I think site member "Irish" (nickname "Dec") enjoyed a couple of days touring the FDNY.
I know one day he spent time with "Johnd248". Johnny D spent some time with him in the Flatbush Section of Brooklyn. "Irish" told me he got a Great tour when "Johnd248" took him around to some of the busiest companies in the city. Of course John took him to Engine 248s quarters where John remembers the days of feeding the fire horses. As I understand it from "Dec", John explained how those horses would prefer the first hay cut of Spring instead of the second and third hay cuts throughout the year.
Actually, it was a Great Day for "Dec", who I might say; "Me Lad is a True Gentleman". They also met the son of retired FDNY member, and NYCFIRE Site member "H & L 147" on here.
After a busy day it was off to Bliss Station, an Irish Bar in Queens. That's where I met up with me lads Johnny "D" and Dec. Tipped a few, and had some great chow.
The next day, Thursday 1/24, was my turn to introduce me "Lad Dec" to the Bronx. After some confusion and delays, "Dec" was able to get onto the number 2/5 train and we met at the Pelhem Pkwy/White Plains Rd Subway Station. Just prior to that, I met up with "mikeindabronx" at our usual Micky Ds. I think Mike put down a Quarter Pounder w/cheese, and I threw down about 3 McDoubles to fill the belly. We spent a lot of time talking about how old we are getting and some of the jobs that have been posted here. Mike had to leave before I was able to pick up "Dec". Dec did tell me that he has checked out Mikes web site though. He says he's got some Great pictures. It's
www.fdnysbravest.com for those that may not know.
Dec and I first took a little tour of the Bronx. He got to see where it all started at Intervale and 169 St. We talked about 82/31 and all the other companies that would operate out of there during those very busy War Years. He saw the new construction around the area and I told him how on Simpson St, the only thing that didn't burn was the police pct. Then he got a picture of the "Tin House" on Boston Rd which was once the quarters of Eng 85 and Lad 59. I told him how there were two of these, one here in the Bronx and the other in Brooklyn.
So he got picturs of 82/31, 85/59.... Tin House, 46/27, 92/44, and Rescue 3s firehouses. During the tour, I talked so much and told so many stories, he didn't get too much time to ask any questions.
Both Decand myself would really like to Thank FDNY member Bobby "A" for taking the time with us at Rescue 3. I greatly appreciate what he did for our friend from Ireland. Pretty tough to find somebody with 20 years experience on a very busy rescue company like that who is willing to take the time with a couple of guys he doesn't even know. "THANK YOU". And by the way, when we walked into the back of that rig, it sure didn't take long to realize that these guys catch some work. I thought I'd be overcome by the smell of very heavy smoke. Man, was it strong.
Then as it turned out we got to meet "FDNY Dispatcher Tree Tree Oh K". What a Great Guy. I had met him very briefly for a short time about two years ago. I guess he remembered Willy "D". "Tree Tree Oh" and I started to talk about those years gone by in the FDNY too. He's got plenty of stories. And we all sure had a few laughs together. He is one funny guy. Those that know him, I'm sure will agree. He did us a Big Favor, and we really appreciate what he did. He even gave us both a chocolate candy bar for being on our best behavior. Another 20 plus years experienced member of doing his job for the people of the City of New York. Thanks very much "Beefer".
It was getting late and it was off to Donovans in Queens. Once again, the chow was Great. I had the Sherpards Pie, and the entire plate was full. It was Great getting such an Excellent hot meal, on such a cold night. Good thing I don't live near there. I'd be eating there all the time. Me lad enjoyed his meal there too.
After about two hours at Donovans, it was time to bring Dec back to the hotel in lower Manhattan. I sure hope he comes here again. He is really one Great Guy. I'm glad I met him. Only I told him next time come in the spring, not the end of January. With the wind chill factor, coming out of Donovan's it was about 5 degrees out there. As we came out, Brooklyn Companies were battling a Second alarm. I think many of the same companies he had visited before.
I told him, when it comes to the Fire Dept, there's just no other place like the FDNY in the World. Every type of fire and every type of rescue incident happens in New York City. Even brush fires. I told him how I was able to learn so much by just watching these guys operate. And I'm sure I'm not the only one.
We both agreed if there's any question you have on the FDNY, you'll get an answer from somebody on here. I told him since I first heard about this web site and got on, I've met some Great people. They are Active and Retired Firefighters from this Huge City. I met some Great people who buffed this city just like I did, some of whom are/were firefighters themselves from various parts of the country. From a High Ranking Military Officer to a Supervisoring Dispatcher and Con Ed supervisor. And guys like you Dec. Young guys that are really good people, who have a big interest in the FDNY and fire departments.
Dec, its certainly been a privilage to meet you. I hope you enjoyed your visit. And I hope we can do it again soon. Bt next time there's a Fourth Alarm going in upper Manhattan, it's time to say; "See you later Johnny "D", me Lad Willy and I, are going to chase some fires".
).