves no less. tion activities in their respective boroughs. I commend Drs. Kelly and Prezant and the BHS staff for their We have also started a comprehensive review of the Depart- commitment to this important project. Their thoughtful develop- ment’s AFID program – with an emphasis on ensuring accounta- ment of this program and their pledge to provide the best medical bility at all levels and making recommendations to strengthen and assistance possible will benefit our members for many years to improve the quality and frequency of inspections by field units. come. These steps are appropriate and necessary so that we under- stand the truth about what occurred, and so that we can prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again.

2 COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Two Heroes, One Year Later Plaques dedicated in memory of Lt. Carpluk and Firefighter Reilly in the Bronx

solomn tribute recalled a sad day in 2006 when a fire in the Bronx Atook the lives of a senior man and a proby. Two plaques were dedicated in honor of Lieutenant Howard Carpluk of Engine 42 and Probationary Firefighter Michael Reilly of Engine 75 on August 27, the one year anniversary of the devastating fire that took their lives. “These two firefighters were gentle- men, good neighbors, people who would do anything to help others,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg. “They put them- selves in harm’s way to keep us safe.” Firefighters, family and friends filled the quarters of Engine 75 to honor the two firefighters who were killed while battling a three-alarm fire at 1575 Walton Ave., a one-story 99-cent store near the Grand Concourse. FDNY units had entered the building in a search for fire and victims when a collapse occurred, fatally injuring the firefighters. “This day is to remind us of the courage of Lt. Carpluk and Firefighter Reilly,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “Our admiration for them will stay bright and constant.” Among those attending the somber ceremony were Lt. Carpluk’s wife, Debra, his daughter Paige and his son Bradley, along with many other family and friends. “Howie was a purposeful and serious man – and I was always proud to call him my friend and colleague,” said Captain Stephen Wall of Engine 42. Firefighter Reilly’s parents, Monica and Michael, his brother Kevin and sister Erin, also attended the ceremony. They were surrounded by members of the U.S. Marine Corps, for which Firefighter Reil- ly served as a Sergeant during a tour of (Top) Michael and Monica Reilly and (Below) Debra Carpluk and her children, Bradley duty in Iraq, and many of his former com- and Paige, attend the plaque dedication for Lieutenant Howard Carpluk and Firefighter rades from the Ramsey (NJ) Rescue Michael Reilly at Engine 75 on August 27. Squad, Ramsey Fire Department and Stratford (CT) Fire Department. Firefighter Reilly’s plaque will hang in “These plaques ensure that we will “He was a great firefighter who always the quarters of Engine 75, where he uphold the pledge we make to all fire- wanted to be where the action was,” said worked for eight weeks as a proby, and fighters – that we will never forget them Battalion Chief Robert Alfieri, who for- Lt. Carpluk’s will hang at his firehouse, or their families,” said Chief of Depart- merly served as captain of Engine 75. Engine 42. ment Salvatore Cassano.

FDNYNEWS 3 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Bravery and Compassion 265 probationary firefighters graduate from the Fire Academy

t was standing room only as 265 proba- tionary firefighters joined the ranks on IJuly 31. “The Fire Department runs through your blood,” said Mayor Michael Bloomberg during the ceremony at Queens College. “The paths that led you here are different, but you made the same bold, courageous pledge to protect the citizens of New York, and for that we are grateful.” The graduates were the first to complete an 18-week training program at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island, receiving five additional weeks of training in the unprecedented expansion of the firefighter school. (The class that starts in August will spend 23 weeks in training.) “You are joining the greatest fire department in the world and you are already among the best trained,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “Yet you are still learning. Pay attention, learn 265 probationary firefighters graduate from the Academy during a ceremony at Brook- from the best and you will become the lyn College on July 31. best.” The group included more than 60 mem- as part of Operation bers who are following in the footsteps of Iraqi Freedom. family on the job, including Probationary The class valedic- Firefighter Stuart Ingram, whose father is torian was Probation- Battalion Chief Robert Ingram of the ary Firefighter Sean FDNY Center for Terrorism and Disaster Denigris, the saluta- Preparedness. torian was Probation- Before joining the Department, Proba- ary Firefighter tionary Firefighter Ingram served as an Michael Padula and NYPD police officer. He made headlines the Physical Fitness when he arrested a man who stabbed him Award was given to in the chest. His life was spared when the Probationary Fire- knife struck the police shield on his uni- figher Recordo form. Demetrius. Also among the graduates were three “We are what we probies who have family members who repeatedly do, excel- Probationary firefighters wore pink ribbons in support of Lt. died in the line of duty, including Proba- lence is not an act it’s James Brennan's family (executive officer at the Academy). His tionary Firefighters Christopher Russel, a habit,” said Proba- wife was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. David Levens and Daniel Sullivan. tionary Firefighter Denigris. “Demand “This job requires a certain kind of per- While at the Rock, the class also raised son,” said Chief of Department Salvatore excellence and you will get it.” Yet beyond their bravery and commit- money for the family of Lt. James Bren- Cassano. “You’re held to a higher stan- nan, executive officer at the Academy, dard. And what you learn in the Fire ment, the class was lauded for their kind- ness. The group took part in the Wounded whose wife was recently diagnosed with Department will stay with you the rest of breast cancer. your life.” Warriors bike race, volunteered to help eld- erly hospital patients and developed a In a show of support, all of the proba- Also graduating were 19 veterans of the tionary firefighters wore pink ribbons dur- U.S. military, four of whom served in Iraq community garden at a nursing home in the Bronx. ing the graduation ceremony.

4 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 FDNY Family 42 fire officers promoted in enthusiastic ceremony

t was a day to celebrate generations of Icommitment to the FDNY. Fire promotions on August 16 includ- ed two assistant chiefs, one deputy assis- tant chief, 15 lieutenants and 24 fire mar- shals. “You are all the future of the FDNY,” Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta told the promoted members during the ceremony at the Fire Academy. “You are leadership. You inherit the history and legacy of this job.” Hundreds of firefighters, family and friends filled the field house for the cere- mony, many climbing the fire escapes to get a good view. When Queens Borough Commander, Assistant Chief John Acerno, was sworn into his new rank, the crowd erupted into Newly promoted Fire Marshal Josef Pruden (left) was promoted from the same fire- cheers – including his son, Firefighter house as his father, retired firefighter Edward Pruden. Brian Acerno of Rescue 1. Chief Acerno noted that his family ties to the FDNY run deep, father also served as a battalion battalion chief in the same ceremony in deserve it.” chief in Manhattan. 1995. Newly promoted Fire Marshal Josef Also promoted were Lieutenants “It’s a hard road and I know you have Pruden was elevated from the same fire- Robert Torrey and John Keenan whose waited a long time to get here,” said Chief house that his father, Edward Pruden, namesake fathers too were promoted to of Department Salvatore Cassano. “You worked as a firefighter before he retired in 1996. “As I kid I went to the firehouse and it was great to follow in his footsteps,” said Fire Marshal Pruden. “But it wasn’t easy … he had a great reputation.” Among the other high-ranking chiefs promoted in the ceremony were Assistant Chief John Coloe who is head of Fire Communications, and Deputy Assistant Chief Raymond Goldbach, who heads the Bureau of Personnel.

DO YOU HAVE A GREAT STORY TO Lt. Dan Van: Actor Gary Sinise donated a van to the FDNY Family Transport Foun- SHARE? dation on August 10, while attending a Cyclones Game at KeySpan Park in Brook- HOW ABOUT lyn. The following evening the Lt. Dan Band - featuring Sinise - played a concert at AN UPCOMING EVENT? Brooklyn College to raise funds for the Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance at KeySpan Park. The Wall pays tribute to first responders from Brooklyn who made the Supreme EMAIL THE VIEWPOINT AT Sacrifice on 9/11. [email protected].

FDNYNEWS 5 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Quick-Thinking Firefighters Save Woman in Bronx irefighters valiantly rescued a forcible-entry tools to open the woman’s trapped woman after they spotted apartment door. Lt. Joseph J. Lowney, Jr. Fher flailing arms through a child- of Ladder 47, searched the apartment and proof window of her burning apartment found the semi-conscious woman on July 21. hunched near the bedroom window. About 7:45 a.m., firefighters respond- “Everyone [working] at the fire ed to an all-hands fire on the 11th floor of deserves credit,” said Lt. Lowney about 2050 Seward Avenue, a 12-story, brick the rescue. “We do things as a team and apartment building in the Hunts Point sec- this was a perfect team play.” tion of the Bronx. The woman was transported to Jacobi Firefighters saw the 56-year-old Hospital for non-life-threatening smoke woman’s desperate waves through the inhalation. Firefighter Stiebel was also child gate of an 11th floor bedroom win- transported to Jacobi Hospital for minor dow and relayed the message to other injury to his left hand. members inside. The fire was under control shortly Firefighters from Ladder 54 used before 8:30 a.m. Lt. Joseph Lowney, Jr. of Ladder 47 Three Children Rescued in Brooklyn Fire s the steam pipe explosion was could not escape through the burglar bars “When there are kids involved in a res- roaring in Midtown Manhattan on on the rear windows. cue feels good,” said Firefighter Diorio. AJuly 18, firefighters bravely saved After entering through the front of the The 2-year-old girl, 4-year-old girl and two girls and a teenage boy from a Brook- residence and searching for about two 16-year-old boy were transported to lyn fire. minutes, Firefighter Salvatore Diorio of Kings County Hospital for non-life- Members responded to an all-hands Ladder 102 located the children. Simulta- threatening burns. Firefighter Hassell fire at a two-story, private dwelling on neously Firefighter Andrew Hassell of and three others were taken to Long Siegel Street in East Williamsburg. Ladder 102 removed the burglar bars Island College Hospital for minor The fire had started in the front of a from outside the rear window, providing injuries. first-floor apartment and the children an escape.

Stormy Tour: Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Assistant Chief Thomas Haring tour the areas damaged by the destructive storms on August 8. More than 800 firefighters and EMS members responded to emergencies throughout the five boroughs caused by high winds and heavy rains, including numerous reports of flooding and downed wires. Firefight- ers also assessed structural damage to more than 40 buildings citywide. EMS members transported five people in Brooklyn for storm-related injuries, including a 40-year-old woman who suf- fered a fractured leg after being struck by a falling tree limb. More than 240 emergency calls were answered between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.

6 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Firefighters Rescue Two From Bodega Fire irefighters rescued two workers section of the Bronx. The fire, which store overnight when the fire started. Lt. from a fire in a Bronx bodega on started in the front of the store, caused a Sean Genovese and Firefighter Steven FJuly 27. heavy smoke condition throughout the Gillespie, both from Squad 41, found the At 4:24 a.m., firefighters responded to location. unconscious workers lying next to each an all-hands fire at 1225 Fulton Avenue, a Two workers, who are related to the other inside a beverage cooler. one-story brick building in the Morrisania store owner, had locked themselves in the Lt. Genovese, a 20-year veteran, and Firefighter Gillespie, a 13-year veteran, squeezed through a two-foot-wide side door to enter the cooler, tossing out boxes of soda to reach the workers. With help from other firefighters, Lt. Genovese and Firefighter Gillespie dragged the workers out through the front door. The critically injured workers were taken first to St. Barnabas Hospital and then transported to Jacobi Hospital for smoke inhalation. Three firefighters suf- fered minor injuries. Fire marshals determined the cause was an overheated extension cord attached to an air conditioner. This fire demonstrated an important safety message to all New Yorkers: do not use extension cords to power air condi- Lt. Sean Genovese of Squad 41 Firefighter Steven Gillespie of Squad 41 tioners. Fifth-Alarm Fire in Queens FF spend more than four hours fighting flames spectacular fifth-alarm fire broke out in a one-story brick Duane AReade drugstore at 37-28 Junc- tion Boulevard in Corona, Queens on August 7. More than 200 firefighters battled the blaze, which was first reported at 3:45 a.m. when members of Ladder 138 spot- ted flames extending through the roof of the store as they responded to a nearby, unrelated carbon monoxide emergency. The fire was a second-alarm on arrival and was transmitted as a third-alarm min- utes later. Due to the extreme heat and humidity, thermal inversion occurred as smoke from Firefighters battle a fifth alarm fire in Corona, Queens on August 7. the fire was trapped on the ground, mak- Photo courtesy of Charles Eckert. ing it challenging for all FDNY personnel nesses and five residential buildings were 8:04 a.m. Twenty-one firefighters suf- to operate. evacuated, but no homes sustained fire fered minor injuries, 14 of whom were “The firefighters really got a beating damage. transported to area hospitals. There were from the heat, humidity and smoke,” said Firefighters used five tower ladders, no reported civilian injuries. Chief of Operations Patrick McNally, six hand lines and two multi-versals to Fire marshals continue to investigate who responded to the fire. keep the fire from spreading further. the cause of the fire. Flames spread to two attached busi- The fire was brought under control at

FDNYNEWS 7 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Play Ball! FDNY members attend seventh annual FDNY Night at KeySpan Park

t was a night of food, friends and Iremembrance. FDNY members and their families cel- ebrated the seventh annual FDNY Night at Brooklyn’s KeySpan Park on July 20. The night was bittersweet as Matthew and David Pudjak, brothers of fallen Fire- fighter Daniel Pudjak of Ladder 146, threw the game’s ceremonial first pitch. Firefighter Pujdak was fatally injured while battling an all-hands fire on June 21. Children of FDNY members got to stand beside Cyclones players during the singing of the National Anthem by Fire- fighter Regina Wilson of Engine 219. The event also included a memorial ceremony at the Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance, a fireboat water display, a performance by the FDNY Pipes and Drums band and fire safety education demonstrations. Unfortunately the evening ended with Matthew and David Pudjak, brothers of fallen Firefighter Daniel Pudjak of Ladder 146, the Cyclones losing to the Tri-City Valley gear up to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Cyclones game during the seventh Cats, 8-6. annual FDNY Night. Proceeds from the night’s ticket sales ciation Scholarship Fund, which gives the ers the opportunity to receive higher edu- support the Uniformed Firefighters Asso- families of active and deceased firefight- cation. Born Again Deteriorating firehouse will become new state-of-the-art EMS station

n old firehouse soon will get a new a separate decontamination area, as well from its former location. Alife in the Bronx. as locker facilities and bathrooms for up From June 12, 2006, to June 11, 2007, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Fire to 100 employees. Ladder 39’s travel times to all structural Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta There are currently 29 EMS stations fires dropped 55 seconds, from 4:51 to announced on August 15 plans to build a and three outposts located throughout the 3:56 when compared to the previous year, new state-of-the-art EMS station at the five boroughs. Since the 1996 merger of as did overall travel times, which former quarters of Ladder 39. the Fire Department and EMS, the num- decreased 27 seconds from 4:57 to 4:30. Located at 243 E. 233rd Street near the ber of EMS facilities constructed by the During the same period, travel time to Bronx River Parkway, the facility will City has nearly doubled, with nine sta- structural fires in the Woodlawn section serve residents in Woodlawn, Riverdale tions built and opened since 2002. increased only slightly, from 4:12 to 4:17, and Kingsbridge, consolidating the work Firefighters from Ladder 39 were tem- while firefighters responded to more total of six ambulances based out of three sta- porarily relocated to the quarters of emergencies, from 1,172 to 1,719. In Fis- tions into a single unit. Engine 63 in June 2006 because of the cal Year 2007, the citywide average travel At an estimated cost of $12.4 million, structural deterioration of their century- time to structural fires for all ladder com- the new EMS facility at the 5,300-square- old firehouse – the last wood frame fire- panies was 4:50. foot lot will include a captain’s office, house in the City.Ladder 39’s new home training and equipment storage areas, and is less than seven-tenths of one mile away

8 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Grillin’ to Win Firefighters compete in Gallagher’s Steakhouse cook-off t is well-known throughout New York City that some of the most flavorful Icooking is done in the City’s firehous- es, and on June 21, Firefighter John Sierp from Ladder 169 proved it when his orig- inal steak recipe won first place in the Firefighters Grill-Off Challenge at Gal- lagher’s Steakhouse. “I’m surprised I won because the other recipes were more ambitious,” said Fire- fighter Sierp. “Like most recipes, I just picked it off the top of my head. I don’t know where it came from.” Firefighter Sierp was one of four fire- fighters who participated in the challenge hosted by Gallagher’s Steakhouse. The five judges scored the recipes based on flavor and presentation. As the winner, he received a Leroy Neiman lithograph and a chef’s jacket Firefighters cook up their favorite steak recipes during Gallagher's Grill Off Challenge from the restaurant. And “Sopranos” star at Gallagher's Restaurants. They were joined by "Sopranos" star Lorraine Bracco and Lorraine Bracco, who attended the com- the restaurant's head chef. The winner was Firefighter John Sierp of Ladder 169 (sec- petition, donated a case of Chianti Classi- ond from left). co from her wine company, Bracco Wines. runner-up. they also won rave reviews from Gal- Gallagher’s also donated more than “[It’s] something my father used to lagher’s head chef, who said: “They real- $600 to the FDNY Foundation. make for me when I was younger and it ly know their way around a kitchen.” “We are delighted to host the FDNY at just stuck in my head,” said Firefighter As the New York City winner of the a culinary event for their favorite chari- McConnell, who said he learned to cook Firefighters Grill-Off Challenge, Fire- ties,” said Gallagher’s General Manager from his father. fighter Sierp will compete against fire- Terry Condon. “New York’s Bravest have Also competing was Firefighter Steve fighters from Tampa, Fla.; Newark, N.J.; a special place in our hearts and in the Brunner from Ladder 36 and Firefighter Atlantic City, N.J.; Denver and Las kitchen.” Salvatore DePaola from Engine 160. Vegas (cities where Gallagher’s has Firefighter Gene McConnell of Engine The contestants not only impressed the restaurants) in a national challenge later 14, who used a family recipe, was named attendees and judges with their dishes, but this year. Did you know? Firehouse Patches he uniform connects a member to adopted their design in the late 1970s or Others reflect a firehouse nickname or the Fire Department, but it is the early 1980s when the FDNY held a con- slogan, and many also use cartoons in Tcompany patch that binds fire- test for the most creative patch, Chief their designs – including Yosemite Sam, fighters to the tradition of their firehouse. Melahn said. Popeye and, of course, fiery red-devils. “There’s individual pride,” said Hon- The contest winners, Engine 205 and The patches are designed by anyone orary Battalion Chief Fred Melahn at the Ladder 118, created a combined patch affiliated with the firehouse or are famil- Mand Library. “Every company has its featuring the Brooklyn Bridge and the iar with the company’s members. own quirks and the patch is their sym- Manhattan skyline, characteristics of They are optional, yet the only com- bol.” their Brooklyn Heights neighborhood. pany that does not have one is Engine 67 Company patches generally are worn Many others similarly have patches in Manhattan. The colors and designs are on the right sleeve, opposite the Depart- that reflect their firehouse’s neighbor- subject to approval by each company’s ment’s official patch. hood, such as Engine 9 and Ladder 6’s borough commander, and they can not be No one really knows when or how the that includes a green dragon in homage to larger than 4 ½ inches high and 3 ¾ inch- tradition started, but many firehouses their Chinatown neighborhood. es wide.

FDNYNEWS 9 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007 Safety Partnership FDNY and Department of Buildings join forces to make NYC buildings safer

he Fire Department and Depart- inspections), the pilot program enables served by the DOB have increased by 40 ment of Buildings (DOB) have FDNY deputy chiefs to enter critical percent. Additionally, 50 percent of all Tdevised a joint operations initiative information about buildings directly into high-priority complaints have resulted in to improve safety for first responders and the DOB’s Business Information System, violations. expand inter-agency communications. drastically reducing notification and Officials from both agencies say they In the past, fire officers have used a action time required for DOB officials to are pleased with the results of the partner- standard form to report violations, notify- address structural hazards that could ship and intend to expand cooperative ing the FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention. endanger FDNY members and the public. efforts to all five boroughs, including Members from fire prevention then The pilot program also includes joint field and administrative units. relayed the complaint to 311 operators, follow-up inspections with uniformed Next, the two agencies will address the who notified officials from the DOB. FDNY officials and DOB engineers, thus use of lightweight construction material The new partnership yielded the Fast- increasing the number of building tenants in buildings, since substandard construc- Track Pilot Program, which was launched and owners that allow access to their tion work and flimsy materials can affect in Bronx Divisions 6 and 7. Using a new property. structural stability, creating hazardous High Priority A-8 Referral Form (which is Since the pilot program was launched conditions for both firefighters and the used to report building violations during in October 2006, the number violations general public. Day of Celebration and Hard Work

n Independence Day, millions of Ospectators lined the East River to watch the Macy’s 4th of July Fire- works display light up the sky. Four double barges blasted more than 35,000 shells over the River for the annual show. But members of the FDNY’s Explosives Unit don’t pay much attention to the skies during the spec- tacular exhibition. They were too busy making sure that the barges remained 1,000 feet from the shore, people on the boat stayed safely behind a steel con- tainer on the barge and Fireworks inspectors from the FDNY gear up for the 2007 Macy's 4th of July display on the East there are enough lifejackets River. for everyone involved. “When dealing with explosives, you March. Members of the FDNY’s Explo- command station on land. can’t play around,” said Chief Inspector sives Unit are closely involved with the They are just a few of the 40 specially James Lauer. “There’s a lot of pressure to entire process - from approving new trained inspectors who ensure safety for make things work and keep them safe. It’s shells to ensuring organizers have the all fireworks shows that occur in New difficult to stop a show.” proper permits. York City - from New Year’s in Times He said the unit begins meeting with During the show, two FDNY fire Square to the Music in the Park concert Macy’s fireworks organizers and other inspectors stand on the barges, another is series in Central Park. city agencies involved with the display in stationed on a tug boat and one mans the

10 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech Profile of the Month September 2007 Peaceful Entry Firefighter Wally Blum gives the entrance to the Rock a facelift

f you’ve admired the newly land- scaped entrance to the New York Fire IAcademy, then you have one man to thank: Firefighter Walter Blum. Firefighter Blum, building coordinator at the Academy, supervised the installation of a waterfall and seating area at the entrance and worked with other members to clean up the embankment. “We are a showpiece for the world’s visitors,” he said, acknowledging hun- dreds of students, media and FDNY rela- tives visit the Fire Academy every year. He said he wanted the entrance to be welcoming … and it is. Visitors can sit on one of three benches at the entrance and listen to the soothing sounds of the waterfall while admiring the lush greenery and historical pieces on dis- play, including metal placards from old firehouses, stone sculptures of firefight- ers’ faces, a hand-drawn chemical engine from 1900 and a fireboat’s monitor. “Over the last five years we brought the training to a new level and Wally is giving the Rock the look to go along with it,” said Chief of the Fire Academy Stephen Ger- aghty. Firefighter Blum said he uncovered many of the historical pieces in storage at Fort Totten. Deputy Commissioner Milton Fischberger told him about metal placards stored there that were in danger of being damaged. Firefighter Blum also found the sculptures there, which originally were displayed at the New York City Fire Museum, but were found to be too large. “We were trying to uphold the history Historic statues and equipment are part of the new entrance at the Fire Academy of the Department and trying to instill designed by Firefighter Walter Blum. pride in the younger guys, who are just coming on the job,” he said. continued for a year-and-a-half. At that “I worked in a firehouse for more than Firefighter Blum, a Belle Harbor time, he also became building coordinator 23 years and that’s a large part of my life,” native, said he joined the FDNY for at the Rock, responsible for the comple- said Firefighter Blum. “But I enjoy the excitement and to partake in the Depart- tion of new construction projects. work I do at the Academy, too.” ment’s tradition of service in New York Teaching in a classroom and working The FDNY is lucky to have Firefighter City. But his 25-year career has taken him in an office setting took some readjusting, Blum as a member, not only for his knowl- on a journey very different from the aver- said Firefighter Blum. edge of building construction and fire- age firefighter. “It’s a whole different way of life,” he fighting, but also for his acts of bravery. After more than two decades at Ladder said. He received eight meritorious citations 174, he was asked to be a building con- Although he misses the firehouse, he between 1985 and 2003. struction instructor at the Academy. He said he enjoys using his skills in contract- Yet Firefighter Blum remains humble started teaching in November 2003 and ing and construction to benefit the Depart- about the honors, saying: “It’s really just ment. what our job is to do.”

FDNYNEWS 11 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech September 2007

said Mayor Bloomberg. Governor Spitzer added, “I’m amazed by how many lives he touched.” Firefighter Beddia loved golf, card games and most of all his family – includ- ing brothers Edward Carman and James Beddia and sisters Barbara Crocco and Olson. And to keep alive his love of family and generous nature, his family requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be given to a fund benefiting the Graffagnino children. “It keeps alive his giving spirit for future generations,” said Commissioner Scoppetta.

Donations honoring Firefighters Beddia and Graffagnino Thousands of firefighters line the streets in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn to honor the life of can be sent to: Firefighter Joseph Graffagnino. FF Joseph Graffagnino game. Children's Fund TRAGEDY “You are my friend, you are my brother, c/o FDNY Foundation (Continued from page 1) you are my hero,” she said. 9 Metrotech Center Firefighter Beddia was Engine 24’s sen- Brooklyn NY 11201 from members of the FDNY. ior man, and many remembered him as the “Joey always wanted a brother,” said his ultimate firefighting coach – calm and For more information mother, Rosemarie Graffagnino. “Who always willing to teach new firefighters please call 718-999-0779 would have thought that all these years later entering the house. he would have thousands? I feel as if I have “He had a passion for his work,” said Lt. adopted all of you.” Raymond O’Hanlon of Engine 24. “He was Funeral for Firefighter Beddia VIEW a true professional. And if anything rattled P OINT More than 9,000 firefighters lined Fifth Bobby, I never saw it. We were all deprived SEPTEMBER 2007 Avenue to pay tribute to Firefighter Beddia, of Bobby’s calm and soothing voice saying NEWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE DEPARTMENT 53, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan ‘I’m with you tonight boss, I’m with you.’” FIRE DEPARTMENT on August 24. He was remembered for his Lt. O’Hanlon added that when respond- humor, kindness and extraordinary skills as CITY OF NEW YORK ing to New Orleans in the aftermath of Hur- 9 METROTECH CENTER a firefighter. ricane Katrina, Firefighter Beddia brought BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201 His sister, Susan Beddia Olson, recount- a sense of calm to the area. Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor, City of New York ed childhood memories of him saving her “This was a guy who was driven and Nicholas Scoppetta, NYC Fire Commissioner from drowning in a pool, teaching her how happy, competitive and compassionate,” FRANCIS X. GRIBBON to drive and taking her to her first baseball DEPUTY COMMISSIONER S. PAUL ANTONELLI PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR

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SFM RALPH BERNARD, RANDY BARRON, PARAMEDIC GEORGE BURBANO EMT ROBERT DOMINGO, FF CHRIS LANDANO, HEATHER SMITH PHOTO UNIT ViewPoint is published entirely in-house by the FDNY Office of Public Information/Publications FDNY 1865-2007 A 143 YEAR HISTORY Firefighter Robert Beddia was honored by thousands of firefighters, family and friends OF COMMITMENT, COURAGE & COMPASSION during a memorial service at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan. FDNYNEWS