For those of you who might have missed it, a good friend of mine asked in the "Communications/Technology Section" - topic "FDNY Fireground Accountability, a question which was quickly answered by retired FDNY member, Brian B., aka "skiLB"
Now, I'd like to take a moment to introduce you to that long time good friend of mine, who asked that question.
His name is Jeff R., aka "RatPack2" on this site.
Jeff and I both buffed the FDNY together.
As I remember, he started his FDNY Buffing in the early 1980s, as many parts of the city were still burning.
Jeff got "hooked" like so many others did.
We followed the rigs and sometimes got invited to ride.
It was an experience that we later would use to help others learn the job.
Jeff is now a Battalion Chief with the New London, Ct Fire Dept.
A very busy place for it's size and population.
I think the department runs Three Engines with an officer and two firefighters, One Tower Ladder with I believe two firefighters, two very busy ambulances staffed with two members each, plus a battalion chief on each shift.
With the busy I-95 passing through and a very active shoreline area, they certainly get their share of rescue incidents as well.
New London is also home to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.
During those FDNY buffing years, we were often joined by another member here, Scott L.
Scott L., whose user name I believe is "Bxboro" also joined us.
Scott is now a retired firefighter from the "Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department", a fully paid, active fire department within Groton, Ct
I would also like to add, his brother, who we used to call "Little Mikie" told us that he wanted to be an FDNY Firefighter in Rescue 3.
Of course that's what we ALL Wanted to do.
But for "Little Mikie L. that dream came true.
Mike L., got on the job where he was first assigned to FDNY Ladder 11
He then spent time in Squad 41
Then moved onto the place he told us he wanted - FDNYs Rescue 3, aka "Big Blue"
Mike L., has since retired from the FDNY and guess what he's doing now ?
He is now a firefighter with that "Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department" in Groton.
Mike L., replaced his older brother Scott, "Bxboro", when he retired.
I guess it all started with myself, Jeff, Scott, and Mike, chasing the Brothers of the FDNY around those busy streets.
No DOUBT, the FDNY had a HUGE Impact on our lives.
These days We owe it ALL to the Members of the FDNY.
A generation or two later, "We say THANK YOU"