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October, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

100-Year-Old House in Columbia County Destroyed by Fire COLUMBIA COUNTY, NY On August 12th at 3:58 P.M., the Niverville Task Force and Claverack Fire Department for the FAST team were dispatched for a reported lightning strike at a residence located at 233 County Route 28B. The caller stated that there was smoke in the residence and that the alarms were going off. The first arriving New York State Police unit on scene notified the dispatcher that they had a working structure fire at the address, and the residence was being evacuated. Niverville Car 2 arrived on scene and requested the second-alarm, sending mutual aid to the scene from Stuyvesant, East Chatham, South Schodack, Kinderhook, North Chatham, Stockport and Stuyvesant Falls for manpower and to establish a tanker relay, as they had a quartermile long driveway. The first two arriving tankers on scene dropped their LDH up the driveway, and Kinderhook parked halfway up the driveway and established the water supply as the relay engine. As firefighters made their way into the house they had a heavy smoke condition throughout and attempted to locate the seat of the fire. A working basement fire was discovered, which had quickly traveled above their heads into the attic. Firefighters deployed multiple hand lines inside of the structure and began to search for the source of the fire. As the smoke and fire conditions inside intensi-

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fied, command ordered all of the units inside of the building to evacuate. Heavy thick gray and black smoke started to push from the roof and firefighters began to set up multiple hand lines on the outside of the residence. As additional firefighters arrived on scene, heavy smoke started to push from the windows on the first floor and fire began to push through the roof of the building. The Nassau, Ghent, Red Rock and Stottville Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene. Valatie’s ladder truck set up in the rear of the structure. As firefighters made entry again to work inside of the structure and attempt to knock down the heavy fire condition, a MAYDAY was transmitted by a firefighter that had become separated from their partner. With no FAST team on scene, command requested the Claverack Fire Department to expedite to the scene and also requested the City of Hudson to the scene with their FAST team, but they were at least 30 minutes away. Firefighters worked together and were able to extricate the lost firefighter from the building, who was then evaluated by EMS. With heavy fire traveling throughout the structure and making its way into the basement of

the building command notified all units on scene that they were going into a full defensive operation, and no one was to enter the building. Heavy fire continued to travel throughout the attic area of the building, slowly burning off the roof. As firefighters began to pull around the eaves of the structure to make holes to spray water into the attic area, they discovered that the insulation in the attic was dry hay, which allowed for the fire to easily travel through the attic. Firefighters began to drop their coats as temperatures hovered around 90-degrees, and a large amount of bottled water was brought up the hill to the exhausted firefighters. EMS on scene checked on firefighters as they came in to rehab to hydrate and catch their breaths. Crews continued to conduct suppression efforts late into the evening hours. Command requested an excavator to the scene to attempt to pull apart the house and knock down the remaining heavy fire condition. Firefighters remained on scene until the late hours of the next day. The fire department later determined through data from the national weather service that the fire was caused by a lightning strike. The house, which was over 100-years-old, was a total loss. All of the residents inside of the home made it out safely. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

October, 2021

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October, 2021

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 22 No. 10 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.

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The whole country has changed, everything from PPE to vaccine mandates. We've seen overcrowded ERs, been warned about doing CPR in the field on suspected Covid patients, sometimes kept our distance from family members after shifts were over, and unfortunately saw more death than ever before. Although our first responders and healthcare workers were often applauded as "Heros", all of 2020 and some of 2021 became a nonstop and emotionally painful year. Then came the vaccines and suddenly the numbers of cases were slowly falling in most states, and we thought maybe we could catch our breaths. Some were too hesitant to take the shots because they hadn't yet received full FDA approval even though they were approved for emergency use, and then some called themselves antivax'ers. Rolling out the vaccines were slow, supply wasn't always there. Eventually numbers of Americans through the country did line up for their shots. Masks started coming off, restaurants opened, and families that hadn't seen their loved ones for a year or more were getting together again. The country started to come alive again, even though we had lost (as of Aug 2021) more than 600-thousand (confirmed Covid deaths) in America; in New York alone there were more than 60-thousand deaths (per NBC and state news reports). Then we heard about the "variants", and Delta started making headlines, so did a minimal number of "breakthrough cases" (people who had received the vaccine but still caught Covid, USUALLY in a milder form). People were once again falling ill to the virus.

People started wearing masks again, some stores put their "Masks Necessary" signs back up, and hospitals in some areas of the country are once again overcrowded. The Mayor of New York City mandated that all NYC employees and public-school teachers and staff get vaccinated or submit to weekly testing and wear masks. On August 18 of this year, former Governor Cuomo mandated, "All healthcare workers in New York State must receive at least one dose of a COVID19 vaccine by September 27, 2021." (There are limited exceptions for those with religious or medical reasons which will be carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis). Throughout the country, government leaders and employers are making the same demand. And throughout the country employees have threatened walkouts in protest. Approximately 170 employees of one hospital were suspended without pay when the administration demanded they get the vaccine — in the court case that followed the judge ruled that the hospital administration was within their rights to demand vaccinations. Since then both the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and OSHA guidelines have upheld the right of employers to mandate that employees are vaccinated; under OSHA guidelines, employers must furnish a work environment that is safe and free from known hazards and that includes Covid. The three Covid-19 vaccines have been safely administered to almost 400-million Americans after strict clinical trials and under the FDA's Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). After several more trials, on August 23, 2021, the FDA announced that the Pfizer vaccine was OFFICIALLY APPROVED for use. Moderna filed for approval on June 1, 2021 and they are hoping to soon receive approval as well. Officials are hoping that those who were hesitant to get the vaccines will now be more willing to do so.

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Second-Alarm Struck for Kitchen Fire in Rochester High-Rise ROCHESTER, NY - On Friday, August 20th at 5:41 P.M., Rochester firefighters responded to a kitchen fire with a report of a person trapped on the sixth floor of The Hamilton Apartments, located at 185 Mount Hope Avenue. Upon arrival, responding units found heavy smoke showing and a secondalarm was struck. One occupant was assisted from the building by firefighters. The fire was quickly brought under control. There were no injuries reported.

NEVER FORGET "REQUIEM TO THE LOST FIREFIGHTERS OF NEW YORK" By Ed Lee, Ex-Chief Matawan Borough Fire Dept.

SOUTH FARMINGDALE FIRE DISTRICT SEEKS FULL-TIME HOUSE MAINTAINER (M-F) Applicant (Age 21 years +) must be reliable and able to commute between two locations. Daily cleaning, handyman repair, general maintenance of 2 ﬁrehouses. Operating vehicles, equipment, ordering, maintaining supplies. Good communication skills, computer proﬁcient, keep records, manage part-time staff. NYS CDL driver’s license preferred.

Salary commensurate with experience. Email resume to: bofc@southfarmingdalefd.org by September 15, 2021

September 11th 2001, a beautiful morning full of bright sun. By 9 a.m. the world turned dark, evil arrived and hit its mark. The towers were a symbol they could not accept, the hatred and contempt in secret was kept. Without hesitation they answered the call, no second thought not even a stall. The 343 rose from the ranks, not looking for glory or even a thanks. The job was there, task was at hand, the fires were fueled like a wind-driven fan. Up and above they went to where the people were, no questions asked, just a simple yes sir. The towers fell and all was lost, 2,958 souls were the cost. They gave their lives to the job they loved, now 20 years later they pull their watch from above.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

October, 2021

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October, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Colorado: Chester Riley, 57 Rank: Chief Incident Date: March 20, 2021 Death Date: March 20, 2021 Fire Department: Nucla Naturita Fire Protection District Initial Summary: On Saturday, March 20, 2021, Chief Chester Riley responded to the scene of an automobile accident. While at the incident, he experienced a heart attack and passed away. West Virginia: Charles Wesley Miller, Jr., 62 Rank: Captain Incident Date: April 4, 2021 Death Date: April 4, 2021 Fire Department: Albright Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On Sunday, April 4, 2021, Captain Charles Wesley “Chuck” Miller, Jr. was responding to a brush fire in his personal automobile. He was killed when his vehicle went off the road and into a ditch on North Preston Highway. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Delaware: Laura Madara, 56 Rank: Fire Police Officer Incident Date: April 9, 2021 Death Date: April 9, 2021 Fire Department: Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: On Friday, April 9, 2021, Fire Police Officer Laura Madara was working at the scene of a vehicle accident and standing behind a Selbyville fire police truck. The driver of the truck, while backing up, accidentally struck her. She was immediately rushed to the hospital where she passed away a short time later from her injuries. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Fire Police Officer Laura Madara was also the Ladies Auxiliary President. Ohio: Selinde Roosenburg, 20 Rank: Wildland Firefighter Incident Date: March 23, 2021 Death Date: March 25, 2021 Fire Department: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry Initial Summary: On Tuesday, March 23, 2021,

Wildland Firefighter Selinde Roosenburg was participating in a controlled burn at Richland Furnace State Forest in Washington Township. During the fire, she was involved in a UTV rollover accident. She passed away from the injuries she sustained in the incident on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Georgia: Efren Medina, 20 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 17, 2021 Death Date: April 17, 2021 Fire Department: St. Marys Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday morning, April 17, 2021, Firefighter Efren Medina, while working his first 24-hour shift as a firefighter, passed away in his sleep at the firehouse. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Arizona: Robert Costello, 62 Rank: Chief Incident Date: April 7, 2021 Death Date: April 8, 2021 Fire Department: Buckeye Fire-Medical Rescue Department Initial Summary: Fire Chief Robert Costello, while onduty, attended fire department and city council meetings with individuals with known cases of COVID-19. He subsequently contracted the virus and passed away from a heart attack stemming from the disease on Thursday, April 8, 2021. Wyoming: Charles “Chuck” Edward Scottini, 67 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: October 24, 2020 Death Date: April 24, 2021 Fire Department: Laramie County Fire District #2 Initial Summary: In October of 2020, while on a wildland fire assignment in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Assistant Fire Chief Charles “Chuck” Edward Scottini contracted COVID-19. He was flown to the University of Utah Hospital for treatment and remained there until last Wednesday evening, April 21, 2021, when he returned to Wyoming and was in hospice care. Assistant Fire Chief Scottini passed away from the virus early Saturday morning, April 24, 2021, with his family by his side.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

October, 2021

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October, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

BOB MCCORMICK

Partial Building Collapse in Town of Newburgh NEWBURGH, NY - At approximately 11:30 A.M. on Monday, August 23rd, the Coldenham Fire Department was dispatched to assist Central Hudson with keeping people out of a building located in the Town of Newburgh. Firefighters arrived on scene to find a one-story warehouse with a partial roof and wall collapse. Car 1 assumed command and requested a change in response for a confirmed partial building collapse. Members worked to confirm that no occupants were trapped in the build-

PROVIDED

Resident Suffers Burns in City of Beacon Structure Fire

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ing and checked for any gas leaks or other hazards. Thankfully, no injuries occurred. Coldenham was assisted on scene by County Coordinator 3615, representatives from the Orange County Technical Rescue Team Collapse Division, New York State Police, and the Port Authority of New York/New Jersey. - COLDENHAM FIRE-RESCUE

BEACON, NY - The City of Beacon Fire Department received a report of a house fire at 9:09 P.M. on August 22nd at 311 Hudson Ave. The first arriving engine company reported smoke and flames showing from a two-story duplex. The occupant had safely exited the house with minor burns. A secondalarm was requested per BFD Car 2. The second floor was charged with smoke with the main fire in the second-floor front bedroom. City of Beacon firefighters made entry through the front door with a hose line up a flight of stairs to the bedroom. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down. A second hose line was stretched for

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back up. Searches, ventilation, and checking for fire extension were conducted by Fishkill firefighters. Fire damage was confined to the second floor with no extension into the attic or the neighboring attached duplex unit. The quick interior fire attack and one of the bedroom doors being closed assisted in keeping the fire from spreading throughout the second floor. The unit sustained smoke damage throughout. Central Hudson crews disconnected service to the one duplex. The occupant was transported by BVAC to St. Luke’s ER. Two City

of Beacon firefighters received minor injuries and were treated and released from St. Luke’s ER. Mutual Aid: Village of Fishkill FD and the Castle Point FD to the scene. Rombout FD and Glenham FD stood by at Beacon Fire Station 2. The Beacon Volunteer Ambulance, Philipstown Ambulance, City of Beacon PD, Dutchess County Cars 13/17, and Central Hudson assisted at the scene. During the Hudson Ave. fire, Rombout FD and Glenham FD responded to a smoke detector activation alarm at 424 Main Street. The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time by the Beacon Police Department. - GARY VAN VOORHIS

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Rush F.D. Celebrates 100 Years with Birthday Bash RUSH, NY - On August 20th and 21st, the Rush Fire Department held a "Birthday Bash" to celebrate 100 years of service to their community in Monroe County. Events marking the occasion included a concert by "Nik and the Nice Guys", antique fire truck muster, parade and fireworks.

THOMAS MARRA

RAVENA, NY - The Ravena FD held a vehicle extrication drill on July 26th to test out their new extrication equipment. The department received the equipment that was new to them and had only been used as demo equipment for a company previously. They received Holmatro rescue tools consisting of one cutter, one spreader and one combo tool. These new tools will be used in addition to their current extrication equipment on Rescue 26-40. The drill allowed members to test out the new equipment and teach newer members about vehicle extrication.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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Fatal Trafﬁc Accident on 5th Ave. in Lansingburgh Under Investigation TROY, NY - On July 30th at 9:07 P.M., the City of Troy’s Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to the intersection of 5th Avenue and 107th Street in Lansingburgh for an SUV versus motorcycle accident. JUMP TO FILE# The Rensselaer 080621101 County Emergency Communications Center notified all responding units that they were receiving multiple 911 calls reporting the incident. The dispatcher also notified all responding units that they were getting reports that the individual on the motorcycle was down in the roadway not breathing. Engine 1 and Medic 1 quickly arrived on scene and notified the dispatcher that they had one person down in the roadway in full trauma arrest. Engine 4, along with the Rescue Squad and the Battalion Chief, arrived on scene and began to assist the members of Engine 1 and Medic 1 with performing advanced life support measures to try to revive the injured motorcyclist. Troy Police Officers also assisted on scene. Firefighters quickly loaded the individual into the medic rig while firefighters from Engine 1 and the rescue squad jumped in the back of the medic rig and continued performing advanced life support measures while en route

to the hospital. Engine 1 and the rescue squad were temporarily placed out of service. Police officers and evidence technicians set up a large perimeter and began processing the crash scene. Officers scoured the area for all available video footage that might have captured the incident. The on-duty captain requested the New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit to respond to the scene to assist with the investigation. New York State Police determined that the crash involved the motorcycle and one other SUV. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigating officers. At this time there is no indication that alcohol or drug impairment were factors in the crash. The multiagency investigation will continue in hopes of determining the exact cause of the crash. Troy Police stated, “Our thoughts remain with the victim and his family as they confront this loss.” The investigation into the accident will go on and officers will continue to search the area of the crash for any witnesses or available surveillance video. If you or someone you know have information regarding the crash please call the Troy Police Department at (518) 270-4421 or report on-line at Troypd.org - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

DIRECT MAIL FUNDRAISING MUNICIPAL MARKETING SERVICES

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October, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN BECHTOLD

Kingston Building Struck by Lightning KINGSTON, NY - On July 17th, during a severe thunderstorm, the Kingston FD responded to a reported lightning strike at 2 Sterling Street. On arrival it was confirmed that lightning struck a large chimney at the brush factory building at 6:08 P.M. Kingston's ladder truck responded and firefighters went to the roof to check the chimney. Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Koch said a report was given to the city's building safety division for further investigation.

BOB MCCORMICK

Three-Car MVA with Entrapment in Newburgh NEWBURGH, NY - On August 13th, Cronomer Valley FD responded to a three-vehicle MVA with entrapment at 1605 Route 300, in the area of Jeannie Drive. Town of Newburgh Police, New York State Police and Town of Newburgh EMS also responded to the scene. On arrival firefighters extricated two people from one of the vehicles using the Jaws of Life,

JUMP TO FILE #081621101

who were then transported to Montefiore-St. Luke's Hospital by Town of Newburgh EMS. Firefighters assisted with injured parties and checked the vehicles for hazards. Cronomer Valley Fire Police stopped all northbound traffic and also shut down Route

Bob Long

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Kitchen Fire in Rochester’s South Wedge Neighborhood ROCHESTER, NY - On Monday, August 16th at 8:35 P.M., Rochester firefighters responded to a kitchen fire at 437 South Avenue. The blaze was quickly extinguished with no injuries reported.

300/Route 32 during the incident. The crash caused one of the vehicles to leave the roadway and travel down hill, coming to a stop in front of the Micron building. Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause of the accident. - BOB MCCORMICK

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

THOMAS MARRA

A driver fled the scene after crashing their vehicle into a tree in Delmar.

Driver Flees After Crashing Into Tree in Delmar DELMAR, NY - One person has been charged after fleeing the scene of a crash in Delmar on Monday, July 26th. Emergency crews were dispatched to the area of 320 Elm Ave. around 11:05 P.M. for several calls of a vehicle that had crashed into a tree that was possibly smoking as well. The 2002 Dodge pickup truck was traveling northbound on Elm Avenue when it left the roadway and struck a tree, hit two mailboxes and came to a rest after striking a second tree, according to a report from Bethlehem Police. Delmar and Slingerlands Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene with Bethlehem Police, Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, Albany County Paramedics, with the assistance of New York State Police. Fire crews secured the battery to the vehicle while EMS was waiting to find a patient.

JUMP TO FILE #081321111 JOHN BECHTOLD

Police said the driver fled on foot prior to the arrival of first responders, but a description was given to them by a witness. The driver, later identified as a 23-yearold Delmar man, turned himself in to the Bethlehem Police Station at 6:00 A.M. the following morning. The driver was issued tickets for unsafe lane change and leaving the scene of a property damage accident, according to the report. Elm Avenue was shut down in the area from Feura Bush Road and at Route 32. Police say the driver appeared to be the only occupant in the vehicle and there were no injuries reported.

Conditions on arrival.

- THOMAS MARRA

JOHN BECHTOLD

Bloomington tanker dumping into tank, and High Falls pumping to another engine.

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Wendelville VFC Celebrates 100 Years of Service PENDELTON, NY - On Saturday, August 14th, the Wendelville Volunteer Fire Company in the town of Pendelton (Niagara County) celebrated 100 years of service to the community with a Grand Parade and Field Day.

Bloomington Stone House Fire Blamed on Renovations BLOOMINGTON, NY - A house fire on Old Lucas Ave. Turnpike that occurred on June 10th at 10:00 P.M. resulted in 40 firefighters from five fire companies responding for assistance. Bloomington Fire Chief Joe Hafner, Jr. said the fire began in the attic, and that the owner and workers were in the house at the time. Firefighters arrived to find flames shooting through the roof. Tankers were used to fill a dump tank on Lucas Ave. Extension, and water was pumped to the scene on the dead end street. Bloomington, Rosendale, Kingston, Ulster Hose, High Falls and Cottekill assisted on the scene.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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October, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Albany Fire Department Battles Orange Street Fire

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Two-Alarm House Fire in Rochester ROCHESTER, NY - On Monday, August 9th at 5:25 P.M., Rochester Fire Department Engine 7 noticed a smoke condition in the area of Cottage and Genesee Streets. While investigating the source of the smoke, the alarm was struck for a house fire at 481 Cottage Street. Upon arrival, units found a two-and-a-half story home with with fire throughout. With temperatures in the 90's, a second-alarm was declared for additional manpower.

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There were initial reports of people inside, but primary and secondary searches of the the structure proved to be negative. It took about 40 minutes to bring the blaze under control. There were no injuries reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. - JEFFREY ARNOLD

BOB MCCORMICK

Three-Car MVA with Rollover in City of Newburgh NEWBURGH, NY - The City of Newburgh FD responded to a three-vehicle MVA with rollover at Washington Street and Mill Street on August 6th. City of Newburgh Police blocked off the area while firefighters assisted with injured parties and made all three vehicles safe. Mobile Life ALS transported one subject to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital, and one subject was being evaluated at the scene. The City of Newburgh Police Dept. is investigating the accident.

ALBANY, NY - On August 7th at 11:29 A.M., the Albany FD was dispatched to 252 Orange Street for multiple calls reporting a structure fire. Engines 1, 7 and 2, along with Rescue 2, Truck 2, Ladder 1 and Battalion 1 responded to the JUMP TO FILE# 081321101 scene. Engine 1, coming from another call, quickly notified the dispatcher that they had heavy black smoke showing from a distance and declared the Signal 30. The battalion chief requested the frequency for the fire grounds to be dedicated. Engine 1 arrived on scene and had heavy fire pushing from the roof of the building. A second building next to the main fire building was also catching fire. Truck 2 took the front of the building, but had multiple overhead issues for the truck company to set up. Battalion 1 arrived on scene and notified the dispatcher that he was taking command and to transmit the second-alarm to bring additional resources in, as he had a secondary exposure that had caught fire. Rescue 9, along with Engines 9 and 5, and Ladder 4 were requested to the scene as thick brown smoke began to fill the streets surrounding the fire building. Engine 1's crew made their way to the third floor and requested the pump operator to charge the line. Command requested two ambulances to the scene. As firefighters made their way into the apartment they had heavy fire pushing over their heads in the cockloft. Crews made their way into the four-story building nextdoor where they had heavy fire pushing from the roof and the siding of the building was also on fire. Firefighters from the two additional ladder companies set up at the intersection and made their way to the roofs of two adjacent buildings. Hose lines were deployed to the roof as the truck companies could not set up due to multiple overhead exposure issues. Firefighters from the ladder companies quickly laddered the front of the buildings to the windows while firefighters on the floor notified command that they had zero visibility and heavy heat pushing down on them, requesting outside ventilation of the front windows to be made. Firefighters inside of the structure began to conduct an aggressive interior attack to drive back the fire. Firefighters outside of the structure set up a blitz fire to quickly knock down the heavy fire condition on the side of the building. Firefighters inside of the sec-

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

ondary building were able to knock down a large portion of the fire, while firefighters from the roof began to knock down the fire pushing from the eaves of the roof on the 'Bravo' side of the Structure. Once crews were able to knock down the heavy fire condition, firefighters made their way inside of the structure and began to conduct extensive overhaul of both fire buildings. The City of Albany's engineer arrived on scene and began to conduct a structural check of the build-

ing to make sure that it was safe to re-enter. Fire Investigators arrived on scene and began to conduct their investigation. Several firefighters were checked out by Albany Medical Centers on-scene doctor, who responds to fire scenes in the City of Albany. Residents were able to make it out safely and no injuries were reported. Both homes suffered extensive damage. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

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NEVER FORGET

Photos by Ron Jeffers

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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UNITED WE STAND

Photos by Ron Jeffers

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TRENTON FIREFIGHTING ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky

Trenton Firefighting By Michael Ratcliffe Forwarded by Chief Dennis Keenan (ret) Available from: FSP books & Videos 433 Main Street, #2A Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com: www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $21.99 This is a soft cover book from the Images of America series and measures 6 ½ inches by 9 inches. It has 127 pages and five chapters between the Forward, Acknowledgements and Introduction, and the Roll of Honor in the back. The Roll of Honor lists 34 Trenton firefighters known to have lost their lives in the line of duty. The author’s name is familiar to me and I believe I met him in person many years ago when I was photographing apparatus near Trenton. My recollection of the conversation was quite pleasant, as was my conversation with Trenton Fire Chief Dan George whom I called one day to ask permission to photograph their apparatus. He was so pleasant and accommodating that it was almost as if we were schoolmates! There are several photos of him in this

book. He was the longest serving chief. Well back to the book! The author did an excellent job of writing about the TFD, which became paid in 1892. He had help from many others which he acknowledges. Most of the images in the book were scanned from the originals. The five chapters are divided in years, namely 1747-1892, 1892-1920, 19211950, 1951-1990 and 1991-2020. Much of what is written is accompanied by a photo. All photos are black and white. I should mention that for the fact that this is a history of firefighting, there is no gallery of fire apparatus. There are photos of apparatus mostly from the earlier days, so there are horses and spoked wheels. The first motorized vehicle was actually a 1907 chief car with a 10 horsepower steam propelled motor. The reader will see much more apparatus in the wealth of fire pictures which dominate the book. One is of a ship built fuel tender, which I remember photographing. Their shop built five vehicles, two pumpers, two floodlight trucks and the fuel tender, which are lined up in one photo. There are a number of photos of personnel, both individual and in groups. One is of their first African American firefighter who also had been a marine veteran in World War II and did a search and rescue of a two-year-old girl. There is also mention of the first African American captain, the first Hispanic firefighter and the first female firefighter. If you like history you will find this book an extremely interesting read!

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

Fire Rips Through Bridge Ave. Home in Cohoes COHOES, NY - On August 9th at 5:16 A.M., the City of Cohoes Fire Department along with Green Island, the Watervliet Arsenal and the City of Watervliet Fire Department were dispatched to 161 Bridge Avenue for multiple calls reporting a structure fire. The first arriving engine and truck company on scene had heavy fire showing from the rear of the building which was pushing across the second floor. Firefighters immediately made entry to the structure and conducted a primary search of the building to make sure all of the residents were out. Crews deployed multiple hand lines to the rear portion of the building and began to knock down the heavy fire condition. Firefighters from the incoming mutual aid

JUMP TO FILE #083021109

units arrived on scene and deployed several hand lines into the front door of the building, making their way to the second floor where they encountered thick heavy black smoke with high levels of heat and heavy fire running through the cockloft. Firefighters attempted to knock down the heavy fire condition, but were forced from the building when the fire in the cockloft rapidly extended over their heads and blew through the roof of the building. Crews immediately set up multiple blitz fires for exposure protection in the front of the building. Firefighters switched to de-

fensive operations as the fire had gotten ahead of them. Firefighters placed two of the truck companies on scene in the air and into operations. As the truck companies were getting in place the roof of the structure collapsed into the second floor. Firefighters remained on scene until the late hours of the morning. The New York State Department of Homeland Security’s Office Fire Prevention and Control was contacted for their investigators to come to the scene. Unfortunately, firefighters were not able to locate the family pets until after the fire. The fire is under full investigation at this time. No injuries were reported. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

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JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

SPAAMFAA Parade and Muster Held in Spencerport SPENCERPORT, NY - On Sunday, August 29th, the Genesee Valley Chapter of the Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America held a parade and muster along the Erie Canal in Spencerport.

BOB MCCORMICK

One Extricated from Serious MVA in New Windsor NEW WINDSOR, NY - The New Windsor FD responded to a MVA with entrapment on River Road and Old Route 9W on August 8th. New Windsor Police blocked off traffic to the area while firefighters used the Jaws of Life to extricate one subject from a vehicle. New Windsor EMS transported the subject to Montefiore/St.-Luke's Hospital. New Windsor Police took photos at the scene and are investigating the cause.

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WE REMEMBER

1-877-622-MARS sales@midatlanticrescue.com

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New Windsor Fire Dept. Holds Recognition and Awards Ceremony NEW WINDSOR, NY - The New Windsor Fire Department held their annual Recognition and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, August 14th, in the rear of their firehouse. Members were treated to clams and refreshments before the awards were given out. JUMP TO FILE# Years of service 081921123 awards were presented to the following: 10 Years-Deacon Peter Haight-Erin Lesko; 20 Years-Dan Lomoriello; 30 Years-Frank Malloy-Shawn McGrath; 40 Years-Forrest Diperna; 45 Years-Thomas Van Zandt; 50 YearsVincent DiChiaro; 55 YearsLawrence Mowery; 60 Years-Edmund McDaniel; 65 Years-John Babcock, Sr. Awards were given out by Chief Michael Saylor, Assistant Chief Shawn McGrath and Danny Olsen. The New Windsor Fire Department was established in 1936, celebrating 85 years of service to the New Windsor Community. - BOB MCCORMICK

BOB MCCORMICK

Jack Babcock, Sr. receives his 65 years of service award.

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SCENES FROM THE 2021 NYSAFC ANNUAL CONFERENCE & FIRE EXPO Photos by Jeffrey Belschwinder/Sidewinder Photography

LONG ISLAND NEWS

This section is exclusively dedicated to coverage of Long Island emergency services PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

WWW.1RBN.COM

OCTOBER, 2021

SELDEN HOUSE ENGULFED IN FLAMES AFTER LIGHTNING STRIKE

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2021

SELDEN, NY - During the early morning of August 28th, a nasty lightning storm with heavy downpours blew into town. At approximately 4:00 A.M., lightning struck a home on Parkwood Street, hitting the master bedroom. Luckily, the homeowner had just left the room to go downstairs when the lightning bolt hit, shaking the entire home. - See full story on Page 29

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LONG ISLAND ADVERTISER

INDEX A guide to finding great companies

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CORPORATE INFORMATION

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2021 EFD PHOTO UNIT--RH

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 22 No. 10 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.

845-534-7500• (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.com

Car Hits Holtsville Home, Trapping Passenger HOLTSVILLE, NY - Medford firefighters were activated for a car into a house on N. Ocean Ave. just after 8:00 P.M. on August 19th. A passenger in the car was trapped after the driver lost control, slamming through two vinyl fences, narrowly missing a pool and then traveling across the front lawn before crashing into a porch, just missing the living room. Firefighters and ES units used spreaders and cutters to remove the back door and B post to free the passenger while Medford ambulance personnel stabilized the patients for transport to two hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. No one in the home was injured.

Elmont FD Responds to Car Vs. House ELMONT, NY - On August 3rd at approximately 1:50 P.M., the Elmont Fire Department responded to a report of a car into a house on the north side of Dutch Broadway at Keswick Road. Nassau County PD reported an unresponsive driver trapped in the vehicle. Numerous EFD units responded to the scene. The driver was extricated from the vehicle and transported by NCPD ambulance to a local hospital in critical condition. The cause of the accident is under investigation by NCPD.

PATCH OF THE MONTH To see your Patches in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Additional news from JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Long Island

Vehicle Hits Pole and Flips in Mastic Beach, Injuring Three

can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com

PATRICK DONOFRIO

West Sayville Fire Department Truck Company 3's logo.

MASTIC BEACH, NY – On Tuesday, August 10th just before 3:30 P.M., the Mastic Beach Fire Department and Ambulance Company were activated for a report of a motor vehicle crash near St. Andrews Church on West Riviera Dr., off Neighborhood Road. According to police, a 2015 Dodge Dart had struck a utility pole and flipped over on West Riviera. Firefighters assisted at the scene while EMS personnel treated at least three people who were in the vehicle, who were then transported to a local hospital. According to police, the injuries were not considered life-threatening. Suffolk Police 7th Precinct officers closed the road in the area while investigators from the crime scene unit went over the scene. No further details about the incident were available.

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LONG ISLAND

BRL PHOTO

MVA with Overturn in Copiague Sends Three to Hospital COPIAGUE, NY - On the afternoon of July 25th, the Copiague Fire Department responded to a three-car MVA on Oak Street, between Great Neck Road and South Strong Avenue. Upon arrival, an overturn was confirmed and an additional ambulance from the Lindenhurst Fire Department was requested. In total, three patients were transported. Suffolk County Police ESU responded and were able to overturn and push the cars out of the road.

BUDDY SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2021

Woman wakes and leaves bedroom, moments later a lightning bolt struck the bedroom, igniting a fire that would engulf the house.

Selden House Engulfed in Flames After Lightning Strike SELDEN, NY - During the early morning of August 28th, a nasty lightning storm with heavy downpours blew into town. At approximately 4:00 A.M., lightning struck a home on Parkwood Street, hitting the master bedroom. Luckily, the homeowner had just left the room to go downstairs when the lightning bolt hit, shaking the entire home. Soon after the strike the homeowner smelled smoke and discovered flames upstairs. She ran from

JUMP TO FILE #082921104

the house and went into her car, honking the horn in hopes to get someone to call 9-1-1. Selden Fire was alerted moments later and activated the alarm. Under the direction of Department Chief Will Cotty, a working fire was transmitted as the second floor was engulfed in flames, and mutual aid was started from several depart-

ments. Chief Cotty was able to confirm that the occupants were out of the home, but was notified that several cats were still inside. 3rd Assistant Chief Zeis was able to safely remove the cats. Firefighters went to work and battled the blaze as lightning and heavy rains continued around them. Crews made an aggressive attack and the fire was placed under control about 40 minutes later. - CHRIS SABELLA

JOHN WALTHERS - SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Pictured here are EMS responders from the Tri-Hamlet area, which encompasses the Mastic Ambulance, Mastic Beach Ambulance and Shirley Ambulance Districts, at the Suffolk Police 7th Precinct National Night Out, August 3rd.

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JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Rescue personnel work to get the first patient on a stretcher for transport.

Motorcycle MVA in Shirley Sends Two to Trauma Center SHIRLEY, NY – On Saturday, August 7th, just after 4:00 P.M., the Mastic FD along with Mastic and Shirley Ambulance were activated for a motorcycle crash with one person reported unconscious on Grand Ave., between William Floyd Parkway and Forest Ave. On arrival, PD confirmed that a motorcycle was struck by another vehicle. Suffolk Police 7th Precinct officers requested aviation started for a MedEvac at Brookhaven Airport. Shirley Ambulance First Responder (5-38-83) and Ambulance 18 arrived on scene and went to work checking the motorcyclist, who was conscious. Mastic FD Engine 1’s crew, under the command of Chief Rudy Sunderman, also assisted with duties as needed. A MedEvac landing zone was in the process of being established

JUMP TO FILE #081521102

at Brookhaven airport by other FD assets as well as the NAT center, however the motorcyclist became combative at the scene while EMS tried to evaluate and treat his injuries and it was determined that ground transport to Stony Brook University Hospital would be used instead. A female patient, who was a passenger, was also treated on scene by Mastic Ambulance and Ridge FD EMS. She too was taken to Stony Brook by Mastic Ambulance, according to officials. The scene was turned over to Suffolk Police after the patients were transported, and the MedEvac was returned to base. - JOHN WALTHERS

BRADLEY FOWLER / FIRE GUY PHOTOGRAPHY

Mastic Beach FD units and firefighters operating on the scene.

Working Bedroom Fire in Mastic Beach MASTIC BEACH, NY - On Sunday, August 15th at 8:42 A.M., the Mastic Beach Fire Department, along with Mastic Beach Vol. Ambulance Co. and Suffolk County Police Department were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire in the vicinity of 111 Dahlia Drive. On arrival, Mastic Beach 1st Assistant Chief Jeff McGown (5-13-31) had a smoke condition showing from the house and radioed to FIRE-COM that he had a working structure fire at 115 Dahlia Drive. Brookhaven FD and Mastic FD Chemical Co. #1

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were activated for mutual aid to the scene. Brookhaven FD was activated to stand by at Mastic Beach FD headquarters and Mastic FD Chemical Co. #1 for a Rapid Intervention Team to the scene. Mastic Beach 1st Assistant Chief Jeff McGown took the can and started to put water on the fire. Mastic Beach FD Tanker 2 (5-13-2) arrived on scene as the first due truck

and pulled a trash line to hit any hotspots in the room. The incident was placed under control a short time later as the fire was knocked down. All mutual aid companies were then released and all units were back in service in less than 30 minutes. The Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal was requested to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire. - BRADLEY FOWLER

STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

JOHN WALTHERS - SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven Lt. Lamonica on the roof at a house fire on Rockledge Dr., July 17th.

CHUCK LOWE

Floral Park Rescue 124 runs this 1984 Mack MC heavy rescue that was built by Salisbury.

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JOHN WALTHERS - SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2021

Eight Injured in Centereach Crash, Including Two Children CENTEREACH, NY - SCPD 4th Squad responded to the scene of a MVA that seriously injured two children and six others on Middle Cty. Road, just west of Hawkins Ave., at approximately 2:30 P.M. on Tuesday afternoon, August 17th. The crash occurred as one car was traveling westbound and a second car attempted to make a left turn into a parking lot. A three-year-old and a seven-year-old were rushed from the scene with serious injuries. Three other children, aged three, 10 and 13, along with three adults were all transported with minor injuries. SCPD closed the roadway for an investigation. Centereach was assisted by Nesconset FD and Stonybrook FD with ambulances.

PET FRIENDS To see your Pet Friends in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

JOHN WALTHERS - SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Mastic Beach Ambulance 2nd Assistant Chief (5-39-32) TJ Falah is pictured here at National Night Out in Mastic Beach with one of his member's dogs, "Simba". Simba was also sporting a Mastic Beach Ambulance T-shirt.

Rescuers from multiple Fire & EMS agencies along with Suffolk Police Aviation, US Coast Guard and Suffolk Park Rangers mounted a search and rescue effort for a missing swimmer at Smith Point Park on 8/6/21.

Swimmer Drowns in Ocean Off Smith Point Park SMITH POINT PARK, NY – On August 6th at about 7:35 P.M., the Mastic Beach FD and Mastic Beach Ambulance Co. were dispatched to Smith Point Park in front of the pavilion for a report of a swimmer in distress. Mastic Beach FD Chiefs Fred Loiacono {5-13-30} and Luis Grego {5-13-32} quickly got on the road and responded, as did ambulances and a first responder from Mastic Beach Ambulance under the command of Assistant EMS Chief Jenny Hoffman. While assets were en route, Fire Rescue also began to dispatch mutual aid assets from Mastic FD, Mastic Ambulance and South Country Ambulances to the scene. Mastic Beach Scuba Rescue truck 5-13-7 was dispatched to the scene along with water rescue pickup 5-13-5 and a zodiac. On arrival, 5-13-7 sent some manpower over to the Fire Island National Seashore side to retrieve the department's gator and jet ski to use to conduct a search. At that time, a Suffolk Police helicopter also ar-

JUMP TO FILE #081121115

rived on scene and began to search the water overhead, while Mastic EMS was sent to stage on the beach to assist with operations. Members from the Mastic Beach FD dive team assisted SCPD Aviation and the US Coast Guard with a search for the missing swimmer, who was found and loaded onto a US Coast Guard small rescue boat from station Moriches where according to officials CPR was performed. The Coast Guard transported the male swimmer back to their station in East Moriches where an ambulance from East Moriches was waiting. According to reports from officials, the male was later pronounced dead at Peconic Bay Medical Center despite rescue efforts from the multiple agencies involved. - JOHN WALTHERS

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LONG ISLAND

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

A racer from the Selden Jr. Slowpokes is captured mid-air during one of the cart ladder events.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Officers of Mastic FD after getting installed, (L to R): 2nd Lt. Tarren Kearns, 1st Lt. Rudy M. Sunderman, Assistant Chief Gene Martucci, Chief Rudy Sunderman, Captain Steve Januskiewicz, and 2nd Lt. Jason Lasek.

Mastic FD Installs 2021 Ofﬁcers and Presents Awards

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Racers from CI Jr. Hoboes compete in cart ladder events.

2021 Hagerman Juniors Racing Invitational EAST PATCHOGUE, NY - The Hagerman Fire Department, located in East Patchogue, recently held their annual drill tournament during the NYS Drill Teams Juniors Racing season. This drill tournament is typically one of the only Jr. races held under the lights at a Suffolk County track during the season. This years Hagerman Jr. Racing Invitational was won by the Bayshore Jr. Redskins, who placed in the top 5 in all but 1 event, and established a commanding 32 points overall in the competition. The top 5 teams were as follows: 1st place, Bayshore Jr. Redskins, 32 points; 2nd Place, Selden Jr. Slowpokes, 28 Points; 3rd Place, Lindenhurst Jr. Snails, 27 Points; 4th Place, Hagerman Jr. Gamblers, 26 Points; 5th Place, Central Islip Jr. Hoboes, 12.5 Points. Congratulations to the winners and great job by all the teams!

PORT JEFFERSON, NY – On Friday, August 13th, the Mastic FD held its annual installation dinner at the Waterview at Port Jefferson Country Club. The event brought together members of the department for the installation of Chiefs, Officers, Admin Officers, Fire Police Officers, and also winners of numerous awards presented by the fire department as well as from the Suffolk County Legislature. The awards included top responders for 2020, top responders after midnight (Midnight Alamers), and tenure awards. The department as well as Suffolk Legislature Public Service Committee represented by Legislator Tom Donnelly honored current Captain, Steve Januskiewicz, for his 25 years of dedication and service to the department. Steve’s family was also present for this great honor. Ex-Chief and current Active

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Member, Charles Mineo, was honored for 50 years of service to the department and community. Charles is well known for helping to get the truck/engine on the road quickly as an active driver for the department. He also had family on hand to help him celebrate this honor. The Chiefs award was presented to Life Member John Dolezal, who acted with braveness when a boat exploded as he was out near the Mastic Beach property owners last year. Dolezal immediately jumped into action assisting a victim who was severely burned and in the water at the time until responders from Mastic Beach FD and Ambulance were able to get on scene and continue to render aid as best as possible to the man.

Chief Rudy Sunderman and his son, 1st Lieutenant Rudy M. Sunderman, were given life saving awards for responding to a call for a cardiac arrest on Floyd Rd. North in Shirley shortly after Hurricane Isaias in 2020. On arrival they were confronted with a home with high levels of CO. They entered the home and were able to make rescues of victims who suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, caused by a generator being used. Had it not been for their quick action, this could have turned out to be a much worse situation. Outgoing Lieutenants were also honored, including 2nd Lt. Kevin Beauman who received a plaque. The Mastic Fire Department celebrates 96 years of dedicated service in 2021. Congrats to all the chiefs, officers and award winners on a job well done. - JOHN WALTHERS

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FDNY Historic Fire Boat John J. Harvey Celebrates 90 Years 1931 is the birthdate of the Empire State Building, George Washington Bridge, and the oldest, most famous firefighting vessel on the Hudson River, the John J. Harvey. Built for the New York City Fire Department at Todd Shipyards in Gowanus Bay, Brooklyn, she was ordered in 1928 at the cost of $594,000. Her keel was laid down in 1930 with her commissioning occurring on December 17, 1931. She was originally named Engine 57, then Engine 86 in 1938, and finally the John J. Harvey. John J. Harvey was a FDNY pilot who was killed aboard fireboat Thomas Willett while fighting a fire aboard the North German Lloyd Line’s SS Muenchen. Before being retired in 1994, the Harvey was a historic first. She was the first gasoline-electric powered fireboat with 5 gasoline motors, 4 fire pumps, and 2 twin screws. She could pump and maneuver simultaneously and was the largest, fastest fireboat of her time being capable of pumping 18,000-gallons-per-minute. Originally powered by a pressurized gas system, the Harvey was retrofitted in 1957 with the FairbanksMorse 8-cylinder diesel engines that power her today. She has 7 deck monitors and is 130’ in length with a 28’ beam and 9’ draft. She served on the west side of Manhattan her entire career and fought some of New York harbor’s most noteworthy fires. Her first famous fire was at Cunard Pier 54 on May 3, 1932. On April 24, 1943, she fought the fire on the munitions ship El Estero in Bayonne. Had that ship exploded, lower Manhattan would have been destroyed. For her efforts, her crew earned the FDNY’s Medal of Valor Award. February 9, 1942 found the Harvey fighting the fire at Pier 88 on the luxury liner Normandie, which was being re-fitted as a troop ship. After 63 years of active service, the Harvey was taken out of service in June, 1994. Saved from the scrapyard 69 years to the day after pilot John J. Harvey died, the boat was bought at auction on February 11, 1999 at the last minute by a group of individuals interested in marine history. In June of 2000 she was

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added to the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic places. On September 11, 2001, the John J. Harvey had an unexpected time to serve encore. Shortly after the attacks on the World Trade Center, the boat’s owners started helping evacuate people from the sea wall near the Battery near ground zero. Meanwhile, the NYFD realized the vast damage to many fire mains, depriving fire crews of water at the disaster site. Seeing the Harvey carrying people off the island to safety, fire officials radioed the John J. Harvey asking if her pumps still worked. She responded yes and was told to drop off her passengers as quickly as possible and tie up adjacent to FDNY fireboats, Fire Fighter and McKean, on the sea wall to provide much needed additional pumping assistance. FDNY designated the Harvey as Marine Company Two and assigned her an officer. Since the water mains were broken, the fireboats were the only source of water. There she worked nonstop at the site until Friday night when hydrants had been restored, and she was then sent home. The Harvey’s actions that week were the subject of numerous newspaper and tv reporting and resulted in the 2002 book, Fireboat, by Maira Kalman concerning the tragedy. In 2018, the John J. Harvey sported a new appearance with a “dazzle” camouflage pattern paint job. A naval disguise used in World War 1, the Harvey’s new paint scheme was a result of a partnership between Public Art Fund, a New York based nonprofit that commissions free public exhibitions, and 14-18 NOW, a U.K. based arts program that marked the centenary of World War 1. The red and white pattern painted on the Harvey was designed to confuse range finders, the optical instruments of World War 1 era, through a series of slices, shifts and repetitions, creating the illusion of a false stern and false bow. The painted design would optically distort their forms, confusing enemy submarines tracking their distance, direction, and speed.

Thousands of vessels were dazzled in the U.K. and United States, including in New York City at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. This art commission was meant to give artists and the public an opportunity to connect with the war that ended in 1918 in which the United States participated. In 2019, the traditional NYFD paint configuration was returned to the boat after a year of many second glances by harbor viewers being “dazzled”. The John J. Harvey is moored at Pier 66 Maritime, at 26th Street as part of the Hudson River Park. Her pier consists of a restored Lackawanna railroad barge which also hosts the Frying Pan Restaurant and 1929 lightship Frying Pan. The fireboat now serves as an operational museum and educational center, working with a variety of organizations to educate the metropolitan community about the rich history of our waterways, maritime heritage, and the fireboat’s place in industrial history. The John J. Harvey welcomes volunteers in our efforts in protecting the irreplaceable workings of the engine room and riveted hull and other boat preservation efforts. The attack of salt water on steel is relentless, and preservation efforts continue daily unabated. Each year the John J. Harvey travels the region to promote waterfront vitalizations, perform water displays, and give tours of her inner workings. Crew training is never ending with courses given in first aid, CPR, man-over-board drills, line handling and deck crewing. She is one of a few boats that still uses port and starboard telegraphs and is known as a “bell boat,” so called from the distinctive chime when the telegraph levers are moved. What a great opportunity for someone interested in pursuing a career in the maritime field to start on such a historical vessel! Crew members come from various careers which all add to a wealth of great friendships and opportunities. Come join us as we celebrate the John J. Harvey 90th birthday this fall! Contact deckhand Chuck Parodi at 201-843-6966 or EMT5748@aol.com

Boat docked near Freedom Tower.

CHUCK PARODI

One of the few remaining "bell system" engine room control panels on a working boat.

-CHUCK PARODI

DAVID GRILL

Water display on East River passing under Brooklyn Bridge.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

October, 2021

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FDNY Ministry of Presence Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

When you are around chaplains you may hear the phrase "ministry of presence", but what is it and what does it look like? Well, I'll share something with you; anyone can have the ministry of presence. Many times, it is just being there that may help people feel more comfortable. Recently, I have been reminded that when the military is around, we feel safe. When law enforcement is around, people may feel safe. When firefighters are around, people may feel safe. When a child's parents are around, a child should feel safe. When a faith leader is around, people may feel safe. The person may not need the services, but it is just seeing that help is standing by that may bring down the stress level. They may not need to say a word or do anything. It is just knowing that they are ready. What is it for you, that all you need to do is know that is around you that makes you feel better. It's like having a fire extinguisher around; you may not need it, but you feel better having it around. In the Bible, there is an example of the ministry of presence. When Job lost everything, his friends showed up and just sat with him for seven days. They did not say a word because they could see the grief that Job was going through. Then all the trouble started as soon as they opened their mouths. Sometimes it is just best to be there and not say anything than trying to fill the silence with anything. The ministry of presence is different things. It is a mother up all night, when the child is sick. It is visiting someone in the hospital. They may be in a coma or dying and you may just sit there and hold their hand. It is when we know that there may be a threat of violence or a riot and we see that law enforcement or military is ready to handle the situation. When I work with one organization, they want to know how many people each person has worked with. I do not worry that my numbers may be as high as other people. My work is different than others. I do not say that I only spend a certain amount of time with an individual. I am there for that person, however long I need to be. There was an organization that I was with and there was a

tragic death of a member. I sat in the organization's building for three days because that was where people were accustomed to being. As people would drift in and out, one at a time, people would come and sit by me and we would talk or just be present together. Many of the people, who knew me, knew that I would probably be at the building. At the hospital, around the holidays, most of the people do not have any visitors. I know that the clients at the hospital feel more alone at that time. They feel abandoned or tossed to the side. And others in many hospitals and nursing homes feel the same way. I make sure that I am in the hospital and usually the clients know that I will be on the campus. I may or may not get a chance to see each person, but just knowing that I am in the building makes some of the client's anxiety level reduce. In a crisis or disaster, people may be in shock. They may be still in the presence of the event or it may be right after they walked away. It may not register with them who you are, but knowing that a chaplain, friend, or whatever you are to them, is there if they need you. There are stories of people who are about to die and they do not die until a certain friend or family member shows up. The person, whose life is about to end, may actually be comforting those that still live or that one person coming to visit may bring comfort and say something that the other may need to hear before they die. You may want to call it a level of comfort, like when a child is small and they have their favorite toy or stuffed animal. Many of us look for that level of comfort and we can also be a level of comfort. Please think of those who have gone through trauma, a crisis, or depression. Know that you just showing up may bring a smile to someone's face, may reduce the anxiety level, or bring the sense of peace and feeling that everything will be alright. Who are you willing to spend time being in the presence of, just to "Be" with them? Reminder: this is a time to shut off the phone and not look at the watch. Just Be. As I have heard said many times before, we are human beings, not human doings. I wish you all peace and may you have comfort.

DAVID ROCCO

The McKean docked at Pier 25 along the Hudson River.

Retired FDNY Fireboat Becomes Floating Museum Retired Fireboat John D. McKean, named after FDNY Marine Engineer John D. McKean who was severely burned during a gas explosion on another fireboat, will soon be opening up to the public as a floating museum. The John D. McKean served from 1955 until its retirement in 2010. During its time of service, the McKean responded to and

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helped at some of New York City's most notable incidents, such as the Staten Island Ferry Terminal Fire in 1991, the September 11th terrorist attacks, and "The Miracle on the Hudson" in 2009. In 2018, the non-profit Fire-

boat McKean Preservation Project organization was formed to restore and preserve the historic boat for fundraising and educational purposes. The McKean is now docked at Pier 25 along the Hudson River where it will soon be open for tours to the public on a donation basis. - PROVIDED

Until the next time. Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

JERRITT CLARK GETTY IMAGES

The McKean helped to keep Capt. Sullenberger's "Miracle on the Hudson" plan afloat in January of 2009.

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