AUGUST 2009

VIEW FROM Metro Tech P OINT 9 T HE N EWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE D EPARTMENT CHANGES AT THE TOP Five Staff Chiefs Promoted, Including Chief of Operations

Five staff chiefs were promoted in a ceremony at FDNY Headquarters.

ive staff chiefs were promoted on to the rank of Deputy Assistant Chief, July 30 during a boisterous ceremo- including William Seelig for SOC, Joseph Fny at FDNY Headquarters. Woznica for Fire Prevention and Robert Dozens of family members and friends Boyce for Personnel. watched as Chief Robert Sweeney was “This is a big day for promotions and a promoted to the position of Chief of big day for the Department,” said Fire Operations, Chief James Manahan was Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “You promoted to Assistant Chief of Opera- all have very big shoes to fill.” tions, and three members were promoted He said the promoted members, who represent more than 140 years of experi- ence, were each critical in rebuilding the Department after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. “These five officers will continue to move the Department forward,” said Chief Robert Sweeney was promoted to Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano. Chief of Operations. IN THIS ISSUE “You each have an unparalleled dedica- tion to the job and to keeping New York-  Commissioner’s Message Page 2 ers safe.” Among those attending the ceremony was the outgoing Chief of Operations  Rescues Pages 12-15 Chief Sweeney, a 29-year veteran of the FDNY, also served as a commanding Patrick McNally, who is retiring after 32  Photo of the Month Page 16 officer in New Orleans after Hurricane years of service. Katrina in 2005. FDNYNEWS ViewPoint

Increasing Diversity through Recruitment

ince becoming Fire Commissioner, I have recog- These results, achieved through an nized diversity as a critical issue for the Department. emphasis on recruitment, took time and SMinorities are historically underrepresented in fire money. We started in 2006 armed with a Commissioner’s departments across the country and that injustice must be $2 million budget supported by Mayor Message addressed. We owe it to our communities to devote time and Bloomberg, and made more than 2,600 attention to making sure everyone is represented. presentations in minority communities. The job of being an Yet the policies and practices used in the past to promote FDNY firefighter – the pay, the benefits, the schedule and workplace diversity have long been in need of change. The the public admiration – truly sells itself, once you get the Supreme Court affirmed that recently when it found in favor information out. of a group white firefighters from New Haven who claimed We created a database of young people interested in the reverse discrimination after the city tossed out results of a job and we followed up with thousands of phone calls, urg- promotional exam because it did not advance any black fire- ing them to take the test. Children of firefighters don’t need fighters. that encouragement – they already get it at home – but we Sacrificing one group at the expense of another does not wanted to give everyone the same motivation. create a positive work environment for anyone. It certainly We offered extensive free tutoring so all test-takers could is not fair to bring in minority firefighters under a cloud of get the same help available to those who already had fami- resentment after standards have been changed. Those tasked ly members in a firehouse. I personally recorded an auto- with walking into burning buildings must have the mutual mated phone message that went out to 18,000 city residents, respect and trust of their fellow firefighters. Lives depend reminding them about the tutoring. A second automated on it. reminder call was made two days before the test. The Vulcan Society sued the Department after investiga- Our goal was as simple as making sure everyone who tions of the 1999 and 2002 firefighter exams by the U.S. wanted the job had the same opportunity to get it. We made Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and U.S. certain that no one had preferential treatment and no one Department of Justice, alleging that the differences in pass was hired for any reason other than their ability. rates between minorities and whites was statistically signif- In the end, 41 percent of the test-takers were minorities, icant. as were 38 percent of those who passed and 35 percent who The court recently ruled that firefighters exams given by graduated in our last firefighter class. Everyone earned Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) their place. We are encouraged by these results, and will in 1999 and 2002 did have a disparate impact on minorities. work hard to achieve greater diversity. That case will go on for some time as the judge considers a What we did can work at any fire department. Firefight- remedy and the City considers an appeal, but, more impor- ers aren’t simply city employees, they’re real-life role mod- tantly, we are clearly moving in the right direction to els. We need to make certain that people in communities all increase the number of minority firefighters without resort- across New York City – and the nation – see themselves in ing to court-mandated quotas. us, and us in them. In 2002, 21 percent of those who passed the firefighter entrance exam were minorities. In 2006, we increased it to 38 percent. As a result, last December we graduated the most diverse class of new firefighters in FDNY history – 35 percent. And 32 percent of the top 4,000 candidates on the current list are minorities.

2 COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE August Pinnacle of Safety Secretary of Homeland Security Visits Manhattan Firehouse

irefighters from Engine 39 and Ladder 16 greeted Secretary of FHomeland Security Janet Napoli- tano when she stopped by their Upper East Side firehouse on July 29. The members did a roll call and gave Secretary Napolitano a tour of their 9/11 memorial wall. She asked the firefighters their motiva- tions for joining the Department and how they saw the FDNY change after the attacks of Sept. 11. “Thank you for what you do every day and congratulations for being a member of this fine department,” she said. “I’m very impressed with you all.” The firefighters gave her a firehouse t- shirt and baseball cap as a token of thanks Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano with the members of Engine 39 and for her visit. Ladder 16. “I will wear them with pride,” she said. A Gift that Defied Gravity Astronaut Gives Flag Flown in Space to the Fire Museum t has orbited the earth “It’s not trivial what you 197 times and traveled decide to take with you and I5.3 million miles, all in who you decide to give it to,” honor of the 343 FDNY he said. members who died on Sept. On this mission he also 11, 2001. brought home plate from Astronaut Michael J. Shea Stadium, Galileo’s tele- Massimino presented a flag scope and a large flag that he flown on NASA Space Shut- plans to donate to the City in tle Atlantis to Chief of honor of all those lost on Department Salvatore Cas- Sept. 11. sano and NYC Fire Museum He also showed the group Astronaut Michael J. Massimino (center) presents NYC Fire Museum President of the Board of the FDNY baseball cap he President of the Board of Trustees John Bower (right) and Chief of Trustees John Bower on July wore throughout the mission. Department Salvatore Cassano with a flag and a NASA patch that was 30. He showed the group pho- flown on the Space Shuttle Atlantis in honor of the 343 members of the “I have such respect for tos from his expedition and FDNY who were killed on Sept. 11, 2001. what [members of the explained how he and the FDNY] do every day,” Dr. us,” said Chief Cassano. “You are a true other astronauts were able to Massimino said during the presentation at member of the FDNY.” repair the Hubble Space Telescope and the museum in Manhattan. “I can’t Mr. Bower added, “[Dr. Massimino] is improve it, so it can take better photos in express how meaningful it is to be here, truly a brave and heroic man.” the future. and this is just a small token of our appre- Dr. Massimino’s father was a chief As a token of appreciation, Chief Cas- ciation.” inspector for the FDNY’s Bureau of Fire sano presented the astronaut with an The flag was onboard the Space Shuttle Prevention. He said he went on his first FDNY sweatshirt with his name and 343 Atlantis for two weeks as Dr. Massimino mission to space just months after 9/11 embroidered on it. and seven other astronauts traveled to fix and his team brought with them patches, “This is awesome,” he said. “I will the Hubble Space Telescope in May 2009. flags and a poster honoring the 343 mem- wear it with pride.” “This is deeply appreciated by all of bers in honor of their bravery.

FDNYNEWS 3 ViewPoint

Decades After Tragedy, Lives Remembered FDNY Members Commemorate 31st Anniversary of Tragic Waldbaum’s Fire

t has been 31 years since a fire at a Waldbaum’s supermarket in Brooklyn Itook the lives of six firefighters and injured dozens of others, yet friends and family of those lost have never forgotten the tragedy. Numerous active and retired firefight- ers filled St. Brendan’s Roman Catholic Church in Gravesend, Brooklyn, on Aug. 2 to remember the fallen during the annu- al memorial service. “Those were good men and I’ll never forget them,” said retired Firefighter Don- ald King of Ladder 156. The fire began on Aug. 2, 1978, in a hallway near the compressor room as (Above) Active and retired firefighters fill crews were renovating the Brooklyn the pews at St. Brendan’s Roman Catholic supermarket, and quickly escalated to a Church in Brooklyn for a service honor- fourth-alarm. Less than an hour after the ing the 31st anniversary of the Wald- fire was first reported, two dozen fire- baum’s fire, which killed six firefight- fighters were on the roof when the central ers.(Right) Fire apparatus lined up out- portion gave way, plunging half of the side St. Brendan’s Church. men into the flames. Firefighter King was one of the 12 her three small children when her hus- firefighters who fell through the roof that band, Probationary Firefighter O’Connor, morning. lost his life. He remembered hearing a cracking “He was a good father and loved the sound just before the roof gave way. After FDNY – when he got on the job he said falling, he said he thinks he was uncon- ‘what else do I need in life?’” she said scious for short time, but when he awak- about her husband, who had only been out ened, he remembered hearing the screams of the Academy and stationed at Ladder of other firefighters. He threw his weight 156 since May 1978. against the debris that trapped him and he She and the kids were picking up her was able to escape with a dislocated husband after his tour at the firehouse elbow and multiple burns. when the call came in and they went to worked at the fire and others who were Six firefighters were killed in the the fire to see Firefighter O’Connor work. close friends with those who perished. blaze, including Lt. James E. Cutillo, Bat- Recalling the horrible day, she said she Retired Firefighters Gene Bruno and talion 33; Firefighter Charles S. Bouton, sensed something bad was going to hap- Danny Prince did not respond to the fire Ladder 156; Firefighter Harold F. Hast- pen and called her father-in-law, who but were members of Ladder 156 at the ings, Battalion 42; Firefighter James P. rushed to the scene and arrived in the time. McManus, Ladder 153; Probationary aftermath of the tragedy, with shaving “We come back every year for the fam- Firefighter William O’Connor, Ladder cream still on his face. ilies and the firefighters who were there,” 156; and Firefighter George S. Rice, Lad- Looking around at the firefighters said Firefighter Prince. “And it’s impor- der 153. attending the memorial service, many in tant for the new guys to see that we never Remembering back to that terrible day, dress uniform and others in bunker gear, forget.” Firefighter King said, “It just never she added, “These new guys don’t Firefighter Bruno nodded, adding, should have happened. So I come [to the remember, or were too young to know, “The camaraderie is here, and if you come memorial service] for the families here.” what happened that day, so it’s over- back 15 years from now, you’ll see the One of the many family members whelming to see them all here.” same thing. The Fire Department is a fam- attending the service was Louise O’Con- Others attending the service included ily and a half.” nor, who was at the Waldbaum’s fire with retired firefighters, some of whom

4 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Honor through Education Eight Members of Fire Service Receive Thomas Brick Scholarships

ceremony at FDNY Headquarters on July 9 memorialized Firefighter AThomas Brick in two ways – with the presentation of eight college scholar- ships to FDNY members and the dedication of training equipment in his honor. Firefighter Brick from Ladder 36 made the Supreme Sacrifice on Dec. 16, 2003, while operating at a four-alarm fire in upper Manhattan. “I can’t think of a better way to remem- ber Tom Brick than through education and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano, training,” Fire Commissioner Nicholas Thomas and Margaret Brick (fifth and sixth from the left) and Salvatore Bommarito (fifth Scoppetta said as he stood with Firefighter from the right) join the eight 2009 Thomas Brick Scholarship winners. Brick’s parents, Thomas and Margaret. This is the sixth year financier Salvatore would be a worthwhile reward for our enough to help members of the FDNY in Bommarito and his family have funded family.” his name.” scholarships honoring Firefighter Brick. Capt. Mack, who started his FDNY The ceremony also served as a way for They donated $20,000 for this year’s schol- career at Engine 95/Ladder 36 and grew the FDNY and members of Engine 95/Lad- arships, and over the past six years, they up in the same neighborhood as Firefight- der 36 to thank donors – including Jenifer have contributed $114,500 to the program. er Brick, said the scholarship will help DeLuca, Michele De Maria and Denise This year’s recipients included Captains fund his study of fire science at John Jay Sculco – who contributed nearly $6,500 for Paul Conrad of Division 6, Michael Hubert College. the purchase of specialized confined space from Division 11 and John Mack of Engine “This is greatly, greatly appreciated,” training equipment at the Fire Academy. 68; Lt. Anthony Pasquin of Battalion 12; he said, noting he is 18 credits shy of A plaque, which will be hung at the Res- SFM Vincent Palmieri from the Brooklyn graduating. cue School, was dedicated at the event. Base; and Firefighters Robert Knabbe from Firefighter Lagnese, who is a year away “I can think of no greater gift to the Rescue 3, Robert Lagnese from Squad 270 from graduating from Empire State College FDNY than training equipment, which and Christopher LeBarron of Ladder 46. with a degree in fire administration added: will save firefighter lives for years to “I sincerely hope all our recipients will “It’s nice that people recognize the sacrifice come,” said Chief of Department Salva- go on to accomplish great things in the [Firefighter Brick] made and are generous tore Cassano. Department,” Mr. Bommarito said. “It Honor and Remembrance Staten Island Firehouse Receives Grant Honoring Lt. Robert Ryan he firehouse Lt. Robert Ryan mat for ropes training, as well as various itage®, which is funded by Fireman’s called home – Engine 155 and exercise equipment, such as a ver- Fund Insurance Company. The program is TLadder 78 on Staten Island – saclimber and rowing machine. designed to provide needed equipment, received a $8,600 grant from Kornreich- Members of Engine 155 and Ladder 78 training and educational tools to local fire NIA and the Fireman’s Fund Insurance were chosen as recipients of the grant in departments. Company on June 18, to use for the pur- honor of Lt. Robert Ryan, who was killed Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued chase of training and physical fitness in the line of duty on Nov. 23, 2008. grants to hundreds of different depart- equipment. “This is all about giving back,” said ments totaling more than $22 million, “We are most appreciative of this gen- Steve Parnes, Executive Vice President of including more than $315,000 to the erous donation,” said Capt. Steven Gen- Kornreich-NIA. “After hearing the story FDNY. tiluomo of Ladder 78. “This will benefit of Lt. Ryan, we knew we had to give the “This is all about saving lives,” said the long-term health and safety of the fire- funds to this company.” Terry McCormick, Fireman’s Fund Rela- house.” This is the second grant by Kornreich- tionship Manager. “If we can prevent an Funds from the grant will be used to NIA to the FDNY. injury or death with these grants, then purchase a fog machine that simulates The grant package is part of a nation- they are worthwhile.” smoke conditions in a fire and a landing wide program called Fireman’s Fund Her-

FDNYNEWS 5 ViewPoint Explosive Responsibilities FDNY Blasting Unit Oversees the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks

lthough Independence Day is a treasured holiday for many New AYorkers, it’s considered one of the busiest days of the year for the FDNY’s Blasting Unit. They oversee the six barges used for the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks dis- play, each loaded with 6,000 to 7,000 fire- works shells and rockets. On the barge, clusters of fireworks are divided into rows of steel racks, which Blasting Unit’s Chief Inspector Jim Lauer said ensures that if one explodes erro- neously, the entire barge will not be jeop- ardized. Each firework also is wired to a com- puter called a firing board that controls the show. These computers are located at the end of the barge in a safety container, which is a trailer-sized box that serves as a protective shell for the workers. They used this computer system on July 1 also to test each shell and ensure they would fire without a hitch during the show. On July 4, six tugboats pull the barges to their locations on the Hudson River between 23rd and 50th streets. Then, as millions gather to watch the spectacular display, members of the blast- ing unit take their places. Two or three members are stationed on each barge. One acts as the crew chief and sits in the safety container, while the other watches the explosions to ensure flares and embers are not hitting another barge. Another member of the unit is sta- tioned in the tugboat wheel house, ensur- ing the barges remain 1,000 feet apart and the same distance from shore. And other blasting inspectors are in the command posts, located on 27th Street and at the Intrepid overseeing the entire operation. Among those working the event this year are Chief Inspector Lauer; Deputy Chief Inspectors L. McCassling, N. Criscuolo, C. Holzinger, M. Reardon, J. Cruz, F. Benjamin and D. Franco; Super- vising Inspectors V. Singh, L. Romero, A. Dushynsky, N. Alexander, M Fredericks, A. Ayala, I. DeLeon, D. Chalmers, D. (Top) Members of the FDNY’s Blasting Unit. (L to R) Chief Inspector Jim Lauer, Deputy Connors, L. Gorback, O. Horton, P. Pulis- ciano and D. Crescenzo; and Inspectors Chief Inspector Chuck Holzinger, Supervising Inspector Luis Romero and Supervising M. Rivera, R. Reynolds, W. Burt and F. Inspector Andrew Dushynsky. (Bottom) Macy’s 33rd annual pyrotechnic show on July 4 Prokipchuk. was set on the Hudson River in honor of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s his- toric voyage on the great waterway.

6 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Heroes Honor Heroes FDNY Appreciation Day at the USS Intrepid

undreds of Depart- Michael Hallahan, Presi- ment members and dent of the Former Crew Htheir families gath- Members’ Association; FF ered at Manhattan’s Intrepid Keith Young from Ladder Sea, Air and Space Museum 158; FF Danny Prince from on July 18 and 19 for FDNY Ladder 156; and FF Fred Appreciation Weekend. Ancona from Ladder 132. The weekend included the The appetizers included annual Blessing of the grilled vegetable quesadil- Marine Fleet, a Battle of the las, barbequed shrimp and Boroughs Cook Off, tours of chicken kabobs and grilled the apparatus, as well as cheese with tomato. Main demonstrations of the life- dishes ranged from barb- saving techniques FDNY seared skirt steak with gar- members perform each day, lic and tossed summer including CPR, vehicle extri- greens to Stop, Drop and cations and tower-ladder res- Roll chicken. cues. The judges asked the cooks questions as they 8th Annual Blessing presented their dishes and of the Marine Fleet took notes in between bites, The FDNY’s seven fire- saying the competition was boats processed past the USS tough. Intrepid during the 8th Annu- First place went to the al Blessing of the Marine team from Engine 7/Ladder Fleet on July 18. 1 in Manhattan, second From the flight deck of place to Engine 95/Ladder the aircraft carrier, some six- 36 in Manhattan and third stories above the water’s sur- to Engine 157/Ladder 80 face, FDNY Chaplains Mon- on Staten Island. signor John Delendick and Winning teams took Reverend Stephen Harding home cooking tools donat- blessed the vessels as the (Top) FDNY Chaplains Monsignor John Delendick and Reverend ed by the Food Network and crews saluted. Stephen Harding bless the FDNY’s Marine Fleet from atop the flight cooking stations provided by The ceremony ended deck of the USS Intrepid. (Bottom) The team from Engine 7/Ladder 1 in Anheuser Busch. All teams with a water display on the Tribeca won first place in the Cook Off challenge. got to keep the grills from Hudson River. Weber. “Members of the Teams included: FDNY’s Marine Division serve with In 2008 the Marine Unit was called to Engine 157/Ladder 80: FF Kevin bravery, honor and dedication,” said more than 1,400 emergencies. It is Brennan and FF Aaron Clark Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano, charged with protecting New York City’s Engine 7/Ladder 1: FF Billy Benitez who said members rescued someone from 560 miles of waterfront, as well as its mil- and FF Jesse Klipp a kayak just before the ceremony began. lions of residents and visitors. Engine 95/Ladder 36: FF Steven Brun- “And I can’t imagine a better place to ner and FF John McGinty bless the fleet of the FDNY than from the Battle of the Boroughs Cook Off Engine 246/Ladder 169: FF Jeffrey flight deck of the USS Intrepid.” Seven teams battled to be named the Scotto and Ethan Lahey He noted that just yards away, mem- best of the FDNY cooks during the Battle Engine 79/Ladder37: FF Peter Acton bers of the Marine Division helped rescue of the Boroughs Cook Off on July 19. Engine 90/Ladder 4: FF Matthew the victims of US Airways Flight 1549 in Teams of fire and EMS members from DeRose January – known to many as the Miracle the five boroughs prepared an appetizer EMS Station 39: Lt. Michael Palleschi on the Hudson. and main course on a grill for a five and Paramedic Juan Lebron They also responded to the fire on the judges – Michael Proietti from the reality Throgs Neck Bridge on July 10. competition the Next Food Network Star;

FDNYNEWS 7 ViewPoint New Career, Bright Future 75 Graduate EMS Academy

very seat in the auditorium at the Fire Academy was filled with Echeering family and friends as 75 new emergency medical technicians (EMTs) walked across the stage to accept their diplomas on July 21. “It takes a special person to be an EMT,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “This is not an easy profes- sion, you deal with tragedy and stress every day of the week, but it is a reward- ing profession. There is honor in what you do.” EMTs Alexander Kuc and Daniel Mitchell were named class valedictorians. The diverse graduates speak eight lan- guages, ranging from Creole to Sinhala. One of the new members, EMT William Hunt, is an eight-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. “Your efforts make a difference to everyone you encounter, no matter how The 75 new EMTs salute during their graduation ceremony. big or small the emergency,” said Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano. Last year the members of the FDNY’s ry of heroism and greatness in fulfilling joined the Command after her husband EMS Command responded to more than its mission,” said Chief of EMS John suggested the idea. 1.2 million calls with an average response Peruggia. As her classmates hugged and congrat- time of 6 minutes, 38 seconds. One of the happy graduates, EMT ulated one another following the ceremo- “You have chosen a noble profession Netta Bedassie, said she has always been ny, she said, “I’m excited to start, this in an organization with a profound histo- interested in the medical profession and feels wonderful.” Up the Ranks 40 Members of Fire Service Promoted

s hundreds of firefighters, family good times and bad, in and and friends filled the auditorium out of the firehouse,” said Aat the Fire Academy, 10 new cap- Chief of Department Salva- tains and 30 new lieutenants walked tore Cassano. across the stage to accept their promo- Among the promoted tions on July 1. members was Capt. George “Every emergency you have respond- Polito from Engine 321, who ed to has brought you to this moment,” said although the day was said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scop- exciting, “it’s also bitter- petta. “This is a milestone in your careers sweet, having to leave a great and a turning point in your fire depart- house. But this is a big ment lives.” accomplishment and I’m The 40 members represent more than very proud.” 500 years of experience with the FDNY. “Those banners hanging from the The newly promoted fire lieu- rafters say it all – we support each other in tenants take the oath of office.

8 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Man of the Year Fire Commissioner Honored by FDNY Columbia Association

ire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppet- as the Deputy Independent Counsel in the ta was named the 2009 Man of the investigation and prosecution of a former FYear by the FDNY’s Columbia Asso- Special Assistant to the President of the ciation on June 19 at the group’s 75th United States. Annual Scholarship Dinner Dance at He also served as a Deputy Mayor, Russo’s on the Bay in Queens. Commissioner of Investigation for the City “I think I have been enormously lucky of New York, Commissioner for the to work in public service,” Commissioner Administration for Children’s Services and Scoppetta said to the crowd of more than on the boards of numerous non-profit insti- 400 well-wishers. “I have had a very fortu- tutions. nate and successful career.” “Nicholas Scoppetta has worked hard to Commissioner Scoppetta was appointed fulfill the American dream,” said Supervis- as New York City’s 31st fire commissioner ing Fire Marshal Buddy Santangelo, Presi- by Mayor Michael Bloomberg on Dec. 30, dent of the Columbia Association. “He is 2001. someone who is dedicated to public service He was born on the Lower East Side of and deserves no less than our praise and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta Manhattan. After serving two years in the heartfelt acknowledgment.” accepts the FDNY Columbia Association’s Army, he attended Bradley University on Commissioner Scoppetta thanked Man of the Year award from Supervising the G.I. Bill and graduated in 1958 with a numerous members of the Department for Fire Marshal Buddy Santangelo (seated) degree in Engineering. He received his their support during his nearly eight years Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School as Fire Commissioner, including Chief in 1962. While attending law school at Cassano, Chief of Operations Patrick included Chief of Department Salvatore night, he worked by day as an investigator McNally, his Executive Officer Capt. Cassano, Chief of EMS John Peruggia and for the Society for the Prevention of Cruel- Thomas Kelly, staff chiefs and his Execu- former Mayor Rudy Guiliani. ty to Children. tive Assistant Margie Fermaint. He noted the event marked his 46th Upon graduation from law school, he “As any firefighter will tell you, it’s all wedding anniversary to his wife, Susan. was appointed an Assistant District Attor- about teamwork, and I couldn’t have done The annual Dinner Dance also included ney in New York County by District Attor- it without them,” Commissioner Scoppetta the presentation of 11 scholarship awards ney Frank S. Hogan. He has also served as said. for both college and high school study for Associate Counsel to the Knapp Commis- The Commissioner, whose father was the children of Association members. The sion, an Assistant United States Attorney from Amalfi in Italy, was the 30th person to year’s Humanitarian Award was presented for the Southern District of New York, and receive the honor. Other honorees have to Vincenzo Marra, Founder of ILICA. A New Chapter FDNY High School Graduation ith the Fire Academy as a color- tor Erick Green added, “You have made the ful backdrop, 57 students from school special.” Wthe FDNY High School for Fire Eighty percent of the graduates have and Life Safety graduated on June 25. been accepted to colleges and nine of the “What you accomplished to get this far students are eligible to join the FDNY as is a huge first step for you,” said Fire Com- EMTs this autumn. missioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “You are “I feel proud of myself today, it’s truly truly an example for the other kids at your an honor,” said class Valedictorian Odani school and your neighbors – they will look Acevedo, who will be attending Lehman at you and say, ‘I can do that too.’” College. This is the second graduating class from The class Salutatorian was Tariq Wither- the FDNY High School, which is part of Fifty-seven students graduated from the spoon. He thanked his teachers, counselors, the City’s small schools initiative. Housed FDNY High School for Fire and Life Safe- FDNY officials and his family, noting, “the in Thomas Jefferson High School in East ty on June 25. FDNY was like a second family to me.” New York, Brooklyn, the school provides a And as the students shared inside jokes, rigorous academic program with a special cipal James Anderson. During his address, took photos and hugged their friends and emphasis on the academic, physical and he also asked all students find their own family, Student Body President James Fer- moral rigors of emergency response. purpose in life and give back to their com- nandez said: “Stay brave, stay strong, stay “We, as a high school, are a launching munities. focused and stay ready for anything that pad, sending you to your future,” said Prin- FDNY High School Program Coordina- comes your way.”

FDNYNEWS 9 ViewPoint To Catch a Thief Fire Marshals Nab Two in Connection with Robbery, Fire at Brooklyn Target Store

Chief Fire Marshal Robert Byrnes explains the video showing Jared Devonish and Neftatarah Meyerdierks starting a fire at a Brook- lyn Target store to distract employees as they stole eight flat-screen televisions.

DNY fire marshals used video sur- eight flat-screen televisions onto the cart, veillance footage and some good rolled it to a back exit and started a fire in FDNY to Receive Fdetective work to capture a Brook- an aisle of paper towels to cause a dis- lyn couple on June 12, charging them traction as he pushed the merchandise out $4 Million for with setting a fire at a Brooklyn Target the door. Fire Marshals store to distract employees as they stole What the couple may not have realized eight flat-screen televisions. was that the entire incident was caught on By Catherine Regan “This is a typical distraction fire, used surveillance video and FDNY fire mar- he New York City Fire Depart- to divert the attention of the public,” shals were able to identify Ms. Mey- Chief Fire Marshal Robert Byrnes said erdierks on the tape as a person of inter- Tment will receive $4 million for during a press conference at FDNY Head- est. the hiring and retaining of 18 fire quarters on June 17. “The fire marshals When they arrived at her home, they marshals. involved with this case did an excellent found Mr. Devonish and four of the eight This money is part of New York job with their investigation, leading to the televisions. Both individuals were placed City’s $29.1 million stimulus fund to arrest of these two individuals.” under arrest transported to the NYPD’s support criminal justice. Jared Devonish, 26, snuck into the 75th Precinct, where they confessed to the stock room of a Target store on Gateway crime. By investigating arsons, accident Drive at around 9:15 p.m. on June 11, a The televisions were worth approxi- fires and explosions, fire marshals store from which he had recently been mately $8,000, and damage caused by the are promoting public safety and crim- fired for chronic absences. fire is estimated to be several hundred inal justice throughout the City. With the hood of a red sweatshirt thousand dollars. Announced June 30 by Mayor pulled tightly over his head, he hid behind Mr. Devonish is charged with arson in Michael Bloomberg, members of a few freezer units and waited for his girl- the second degree, grand larceny, burgla- friend, Neftatarah Meyerdierks, 25, to ry, criminal mischief, criminal possession Congress and City district attorneys, arrive for her overnight cleaning and of stolen property and criminal trespass- the stimulus fund will also go restocking shift at 11 p.m. When she ing. Ms. Meyerdierks is charged first towards programs such as the NYPD, arrived, she tossed him a bottle of water degree reckless endangerment, grand lar- Child Advocacy Centers, and the and strategically placed a flatbed cart in ceny, criminal mischief, criminal posses- Department of Correction, as well as the stock area. sion of stolen property and petty larceny. many others. When the overnight crew of 56 people The Kings County District Attorney’s went on break at around 2 a.m., he loaded office is prosecuting the case.

10 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Tribute to a Rescuer Fire Lieutenant Receives Proclamation on Staten Island ccording to Joan Cupo, Lt. Chris Kane from Ladder 153 has been an Aoutstanding neighbor for the last decade. When she needed the help, he took out her garbage, shoveled her driveway … and saved her life. On July 29, 2008, Lt. Kane did CPR on Ms. Cupo after she collapsed outside her home, saving her life. To thank him for his assistance, Ms. Cupo arranged for the Lieu- tenant to receive a Proclamation from Stat- en Island Councilman Kenneth Mitchell on July 21. “You want Chris as a neighbor,” said Ms. Cupo at the Café Del Mondo on Staten Island. “If you need something, he’s always there – whatever you need, he’ll do it. If you know him, you just fall in love with him.” Ms. Cupo was returning home from a Lt. Chris Kane receives a Proclamation from Staten Island Councilman Kenneth lunch at Café Del Mondo last July when Mitchell for saving the life of his neighbor, Joan Cupo. (L to R) Christopher Kane, 12; she said she began feeling dizzy and her Florence Kane; Ms. Cupo; William Kane, 6; Councilman Mitchell; Timothy Kane, 7; vision blurred. and Lt. Kane. When walked into her Westerleigh home, she said she was greeted by Florence he began CPR. Councilman Mitchell said he was hon- Kane, the Lieutenant’s wife, from their After he did more than 20 chest com- ored to present Lt. Kane with a Proclama- yard next door. Moments later, Ms. Cupo pressions and two rescue breaths, he said, tion acknowledging his service. He added, collapsed. “I heard her strain and then take a deep “This story illustrates how important it is Lt. Kane remembered hearing his wife breath. It was really emotional.” for everyone to know CPR.” call for him. Moments later EMS members arrived After receiving the framed Proclima- “I could tell by the tone of her voice that and transported her to the hospital, where tion, Lt. Kane said, “This humbles me. I it wasn’t good,” he said. she was diagnosed with a heart condition. was just happy to help Joan that day. I’m Ms. Cupo was laying under a table in He said the life-saving incident did not happy Joan is here.” her yard. He said he heard her exhale and really register until Christmas-time, when “I’m happy too!” Ms. Cupo said with a then she stopped breathing. When he could Ms. Cupo delivered cookies and a card that laugh and a hug. not find a pulse, Ms. Kane called 9-1-1 and read, “Thank you for saving my life.” World Champions FDNY EMS Team Wins First Place in International Competition A team of FDNY EMS members took first place honors in a com- petition hosted by International EMS Global on August 1 and 2 in Utica, New York. The team, including EMT Joe Fortis, the team leader, and Para- medics Joe Hudak and Eddy Perez competed in a series of 13 sce- narios against 17 teams from as far away as Poland and Turkey. “They did beyond great,” said EMT Fortis, who also was named Top Paramedic Team Leader in the competition. (L to R) EMT Joe Fortis, Medical Director for the Com- As the competition’s winners, they receive an all-expenses paid petition Dr. Richard Chmielewski, Paramedic Eddy trip to Poland in 2010 for their international EMS competition as Perez and Paramedic Joe Hudak. Team USA.

FDNYNEWS 11 ViewPoint Firefighters Rescue Man in the East River

irefighter Andy Bowman and other members of Ladder 7 saved the life Fof a man who fell into the East River on July 17. “You don’t expect to jump into the East River everyday, but we train for this kind of thing,” said Firefighter Bowman. “I’m just glad I was able to help out.” Firefighters were called to the waters near 23rd Street at around 1 p.m. Bystanders pointed them to a man who was caught on the rocks about five feet from the sea wall. Firefighter Bowman rushed to put on a cold water suit and jumped into the water. Once he reached the victim he wrapped a life ring around him and checked for any injuries. Then the pair made their way against Firefighter Andy Bowman describes his water rescue in the East River with Battalion Chief the current, with the firefighter trying to Thomas Reilly (far left), Lt. Frank Giacoio (far right) and members from Ladder 7. keep the victim’s head above water. Firefighters secured a portable ladder there to get him out,” he said. “Everyone at the scene did an out- against the wall and helped Firefighter The man was transported by EMS standing job,” said Battalion Chief Bowman pull the man to safety. members to Bellevue Hospital in stable Thomas Reilly. “It was a team effort, it took everyone condition.

Firefighters Rescue Man in East Chester Bay

irefighters from Ladder 53 rescued a local resident from East FChester Bay after his boat sank approximately 40 yards off shore on July 31. At 3:38 p.m., the victim was returning from a day of fishing when his boat began to take on water in the Bay off City Island. The members of Ladder 53 were alerted to the location of the victim by witnesses on shore. Firefighter Ralph Manfredonia removed his bunker gear and swam to the victim just before he went under. Firefighter Manfredonia returned to shore with the victim, where other members of Ladder 53 assisted with his removal. The victim was then passed to EMS members, who treated and trans- ported him to Jacobi Hospital Center in stable condition. DO YOU HAVE A GREAT STORY TO SHARE? HOW ABOUT AN UPCOMING EVENT? EMAIL THE VIEWPOINT AT Firefighter Ralph Manfredonia [email protected].

12 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Just in Time Firefighters Rescue Two from Brooklyn Fire lthough they say it’s all in a where they found a semi-con- day’s work, there is no scious woman lying in bed. Adoubt that firefighters from They carried her back past the Ladder 169 did something extraor- fire to the front door where, dinary on June 23, when they res- again, members of an engine cued two from a late night fire in company were able to carry her Brighton Beach, Brooklyn. out. “We did a great job and got real- Capt. Gallagher said the job ly lucky,” said Capt. Bill Gallagher was complicated by the lack of a from Ladder 169. “You never want hose well in the building, which anyone to be in this situation, but allows firefighters to feed the when they are, you hope it works hose through a space in the stair- out well.” well to upper floors. As a result, Firefighters were called to firefighters from several engine Brighton 3rd Street at 10:43 p.m. companies had to snake the hose for a fire on the top floor of a six- The members of Engine 246 and Ladder 169 (L to R) FF Robert up the staircase. story apartment building. Gnerre, FF James Egan, Lt. Richard Eggstein, FF Matt King, The fire was placed under When the members of Ladder Capt. Bill Gallagher, FF Joe Roggenkamp, FF Thomas Curty, control at 11:09 p.m. Fire mar- 169 reached the fire apartment, FF Gabe Buoninconti, FF Jeremy Hanophy, FF Mike Milazzo shals determined the cause to be Firefighter Joe Roggenkamp forced (assigned to Engine 245) and FF Dan Saalfrank. smoking in bed. open the front door with the Halli- Both victims were transported gan tool. He said he had trouble opening the of an engine company, who transported him to Staten Island Burn Center with door, so he reached in and felt the body of a to an awaiting ambulance. smoke inhalation. man lying face down on the other side. The firefighters continued into the apart- This was the first rescue for both Fire- He squeezed inside and was able to ment and located the fire in a bedroom. fighter Roggenkamp and Saalfrank. maneuver the unconscious man around so While Firefighter Saalfrank kept back “It’s great when all the training you do that Capt. Gallagher and Firefighter Dan the flames with an extinguisher as Capt. pays off,” said Firefighter Roggenkamp. “It Saalfrank could remove him from the apart- Gallagher and Firefighter Roggenkamp feels good as an individual and as a team.” ment. They then passed him off to members crawled past the fire into a back bedroom, Firefighters Rescue Two from Bronx Blaze irefighters from Ladder 59 and left into the living room and quickly leaning half way out a window on the sec- Ladder 54 are being hailed as located the victim face down under a ond floor, with smoke billowing over his Fheroes after they rescued two men table. As he lifted the man, he began to head. from a Bronx apartment fire on July 16. moan, so the firefighter said, “I knew I Lt. Barry Leguernic said fire was Members were called to the scene of a had to get him out in a hurry.” quickly approaching and the man was fire on W. 183rd Street at 12:02 a.m. Firefighter Denver helped him remove ready to jump, but firefighters and neigh- As they approached, firefighters said the victim, who was in his 40s, to the hall- bors convinced him to wait as Firefighters neighbors pointed to the six-story build- way. There, the victim surprised his res- Greg Brannon and Steve Caglione set up ing, where smoke was pouring out the cuers when he became alert and com- a portable ladder. Firefighter Brannon windows of a corner apartment on the plained he could not breathe. Firefighters quickly climbed to the window and pulled second floor. carried him to the lobby and brought him the man to safety. Ladder 59 was the first company to an oxygen mask ease his breathing as He was passed to EMS members who arrive and immediately made their way to EMS members arrived. treated the 62-year-old man for smoke the fire apartment. The man suffered burns to his face, inhalation. They forced open the door and Lt. arms and back. “Everyone did a great job,” said Lt. Mike Fagan, and Firefighters Al Ronald- “It felt great it was almost surreal at Leguernic. son and Paul Denver began their search. first, but then your training takes over,” The victims were transported to area They said apartment was hot and said Firefighter Ronaldson. “I was just in hospitals. The fire was declared under extremely smoky, limiting visibility. the right place at the right time.” control at 12:56 a.m. Fire marshals are Firefighter Ronaldson said he turned As this rescue took place, firefighters investigating the cause. from Ladder 54 arrived and saw a man

FDNYNEWS 13 ViewPoint How Does it Work?: Confined Space Rescues s television, print and radio news reported two confined space res- Acues – on June 26 in Manhattan and June 29 in Queens – many New York- ers were left asking how firefighters exe- cute such complicated rescues. So firefighters from the FDNY’s Spe- cial Operations Command on June 30 demonstrated a confined space rescue at the Fire Academy. A confined space is defined as an area not designed for continual human occu- pancy and with limited access and egress. These include manholes, transformer vaults and subway emergency exits. Battalion Chief James Yakimovich said the demonstration simulated a victim who was trapped down a 10 foot manhole. Firefighters arriving at the scene would need to determine what caused the victim to collapse into the space. They need to be mindful of any dangers in and FF James Lopez from Rescue 2 is lowered into a manhole during a confined space around the area, including risks of asphyxia, toxicity and explosives. demonstration at the Fire Academy. He was assisted by Lt. Sean Parker from the Rescue “We immediately assume it’s a toxic Battalion, FF Eric Lynch from Squad 1, FF David Giardina from the Rescue Battalion environment,” said Chief Yakimovich. and FF Mike Travers from Rescue 2. “Our number one concern is safety, so we assume it’s contaminated until we learn it’s not.” They determine the safest way to enter Firefighters Rescue Worker and exit the space, and determine how they will operate in the area, noting any Who Fell at Construction Site obstacles they will need to overcome. By Catherine Regan Firefighters set up a retrieval system, which includes a stand with a pulley, as n June 18, firefighters rescued a work- well as a rope and a safety rope. Fire- Oer who had fallen approximately 20 fighters monitor air quality and wear air feet into a construction site on Church masks with surface supplied air as they Street between Barclay and Park Place in lower a firefighter and stokes basket into Manhattan. the manhole. According to Lt. Billy Ryan of Squad 1, The firefighter will package the victim the worker fell from a sidewalk adjacent to and perform medical assistance, if need- ed, before they are pulled to safety. heavy machinery at around 2 p.m. Depending on the size of the space, Chief After arriving on scene, firefighters went Yakimovich said the victim will be pulled down to where the worker was lying to out prior to the FDNY member. begin performing first aid. Chief Yakimovich used the demonstra- The worker was then latched into a stokes tion to warn New Yorkers about the dan- basket, and firefighters utilized their high- gers of trying to rescue someone in a con- angle ropes to lift the worker to street level. fined space. He said 60 percent of would- Despite various challenges they had to be rescuers become victims themselves face due to the geography of the scene, fire- because of their “inability to recognize fighters were able to work together to per- the danger of the situation or their emo- form this rescue. tions just overwhelm them.” He added: “Training is what allows Firefighters perform a high-angle res- Once the worker was on street level, cue to remove a worker who fell at a [FDNY members] to be successful res- FDNY EMS members transported the cuers.” construction site. Photo courtesy of worker to Saint Vincent’s Hospital in criti- Deputy Chief James Daly, Div. 1. cal condition.

14 FDNYNEWS August 2009 Working as a Team Firefighters Rescue Two from Bronx Fire

irefighters from Ladder 41 rescued They made their way to the second EMTs Jeff Mottarella and Christopher two civilians on June 20 from an floor, where the fire was located, and McManus from Station 20 transported the Fapartment fire on White Plains Capt. Glenn Fritchett of Ladder 41 direct- victim to Jacobi Medical Center in critical Road in the Bronx. ed Firefighters Jeff Rivera and Sal Maita condition. At approximately 11:20 a.m. firefight- to force open the apartment door. At the same time, Firefighter John ers responded to a fire in a three-story Inside, the team located an uncon- Hessler of Ladder 41 saw a man on the apartment building. Although there was scious victim between the apartment door second floor who needed assistance. He no sign of visible fire, firefighters from and the kitchen. The firefighters removed set up a portable ladder and climbed up to Ladder 41 said they encountered a heavy the woman to the hallway and performed help the man escape the fire apartment smoke condition. CPR before carrying her downstairs. through the window.

Rescue Board Heroes Rockaways Water Rescue Pays Dividends irefighters from Ladder 134 relied on their strength, training and a yel- Flow rescue board on June 22 when they rescued two off the Rockaways in Queens. “It’s rewarding to see their [surf res- cue] training being put to use,” said Bat- talion Chief Jerry Esposito. While out doing building inspections, Lt. Walter Rogers noticed an overturned boat in the water. They drove as close as possible to the shore and prepared to enter the water. Firefighter Randy Eichin paddled toward the boat with the rescue board and Fire- fighter Bill Burns swam with the torpedo, for use as a backup. Firefighters Mike Ormiston ad David Doxsey stayed on shore with the tether. Once he reached the two victims – a man and a woman – about 300 feet from shore, Firefighter Eichin secured them to the board. “I reassured them that I would keep them safe and they’d be OK,” said Fire- fighter Eichin. “We were doing what we were trained to do.” He checked their vitals and ensured there were no other victims in the water before notifying firefighters on shore that they could be pulled to safety. With the help of firefighters from Engine 264 and Engine 328, Firefighters Ormiston and Doxsey pulled them to shore. “It was definitely a team effort,” said The members of Ladder 134 with their surf rescue equipment (L to R) FF Bill Burns, FF Firefighter Burns. “It feels good.” Kevin Sokol, Lt. Walter Rogers, Chief Jerry Esposito, FF Randy Eichin, FF Mike Ormis- ton and FF David Doxsey.

FDNYNEWS 15 ViewPoint

Upcoming Events Support the Troops Local Firehouses Collecting Items for Military Care Packages Vegas Night! benefitting the Pat n a partnership with Mayor Michael body cream (travel size), lip balm stick, Lyons Foundation Bloomberg, firehouses throughout the razors, bug repellant wipes, shaving Saturday, September 12, 2009 Ifive boroughs will collect items to cream (travel size), shampoo (travel size), 6:30 p.m. include in care packages for the approxi- conditioner (travel size), feminine prod- Hyatt Regency Long Island mately 8,000 City residents currently ucts, baby wipes or alcohol wipes, talcum 1717 Motor Parkway serving overseas in the United States or cornstarch powder (travel size), foot Hauppauge, NY Armed Forces. powder (travel size), cotton swabs, bar Play games like Blackjack, Craps The Supporting Our Troops initiative soap and deodorant. and Roulette. Join the Texas Hold-em will run from July 13 through August 21. Entertainment Items: gift cards for tournament or just enjoy the stocked Other drop off locations include NYPD music or movies redeemable online, precincts, the Staten Island Ferry Termi- movie DVDs, audio books, puzzles or bar, great food, music and some danc- nal and City offices. Sudoku, magazines and newspapers. ing! Then cash in your chips to win Organizers hope enough items will be Miscellaneous: men and women’s GREAT prizes like a flat screen TV or donated so care packages can be sent to New York City sports team paraphernalia, our Harrah’s getaway package. all New Yorkers currently serving over- air fresheners (non-aerosol) and hand and In the name of a fallen 9/11 hero, seas. foot warmers. The Pat Lyons Foundation is dedicated Some of the most requested items * Please note: due to health and safety to bettering the lives of sick children. include: concerns, anything home-cooked (includ- We strive to enhance the lives of the Consumables: gum, candy, cough ing homemade cookies) is not permitted. seriously ill, and to assist children who drops, ibuprofen (no aspirin and single- Canned goods donations and alcoholic have survived cancer and are now use sealed packets only), non-perishable beverages also are prohibited. experiencing the late effects of their food items, pre-packaged cookies*, crack- For more information about what you invasive treatments. The Pat Lyons ers, powder drink mixes (in boxes of indi- can drop off, call 311 or visit Foundation also funds organizations vidual packets), instant coffee or tea (indi- www.nyc.gov. vidual packets), microwaveable soups whose mission is to find a cure for (non-perishable, single-serving), pasta, these terrible diseases through pedi- popcorn, sealed nuts and dried fruits, gra- VIEW atric research and ongoing education. nola and protein bars. P OINT For more information visit the Hygiene: soft toilet paper, tissues AUGUST 2009 Foundation's website at www.pat- (individual soft packs), toothbrushes, NEWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE DEPARTMENT lyonsfoundation.org toothpaste, dental floss, saline eye drops, FIRE DEPARTMENT CITY OF NEW YORK 9 METROTECH CENTER PHOTO OF THE MONTH 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 Fog horn: Members from the Department celebrated 9th Annual FDNY Night at PHOTOS ViewPoint is published entirely in-house by the FDNY Keyspan Park on July 17, as the Brooklyn Cyclones took on the Auburn Doubledays. Office of Public Information/Publications Children of FDNY members helped kick off the game as they sang the National Anthem on the field with players, just before former Fire Commissioner, and Brooklyn District FDNY Attorney, Charles Hynes threw out the first pitch of the game. After the fifth inning, the 1865-2009 game was called due to fog. A percentage of the night’s ticket sales went to the Uni- A 145 YEAR HISTORY formed Firefighters Association Scholarship Fund. The FDNY Fire Safety Education OF COMMITMENT, COURAGE & COMPASSION Unit gave fire safety information during the game. FDNYNEWS