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"WE ARE FDNY": DEPARTMENT UNVEILS ITS LATEST CAMPAIGN, HIGHLIGHTING THE DIVERSITY AND UNIQUE BACKGROUNDS OF ITS MEMBERS
The New York City Fire Department launched its latest “We Are FDNY” campaign, showcasing the diverse stories and backgrounds of its members.
Unveiled at an event on June 25 in the Commissioner Robert O. Lowery Auditorium, the newest poster features 24 individuals representing various bureaus and units within the FDNY.
JULY 2024
FIRE COMMISSIONER Laura Kavanagh
FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER Joseph Pfeifer
ACTING CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT John Esposito
We Are FDNY
Meet
FIREFIGHTER
BRENDAN LORINO
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“When you see this mosaic of people, you will see that despite our varied backgrounds, cultures and experiences, there’s a unifying theme that binds us together: a shared dedication and passion for helping others,” Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh said. “The We Are FDNY campaign represents all of us. It takes the cumulative efforts and collaboration of everyone throughout the agency—from fire operations to EMS dispatch, fire prevention, facilities, technology development to fleet services—to make this the best fire department in the world.” WISH
More on Page 2
Spotlight
FDNY CELEBRATES
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RICHARD HIGH SCHOOL
GRANTED!
FIRE COMMISSIONER LAURA KAVANAGH SWEARS IN 17-YEAR-OLD GIRL AS HONORARY FIREFIGHTER
With her hand raised and a smile on her face, 17-year-old Abigail Leone, who is battling cystic fibrosis, was sworn in as an FDNY honorary firefighter on June 12.
The FDNY partnered with Make-A-Wish Metro New York to turn Abigail’s dream into reality.
Abigail took the Oath of Office, which was administered by Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, and then headed to the Fire Academy to train with members. She’s no stranger to the gear, More on Page 2
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"WE
ARE FDNY": DEPARTMENT UNVEILS ITS LATEST CAMPAIGN, HIGHLIGHTING THE DIVERSITY AND
UNIQUE BACKGROUNDS OF ITS MEMBERS
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Acting Chief of Department John Esposito added: “The We Are FDNY poster campaign is a glimpse into our FDNY family and the many people behind the scenes far from the fire floor or medical emergencies. The poster is a visual representation of our teamwork and a reminder that we are at our best when we work together, supporting one another, learning from each other and building on our shared commitment to excellence and safety.”
The We Are FDNY campaign began in 2008 and has featured more
than 60 members over the course of the various campaign posters, which will be displayed in all Department locations, including firehouses, EMS stations, training academies and civilian offices.
Dr. Kwame Cooper, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, said the We Are FDNY campaign is seen throughout New York City and beyond, especially on social media.
“It brings forth these amazing stories about diversity in which we find out that we have more in common than we have in terms of differences,” Dr. Cooper said. “Each story describes our individual journeys that intersect within our common mission and vision ... to serve the people of New York City.”
The stories behind all 24 poster participants can be read online at joinFDNY.com/WeAreFDNY or by scanning the QR code on page 1. The question-and-answer segments will be featured in this newsletter, across social media and on screensavers for Department computers. n
WISH GRANTED! FIRE COMMISSIONER LAURA KAVANAGH SWEARS IN 17-YEAR-OLD GIRL AS HONORARY FIREFIGHTER
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though: For the last year, Abigail has served as a Fire Explorer for her hometown fire department in Portland, Connecticut.
“Her aspiration to join the FDNY as an honorary firefighter stems from a close bond with a fire captain in her hometown firehouse who has become a friend and father figure to her,” Commissioner Kavanagh said. “We are thrilled to have her with us as she explores what it’s like to be a member of the FDNY.”
“Being here, right now, it’s very overwhelming, and I think to be offered what she has been offered today has just been a wonderful experience for her,” said Abigail’s mother, Elizabeth Raiola.
The FDNY proudly welcomes Abigail and her family to the Department. n
FDNY CELEBRATES CAPTAIN VERNON A. RICHARD HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2024
The FDNY held a graduation ceremony for the Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety Class of 2024 on June 26 at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall’s Island.
“Throughout unprecedented times marked by disruptions caused by the pandemic, you have already learned about the unpredictability in life,” Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh told the class. “In the midst of your first year, the usual routines—spending time with friends and family, going out and simply being a regular teenager— came to a halt. Despite these challenges, you persevered, and your graduation today is a testament to your adaptability and resilience, two traits that are essential in the FDNY. ... As you consider what shape your future will take, I encourage you to carry the spirit of community forward with you. It’s not just about being part of one, but actively participating and contributing to make it better.”
The 2024 class is the 17th to graduate from the FDNY High School. To date, 101 graduates have been hired by the Department and currently serve as EMTs, paramedics and firefighters. n
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(1) The FDNY Bravest Boxing took on boxers from the Atlanta Police Department and Atlanta Fire Department in the eighth-annual “Thrilla in Camilla” on June 28 at St. Camillus Church. The event raised $50,000 for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. (2) New stair climbers were distributed on June 10 following the second-annual FDNY Foundation Climb to SUMMIT at One Vanderbilt in Manhattan. In April, climbers raced up 1,100 feet to the top of the building. The FDNY Foundation partnered with SL Green Realty Corp. To raise money for purchase the stair climbers, which were distributed to firehouses and EMS stations. (3) The FDNY welcome 154 probationary EMTs at a graduation ceremony on June 11. The graduating class trained for 16 weeks at the EMS Academy and includes 14 members of the FDNY’s Youth Alumni Program and 11 military veterans. To date, 181 FDNY youth members have been hired as a cadets, EMTs, paramedics and firefighters. (4) Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh joined the United Women Firefighters on June 24 for the annual memorial mass to honor the memory of all FDNY women firefighters and fire officers who have died. (5) Captain John Bruen, of Ladder 83, and Captain John Santangelo, of Division 11, spend time with students during a visit last month. Students learned about fire safety and got to try out some of the equipment members use on the job. (6) Chief Tom Fitzgerald retired on June 15 after 37 years on the job. He began his career in the Bronx at Ladder 37. The FDNY thanks Chief Fitzgerald for his decades of service to New York City and wishes him a happy and healthy retirement. n
Meet FIREFIGHTER BRENDAN LORINO
1. What is your name, title and years at FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?
My name is Firefighter Brendan Lorino. I started with FDNY in 2008. I was assigned to Engine 48 in the Bronx. I was there for about 15 years and then six months ago, in early 2024, I transferred into the Marine Operations Unit. In the Marine Unit, we respond to several maritime emergencies. NYC offers 400 miles of coastline. We respond to boat fires, vessels that run aground and vessels that break down, as well as people in the water and in distress. Our job is to assist anyone in distress and keep everyone safe on NYC waters.
2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?
I have always liked being able to help people who need assistance. As a young child, I remember seeing firefighters responding to emergencies, and it stayed with me. My brother became a NYC firefighter. Hearing stories about the FDNY and visiting the firehouse inspired me to want to be part of this group of dedicated individuals. I followed in his footsteps and made the best choice of my life!
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?
Sharing two back-to-back medals with my firehouse at FDNY Medal Day has been an incredible and memorable honor. For 2023 and 2024 FDNY Medal Day, Engine Company 48, which I served with until last year, was awarded the Lt. James Curran New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation/Father Julian F. Deeken Memorial Medal.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
We Are FDNY means as a big group of individuals from different backgrounds, we have a common goal, and that goal is to get the job done no matter what it takes, under any circumstance. No matter what the task in front of us is, we are going to get it done, professionally and efficiently. This mentality starts at the FDNY Fire Academy, where complete strangers learn to work flawlessly with each other and rely on each other, achieving the “we play to win” mindset. Our training and no-fail attitude define who we are.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
I feel that I have a drive to be successful. If there’s something that needs to get done, I will get it done no matter what it takes.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
NYC has over 400 miles of coastline, with water surrounding every borough. We respond to all kinds of emergencies on the water every single day. Our goal is to keep the public safe on NYC waters, and through our rigorous training, we are ready for virtually any waterborne emergency that may arise, including lifesaving and distress calls, 24/7. n
STREET renamed FOR FIREFIGHTER WILLIAM "BILLY" MOON II
Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, FDNY members, family and friends attended a memorial street renaming in honor of Firefighter William “Billy” Moon II on June 23 in Islip. The corner of Franklin Street and Webster Avenue is now known as Firefighter Billy Moon’s Way. Firefighter Moon suffered a serious head injury during a training accident, and his family made a decision to donate his organs and save the lives of five people, including two retired FDNY members. Firefighter Moon was a 21-year veteran of the Department. n
HAPPY TRAILS! FDNY CELEBRATES TWO MEMBERS WITH RETIREMENT WALKOUTS
Happy trails to two long-serving members of the New York City Fire Department! The FDNY held retirement walkouts on June 26, honoring two members and their combined more than 80 years with New York City.
Assistant Commissioner Evelyn Tesoriero began her career with the Department in 1982 and served in several positions before becoming the senior family liaison of the Family Assistance Center following the attacks of September 11th. The Family Assistance Center has evolved since its inception, and Evelyn and the entire unit have been there for families at their most vulnerable times.
Fire Code Council Julian Bazel worked for the City of New York before joining the FDNY in 1997. He provided legal counsel to the Department, supporting the work of all bureaus and units. One of Julian’s legacies is his work modernizing the City’s Fire Code in 2008—it was the first comprehensive revision of the code in almost 100 years. The new code placed a greater emphasis on enhanced safety for the general public and first responders. n
Safety considerations at low-intake highexhaust fires impacted by wind with FDNY Chief of Safety Michael Meyers and Deputy Chief James Canty.
“When you get sworn in, you’re not the same person that started.”
From the Bureau of Fire Prevention to firefighters, EMTs and other members, the FDNY was out in full force, working around the clock to ensure a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday for all of New York City. Check out some of the best photos from the July 4 celebrations by scanning the QR code above. n
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Throwback FDNY to the 2024 NYC Fire Museum Golf Outing at the Muttontown Club on Long Island.
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