PAID ERA CHIEF ENGINEERS
The Chief Engineer is now called Chief of Department
David I. Turnbull: March 20 1890 - May 5, 1890 [Partially Paid Department]
John Stagg: May 6, 1891 - July 1, 1912
Thomas L. Coyle: July 1, 1912 - September 1, 1946
James J. Troy: September 1, 1946 - January 10, 1951 (died in office)
G. Hobart Strathearn: February 1, 1952 - April 29, 1959 (died in office)
Harold J. Kane: April 14, 1960 - January 6, 1984
William J. Comer: February 22, 1985 - February 28, 1990
John A. Mauro: April 9, 1990 - January 1, 1996
James Pasquariello: January 1, 1998 - February 1, 2004
Michael Postorino: February 5, 2005 -December 31, 2017
Brian J. McDermott: January 1, 2018 -
John Stagg: May 6, 1891 - July 1, 1912
Thomas L. Coyle: July 1, 1912 - September 1, 1946
James J. Troy: September 1, 1946 - January 10, 1951 (died in office)
G. Hobart Strathearn: February 1, 1952 - April 29, 1959 (died in office)
Harold J. Kane: April 14, 1960 - January 6, 1984
William J. Comer: February 22, 1985 - February 28, 1990
John A. Mauro: April 9, 1990 - January 1, 1996
James Pasquariello: January 1, 1998 - February 1, 2004
Michael Postorino: February 5, 2005 -December 31, 2017
Brian J. McDermott: January 1, 2018 -
Chief David I. Turnbull
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Chief Turnbull was a longtime member of Paterson's Volunteer Fire Department and served a two year term of Chief Engineer in 1877 (seen at right). In the year 1888 the board of aldermen took away from the companies the election of chief and assistant engineers, and in May, 1889, appointed David I. Trumbull chief (seen below) and John F. Murphy assistant chief engineer. |
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Fire gong installed in Chief Turnbull's home (June 20, 1877) - first chief to receive one
Press
May 6, 1889 - David Turnbull as first chief elected by Aldermen - He was the last Chief of the Volunteer Department and would be first Chief of Paid department (albeit transiently)
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May 7 Paterson Daily Press
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May 17 Paterson Daily Press
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During 1889 the department was reorganized by a special committee consisting of Aldermen Macdonald, Miller and Kearney, and a paid department succeeded the volunteer system on March, 20th, 1890, with four permanent men in nine engine and three hook and ladder companies, and eight call men to each. Shown below is Chief Turnbull's helmet from his tenure as a Chief (1877-90) in the volunteer and early paid department. The helmet is in the Smithsonian Museum collection |
May 5, 1890: Chief Turnbull resigns
May 6 Paterson Daily Press
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David Turnbull resigned as Chief Engineer on May 5th, 1890, and Assistant Chief John Murphy was appointed (as acting chief) to fill vacancy of Turnbull's term. John Struck became Murphy's Assistant Chief. Murphy served in that role until May 1891
John Gillmore succeeded John Crotty as assistant chief engineer 
May 6 Paterson Daily Press
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Acting Chief Murphy October 12 Paterson News curtesy Dennis Morrison
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March 5, 1897: News reporting imminent death of Chief John Murphy
Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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December 16, 1917: Death of Chief Turnbull
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Chief John Stagg
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The Legislature, in the spring of 1891, passed a law making the office of chief and assistant engineers during good behavior, and on May 6, 1891, John Stagg was elected chief and James Mills assistant engineer. In June, 1891, Assistant John Gillmer resigned and was reappointed under the law of 1891. Stagg was born in that city December 16th, 1843 and was educated in the public schools of his native city. In 1857 he went to work in the Guardian office and carried papers for about three years, working all day in the office and carrying papers evenings at a salary of $1.25 a week, but that was considered good pay in those days. |
1891 - 1912
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Chief's signature in his copy of the 1894 "Records of the Paterson Fire Association" book
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He worked in the job department of the Guardian until 1862, when he enlisted in Company A, 11th New Jersey Volunteers commanded by Captain Phil Kearney (a cousin of the famous General). He served with the 11th Regiment as private, corporal, sergeant and quartermaster sergeant until,
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when before Petersburg in 1864, he was transferred to the First Michigan Cavalry, commanded by General Peter Stagg. He was at once promoted to second lieutenant and soon after to first lieutenant and aid-de-camp on his brother's staff, and served as such in the cavalry raid through the Shenandoah Valley and around Richmond until the close of the war. The brigade was then ordered to Utah on special service and shortly after, in April, 1866, was mustered out.
Mr. Stagg then drifted up into the gold mines in Montana and "roughed it' until September, 1868, when he returned to Paterson. He was immediately employed at his old place in the Chairman's office and, pulling of his coat and rolling up his sleeves, went to work as if he had been there the day before, instead of having gone through four years of the most exciting sort of life, full of hair-breadth escapes in battle, skirmish and raid, two years of which were literally in the saddle. Afterwards he was business manager of the Morning Call, which he continued until appointed chief engineer of the present department, May 6th, 1891.
He joined Passaic Engine Co. No. 1 the same year he returned to Paterson (1868), and was an active fireman ever since. He was always foremost in everything appertaining to the department, rarely missing a fire in over twenty years. He served as secretary and foreman of his company, and was elected chief in 1887 after one of the most stubborn and hotly contested campaigns ever known in Paterson.
Soon after his appointment his good judgment is credited with saving many thousands of dollars worth of property at the disastrous fire at Grant Locomotive Works. An October 2, 1887 Morning Call review stated "he is always shown to great advantage in sudden emergencies when indecision or lack of promptness would be fatal."
He joined Passaic Engine Co. No. 1 the same year he returned to Paterson (1868), and was an active fireman ever since. He was always foremost in everything appertaining to the department, rarely missing a fire in over twenty years. He served as secretary and foreman of his company, and was elected chief in 1887 after one of the most stubborn and hotly contested campaigns ever known in Paterson.
Soon after his appointment his good judgment is credited with saving many thousands of dollars worth of property at the disastrous fire at Grant Locomotive Works. An October 2, 1887 Morning Call review stated "he is always shown to great advantage in sudden emergencies when indecision or lack of promptness would be fatal."
Courtesy Dennis Morison
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August 10, 1888: Spectacular gold badge presentation to John Stagg when he was Chief of Volunteer Department
Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
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May 4, 1891: Aldermen meet to appoint the Chief Engineer
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May 4 Guardian
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May 5 Paterson Press
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May 6, 1891: Chief Stagg's first fire 456 Main Street Station 53 (Main & Taylor
Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
May 11, 1891: Chief Stagg quits his newspaper job at Morning Call
Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
May 10 Morning Call
October 11, 1891: Paterson News sketch
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
July 30, 1892: Letter signed by Chief Stagg on PFD stationary
courtesy Jim Eifler
January 5, 1898 - First Chief to use white rubber gear
Paterson Daily Press
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Chief John Stagg
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Chief Stagg was a member of the National Association of Fire Engineers, and took a deep interest in the firemen's organizations, of his state. He also served as the president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. In 1910 Chief Stagg had the department purchase its first motorized vehicle, a 1910 Howe Automobile Combination Fire Engine assigned to Engine Company 10 and first motorized chief's gig in 1911.
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Pictured at right is Chief Stagg with his driver George Pfitzenmeier and gig in front of the Hotel Street firehouse which served as headquarters during his tenure. |
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Seen below are the Chiefs of the Paterson Fire Department in 1902: Seated left - right: Assistant Chief James Mills, Chief John Stagg and Assistant Chief John Gilmore at the quarters of Truck Company 1 on Jackson Street
December 16, 1902: Paterson F/F honor Chief Stagg on his 60th birthday as he sits in his new office (of 3 months) on 3rd floor of City Hall.
Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
Paterson Press
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Attesting to his reputation, Chief Stagg was featured in a set of Tobacco Cards
that featured famous fire and police officers
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1887 Newspaper sketch
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August 19, 1905: John Stagg elected President of the International Fire Engineer's Association at its annual convention in Duluth, Minnesota.
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Morning Call - Curtesy Dennis Morrison
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1905 article in Fire Engineering
October 11, 1906: Chief Stagg's wife passes away while they were attending the Annual Meeting of the National Association of Fire Engineers in Dallas Texas. Prestigious honors paid to Chief and Mrs. Stagg on her return cortege to NJ
April 15, 1907: Chief's stationary - Stagg signed orders of a transfer
Chief Stagg signature - Dayspring collection
October 28, 1907: Graphic in Paterson Daily Press for the PFD Annual Parade and Inspection
October 22, 1908: Chief Stagg at a Parade in Passaic
Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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May 16, 1908: Test of Engine 1 steamer with water tower of Truck 2 on Union Street |
Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
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November 17, 1909: Chief Stagg is married
November 18 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
July 1, 1910: Chief assaulted
Press Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
December 3, 1910: Chief Stagg speculates about retirement
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1911: Chief John Stagg tenders resignation
Courtesy Steve Huckins
March 11, 1911: Chief Stagg's ephemera collection
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
April 27, 1911: Chief Stagg asked to stay on a bit longer
Paterson News - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
March 1, 1912: Chief Stagg given a 30 day vacation (to rest)
Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 1912 article in the Press Civil War photo as well as sitting at his desk then located at 10 Hamilton Street Firehouse (house of Chemical Engine 1)
July 1, 1912:
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
July 30, 1912: Badge alteration
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
December 12, 1916: Chief Stagg illness reported
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Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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January 16, 1916:
The Press - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
February 26, 1921: Chief Stagg holding his own
Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
June 11, 1926: Chief Stagg passed away
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Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Fire and Water Engineering 1926
1935 10th Annual Ball Firemen's Booster
1935 10th Annual Ball Firemen's Booster -- Dayspring Collection
1935 10th Annual Ball Firemen's Booster -- Dayspring Collection
Chief Stagg's helmet from the Volunteer era now resides in the Smithsonian museum is shown below. On January 1, 1948 it was present to News publisher Harry B Haines
January 2, 1948 Paterson News
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Chief Thomas Coyle
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Chief Thomas Coyle joined the department February 1, 1904 and became the youngest Chief Engineer in department history with his appointment to Chief on July 1, 1912 which coincided with the March 19 opening of the new central fire headquarters at 115 Van Houten Street and the retirement of Chief Stagg. Appointment made permanent on November 1, 1912
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Thomas Coyle
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January 30 Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morison
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January 17, 1907: FF Thomas Coyle then of Engine 6 has a near LODD experience at a fire at Schlumpf's Hall on 26, 32-36 Cross Street
January 18 Morning Call
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January 18 Paterson Daily Press
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Coyle saw service at Engine Company 1, 6 and 10 and rose to Chief from the rank of Lieutenant, having never served in any other officer's rank. The article below indicates he did an apprenticeship at the new headquarters (115 Van Houten Street) prior to taking command. |
Lieutenant Coyle E 1- 1908
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June 18, 1912 Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Newspaper photo of newly appointed Thomas Coyle in his white coat and helmet a 5AM second alarm fire scene (166 River Street) 4 days after becoming Chief.
courtesy dennis Morrison
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He was the first chief to never use a horse drawn gig. He was also the longest serving Chief Engineer with a 34 year career that ended with his retirement on September 1, 1946. Chief Coyle drastically upgraded the PFD by motorizing every apparatus and then ushering the Ahrens Fox apparatus era. He supervised the construction and unveiling of the Memorial Monument at Federal Plaza by the Post Office to Paterson Firemen who had made the Supreme Sacrifice. The Auxiliary Fire Department was established during World War 2 to replace firemen serving their country. |
Paterson Guardian June 8, 1912 - Courtesy Jim Eifler
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1912 - 1946
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Chief Coyle close to retirement
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July 5. 1946 Paterson News
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July 2, 1912: Morning Call article
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Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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At Diskon Department Store fire in 1912: Behind the chief is William Weiss, then secretary to Mayor McBride. Natoli Collection - from July 5, 1946 Paterson News
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July 5, 1946 Paterson News
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Chief Coyle and Driver
1936 Paterson Press Chief for a Day Contest Winner Joe Blaney with Chief Thomas Coyle at Headquarters Chief's Office
Photo at right from July 5, 1946 News is entitled "When Speed Counts" It states: Chief Coyle is a veteran fireman in point of years with the alacrity f a first year man. This manuever has broken ankles for the unvitiated
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Chief Coyle sliding down pole at 115 Van Houten Street on his retirement day
Dayspring Collection
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March 13, 1906 ladder incident with F/F Thomas Coyle of Engine 6
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March 20 Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 6 Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
April 1, 1946: Retirement gift for Chief Coyle
Morning Call - courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 5, 1946: Coyle prepares for retirement
Paterson Evening Newx
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July 10, 1946: Fire and Police Commission order retirement of Chief Coyle and others
July 10 Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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FMBA Picnic circa 1952-55: Left-right: Retired Captain Sam Simonton, Retired Chief Thomas Coyle, Master Mechanic John Lawless and then Battalion Chief Joseph Dayspring
April 10, 1959: Chief Coyle passes away
Hancock Collection
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Paterson Evening News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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The following clippings were in the January 18, 1935 FMBA Tenth Annual Ball Firemen's Booster program
1935 10th Annual Ball Firemen's Booster
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1935 10th Annual Ball Firemen's Booster -- Dayspring Collection
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Dayspring Collection
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Dayspring Collection
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Chief James J. Troy
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James "Jimmy" Troy was appointed on July 1, 1916, became a Captain (Engine 11) on June 16, 1921, Battalion Chief in April on March 31, 1938 and Deputy Chief on March 1, 1942. He became Chief Engineer on the day of Chief Coyle's retirement on September 1, 1946. He served until January 10, 1951. He is pictured below with his aide Joseph Dow with the new Cadillac gig at the quarters of Engine Company 13 (whose Ahrens Fox apparatus is seen in background) and Truck Company 1 on 23rd Avenue. Modernization began under Chief Troy when the city purchased two new Mack 1000 GPM pumpers for Engine Companies 5 and 12. Chief Troy died suddenly on January 10, 1951
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1946 - 1951
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James Troy was granted a leave of absence to enter the US Army during WWI. He saw service with the Allied Expeditionary Force in France and was badly gassed in the Argonne. He was discharged with the rank of Sergeant Major in May of 1919.
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Chief
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Battalion Chief photo
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Deputy Chief
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June 5, 1941: "Junior Chief Fire Week" - Joe Troy, son of then BC James Troy
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
October 7, 1945: Chief Troy's son Charles killed in action at Iwo Jima
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Chief Troy passed suddenly on January 10, 1951 and below from the Journal of Engine Company 1 at 115 Van Houten Street is official 11:45 PM announcement from Fire Alarm Office
Dayspring Collection
January 11 orders from Acting Chief Kennedy on funeral from the Journal of Engine Company 1 at 115 Van Houten Street re the "late" James J. Troy - all firefighters ("A and B" shifts to assemble at Engine Company 7 on Gould Avenue on January 12, 7:30 PM to pay their last respects
Dayspring Collection
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January 15, 1951 - Funeral
Morning Call Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Deputy Chief James Kennedy became the acting Chief of Department on March 1, 1951. Under his short tenure, a new FWD pumper was then purchased for Engine Company 12, powerful enough to navigate the Northside hills and their Mack pumper went to Engine Company 1.
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James Kennedy
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Chief G. Hobart Strathearn
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Chief G. Hobart "Hobie" Strathearn was appointed Chief Engineer on February 1, 1952 and served until his death on April 21, 1959. Enlisted at age 17 and served as a Coxswain in US Navy May 3, 1917 thru October 1919. Spent 18 months in foreign waters and saw duty on Battleship USS Idaho |
Chief Engineer 1952 - 1959
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Appointed: June 1, 1922 - assigned to Engine Co. 5 "B" shift
May 1, 1924 - transferred to Engine Co. 7 "A" shift
May 24, 1924 - transferred to Engine Co. 4 "B" shift
February 22, 1926 - transferred to Engine Co 3 "A" shift
January 2, 1928 - transferred to Engine Co. 5 "A" shift
February 16, 1930 - promoted to Captain Engine Co. 9 "A" shift
May 16, 1938 - transferred to Truck Co. 2 "A" shift
July 1, 1940 - promoted to Battalion Chief on "A" shift
September 1, 1946 - promoted to Deputy Chief "A" shift
May 1, 1924 - transferred to Engine Co. 7 "A" shift
May 24, 1924 - transferred to Engine Co. 4 "B" shift
February 22, 1926 - transferred to Engine Co 3 "A" shift
January 2, 1928 - transferred to Engine Co. 5 "A" shift
February 16, 1930 - promoted to Captain Engine Co. 9 "A" shift
May 16, 1938 - transferred to Truck Co. 2 "A" shift
July 1, 1940 - promoted to Battalion Chief on "A" shift
September 1, 1946 - promoted to Deputy Chief "A" shift
1940 photo as Battalion Chief
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1949 photo as deputy Chief
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Strathearn Chief Badge
Vince Marchese Photo
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January 8, 1952: Fire and Police Commission names Hobart Strathearn as Acting Chief Engineer and asks NJ Civil Service to make the elevation permanent.
January 9 Paterson Evening News
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April 27, 1944: Deputy Chief Strathearn required surgery for job related injury
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October 23, 1951: DC Strathearn receives prestigious Oscar Red Feather Award from United Community Chest
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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February 14, 1952: Fire and Police Commission appoint Strathearn as Chief Engineer
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
February 16, 1952: Chief Strathearn sworn in
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February 18, 1952 Morning Call, Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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February 18, 1952 Morning Call, Courtesy Dennis Morrison
April 3, 1952: Testimonial Dinner to the new chief - at Robin Hood Inn in Clifton. Captain Joseph Dayspring is the toastmaster. Clips are courtesy of Dennis Morrison.
April 4 Paterson Evening News
Morning Call
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August  2, 1953   105 River Street  4th alarm fire at Marcus FurnitureÂ
December 1, 1952: Summary of Chief Strathearn's actions in his first year as Chief of Department. To read the full article CLICK HERE and scroll to December 1952
Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
1954 (early): advertisement featuring Chief Strathearn and the installation of overhead doors at FH bays
Courtesy Pat Kirwin Hendersen
Significant apparatus replacement and the end of Paterson's Ahrens Fox era occurred first with the purchase of 6 new Seagrave 750 GPM pumpers in 1953 that were assigned to Engine Companies 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 10 and then 5 new 1957 FWD Special pumpers that went to Engine Companies 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6 in January of 1958. A new FWD aerial was bought in 1952 and two new FWD aerial tractors in 1954. The first Rescue company was also established.
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Chief Strathearn & Mayor Titus
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1958 Oldsmobie "88" gig used by Chief Strathearn - Frank Malzone photo enhanced by Vince Marchese
Hancock Collection
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Hancock Collection
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After the sudden death of Chief Strathearn on April 21, 1959, Deputy Chief Joseph Bray at right) became acting chief.
Joseph Bray as a Battalion Chief
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Chief Harold J. Kane
1960 - 1984
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Chief Harold J. Kane was appointed Chief Engineer in an unusual election process by the Fire and Police Commissioners on April 14, 1960. In the required civil service exam Kane finished 3rd behind deputy chiefs Joseph Dayspring and Lester Titus. Chief Kane served until his retirement on January 6, 1984. His tenure was highlighted by the opening of four new firehouses: the Riverside Firehouse on Lafayette Street, the Lakeview firehouse on Trenton Avenue, the Southside firehouse on Getty Avenue, and the Hillcrest Firehouse on Union Avenue. He also introduced the "Snorkel and Telesquirt" type apparatus, upgraded the Truck Companies, started the Squad and the ambulance division.
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Appointed PFD - November 1, 1942 - assigned to Engine 1
Served US Navy as Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd class 1943-46
Aerial gunner in Pacific Fleet Squadron VBP 104
Air Medal & Presidential Unit Citation with 2 stars
Pacific Theater of Operation citation
Returned to PFD duty August 1946
Chief's aide December 1, 1947
Captain March 1, 1953
Battalion Chief July 1, 1957
Deputy Chief (drillmaster) July 1, 1958
Chief April 14, 1960
Retired October 1, 1984
Director of Public Safety 1984-1987
Served US Navy as Aviation Machinist Mate 3rd class 1943-46
Aerial gunner in Pacific Fleet Squadron VBP 104
Air Medal & Presidential Unit Citation with 2 stars
Pacific Theater of Operation citation
Returned to PFD duty August 1946
Chief's aide December 1, 1947
Captain March 1, 1953
Battalion Chief July 1, 1957
Deputy Chief (drillmaster) July 1, 1958
Chief April 14, 1960
Retired October 1, 1984
Director of Public Safety 1984-1987
1949 Ball Book - Chief Aides
May 2, 1957: Civil Service Battalion Chief list released, topped by ten Captain Harold Kane
Paterson News
October 15, 1957: Dinner to honor their promotion in 1957 to BC
Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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October 27, 1960: Testimonial dinner at Brownstone
August 25 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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October 28 Paterson Evening News
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He is seen below at a fire scene and with his Chief's Aide, fireman Tony Ziza.
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Cief Lane and his former Chief's Aide FF Tony Ziza
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Harold Kane was appointed to the department November 1, 1942 and was assigned Badge # 23. He initially served as a Chief's driver. During World War II he served as an Aviation Machinist Mate in US Navy from March 1, 1943 thru August 27, 1946. He received an Air Medal Presidential Unit Citation with Star. He was wounded and not able to return to the department until 1953, when he was promoted to Captain of Engine Company 4. Also served Truck 2. He became a Battalion Chief in 1957, Deputy Chief in 1958 and Chief in 1960. He retired January 6, 1984 when he became Paterson's Director of Public Safety until 1987. He died on November 21, 2011.
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As a fireman
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Battalion Chief Kane
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Director of Public Safety 1987
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At Trck 2 in Headquarters: FF Dan Dowd, Thomas "Big T" Hanenberg, Captain Kane and Alfred "Ollie" Gallagher
Donating blood
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May 7, 1968 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1968 Ball Book - Chief's Staff - Captain Ferd Pelleschia, DC Al Capter, DS Reines, Chief Kane, Captain Bauer, Captain Bill Flynn, Frank Moore, A Corsetto, C Grossi, Russel Stephenson
Photo at Headquarters on Van Houten Street
December 23, 1983: Retirement dinner
Paterson News - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
December 27, 1983: Chief Kane retires - Last working day was January 6, 1984. Official Retirement Date was October 1, 1984
Paterson News - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Exempt Certificate
Obituary
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November 23, 2011 News Clip
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Chief William J. Comer
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William Comer was appointed Chief Engineer on February 22, 1985 after the department cycled several assistant chiefs, including himself starting in July1984, as Acting Chief for over a year after Chief Kane's retirement. His official photo at left highlights a dramatic uniform code departure in that he was the first Chief Engineer to sport an embroidered cap visor and display "military" type insignia's on his uniform. He was well known in firefighting circles and was the last of the more traditional Chiefs. His father |
Michael was also a Paterson fireman who achieved the rank of Battalion Chief. He served in the U.S. Navy – July 1, 1942 until September 29, 1945 where he received an Honorable Discharge as an Aviation Machinist Mate, 1ST Class – Flight Engineer Naval Air Transport. Saw duty at Normandy and Anzio. He received a US Navy Commendation Medal.
January 8, 1946: Auxiliary F/F William Comer, injured (foot laceration) at a fire on 23 Maryland Avenue.
January 9 Paterson News
December 1, 1967
December 13 Paterson Evening News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1971
October 16 Paterson Evening News
1961 - Radio installed in Engine 5 - FF Joseph Forbes driving and Captain Comer on radio
AC Comer at fire scene - late 1960s - Malzone photo
February 1, 1985
Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Newspaper photos of William Comer and Deputy Chief wearing Captain's and Deputy, not as labeled Assistant Chief's, uniform cap)
Hancock Collection
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Hancock Collection
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Eifler Collection
Installation Dinner
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Chief with Mike Vemntimiglia
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Chief Comer at work on top of Satellite 9
Unknown Fire Scene -- Eifler Collection
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He was temporarily appointed to Paterson's Auxiliary Fire department from October 16, 1945 to April 16, 1947 and then permanently appointed to on September 1, 1947. He first served as a Chief's aide:
Lieutenant: February 1, 1951 (E5) Captain: September 1, 1960 (E5) Deputy Chief: June 1, 1963 Assistant Chief: December 1, 1967 Retired: February 28, 1990 
Chief with gig at Madison Avenue Firehouse
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Chief Comer's E5 Captain's helmet
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Chief Comer's Deputy Chief Helmet with Burke Eye Shield
1984: Presentation helmet to Chief Comer from Cairns and Brothers - the first NFPA Production 5A helmet ever made.
Eifler Collection
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Eifler Collection
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June 1983: Great Falls rescue
Hancock Collection
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Eifler Collection
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1987 Dedication Plaque
hung on the wall in the hallway leading to the stairway that went up to the Chiefs Office in Madison Avenue Firehouse
June 5, 1994 Herald
The Herald - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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June 8, 1999: Newspaper report of Chief Comer's death on June 6, 1999. Article mistakenly states he had received a Purple Heart.
June 9, 1999: Article re Chief Comer's death
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
June 9 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
June 11 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
Holy Sepluchre
Chief John A. Mauro
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Chief John Mauro's tenure as Chief Engineer was from April 1, 1990 to Jan 1, 1996, and he was the first of the "NEW ERA" Chiefs. He corresponded with other departments and viewed the fire world outside the Paterson Fire Department. Tradition has to be handled delicately and takes a leader with an open mind......Chief Mauro had that open mind and opened the door for the modernization of the department. His most notable accomplishments were reestablishing Rescue 1 and reorganizing radio communications.
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April 5, 1990 Herald - courtesy Dennis Morrison
Feb. 1971 - Chief's Driver of 2nd Bat., Car # 74, Tour 1. Badge # 251
Battalion Chief Mauro at Straight Street house fire late 1970s
Todd Hollritt photo
D/C Joe Pellegrino & Chief Mauro - Hollritt photo
Chief John Mauro Helmet
IAF Certififucate
Office Door Sign
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Appointments:
September 27, 1963: Fireman Badge # 251 Served on Engine 11 and as Chief's Aide July 1, 1972: Captain Engine 9/Rescue 1 October 1977 Battalion Chief March 1984: Director of Emergency Medical Services June 1987: Deputy Chief April 1990 Chief Engineer January 1996: Retired January 2006: Deputy Director office of Emergency Management: Paterson, NJ 
DC Mauro (Malzone photo)
As a Battalion Chief
Chief John Mauro Uniform Cap & Badge
Chief Mauro's Badge
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March 26, 1992 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Between Chief Mauro's retirement and the appointment of Chief Pasquariello, Deputy Chief Norman T. Morley was the Acting Chief of the Department. 1996-1997 |
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June 4, 2017- Memorial Service - retired AC Joseph Forbes and retired Chief John Mauro -- Marchese photo
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1971 PFD photo
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June 30, 2017: A dedication plaque commemorating Chief Mauro's Service added to Engine 7, quartered at McBride Avenue
L-R. Nancy Mauro (wife of Fire Fighter Michael Mauro), FF Michael Mauro, Alex Mauro (son of Captain John Mauro, Jr.), Captain John Mauro, Jr and Chief Mauro's daughter, Maryanne Mauro. Up front is Chief Mauro and his wife Anne.
June 3, 2018: Memorial Service at McBride Avenue firehouse
Plaque on Engine 7
Chief Mauro with his two sons: FF Michael Mauro at left and Captain John Mauro at right
Chief James K. Pasquariello
Chief Pasquariello was appointed August 1, 1968 and retired February 1, 2004. He had risen through the ranks as a highly respected firefighter. As Chief, he formed and headed a board that significantly changed the Standard Operational Procedures of the PFD and revamped the Alarm Assignments, which was a complex undertaking, boldly defying years of tradition. When interviewed for this web site Chief Pasquariello stated: "To me it was the best job in the world, and I worked with some of the finest men I have ever known."
The picture below show that he was the first Chief to transition to a white cap.
The picture below show that he was the first Chief to transition to a white cap.
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1989 Ball Book
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Deputy Chief
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This photo at right is of Fire Chaplain Fr. John Piccione (R.I.P), Chief of Department James K. Pasquariello, and famous FDNY Fire Chaplain Fr. Mychal Judge (R.I.P.). Father Judge was the first reported casualty at Ground Zero on 9/11.
August 1, 1968
Photos below display him in action as a young firefighter, on a ladder holding the pike pole (with fireman Michael Ventimiglia) and as Chief at a fire scene.
Truck 3 Snorkel with FF George Krehel.
April 10, 1980 Madison and Broadway - FF photo
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Captain Truck 3 - March 1986
Pasquariello promoted to Captain - with William Filippeli and Mayor Kramer
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March 1986 - As Captain of Truck 3 - FF Michael Ventimiglia at right
Chief Engineer
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On the job
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1971 Ladder 1 Tour 4
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Appointments:
August 1, 1968: Fireman Had badge # 134 August 1, 1980: Captain February 19, 1988: Battalion Chief June 3, 1994: Deputy Chief October 31, 1997: Chief Engineer February 1, 2004: retired |
October 31, 1997 - Swearing in ceremony
November 1 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Dayspring Collection
February 1, 2004 - Retirement
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Record courtesy Dennis Morrfson
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Plaque on Ladder 3 - 2005 E-One tiller
Chief Michael Postorino
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Chief Postorino was appointed to the department May 15, 1989. In 2004 he became Chief of Department and has ushered in the Paterson Fire Department's "NEW ERA". Chief Postorino has continued to craft the PFD into a state of the art fire department. His list of accomplishments are many (see list below), but among the most significant are the construction of a new state of the art headquarters, updating the apparatus fleet, and bringing new equipment and technology to the department. He, along with all other current Fire Department Department Chiefs throughout the state has to face the constant battle of maintaining staffing, and in the case of the PFD's depleted forces, has to work at the nearly impossible task of increasing staffing.
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Appointed May 14, 1989 to the Paterson Fire Department
Retired December 31, 2017 |
May 7 2005 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison - Note Thomas Coyle was the youngest Chief in PFD History
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Michael Postorino was appointed to the rank of Chief of Department on at the age of 39, making him one of the youngest fire chiefs in the nation. During tough economic times, the Chief has been able to secure grants, enter into shared service agreements with other municipalities and agencies, and take on additional initiatives to offset costs and generate revenue to actually expand the Fire Department’s table of organization and secure the most up-to-date apparatus, facilities, and equipment. While many fire departments throughout the nation were forced to close firehouses and reduce their work-force via lay-offs and demotions, the Paterson Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Postorino, was actually expanding its workforce and its emergency response capability.
Postorino Helmet shields of Engine 1, Ladder 1 and 2, Engine 8 (Captain) as well as chief ranks
Postorino Badge Collection
FF badge
Deputy Chief Breast Badge
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Captain (Engine Company) Cap Badge
Deputy Chief Cap Badge
Chief Breast Badge
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Battalion Chief Breast Badge
Chief Breast Badge
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Chief Postorino has presently hired over 250 firefighters and promoted 150 members of the rank-and-file to Fire Officers. Currently, members of the Fire Department undertake specialized training in Firefighting, Hazardous Materials, Confined Space, Incident Command, Structural Collapse, Swiftwater Rescue, Ice Rescue, High-angle Rescue, Terrorism Operations, and
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Chief Postorino with Mayor Torres at 2016 Goshen St fire
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Emergency Medical Technician. In addition, Chief Postorino has continued to secure funding to replace the Department’s fleet of apparatus and vehicles. To date under his tenure, the Department has secured 6 Aerial Ladder Trucks, 10 Engine Pumpers, 12 Ambulances, and 15 Chief’s gigs.
Since 2004, he served as a member of the New Jersey Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) and presently serves on the Executive Committee of the New Jersey Urban Search & Rescue Team.
He was appointed in:
He was appointed in:
- 2008 by the Governor to the New Jersey State Fire Protection Equipment Advisory Committee.
- 2014 by the Governor to serve on the New Jersey State Fire Safety Commission.
- 2014 to serve on the New Jersey Regional Operations Intelligence Center (ROIC) Working Group
Press briefing by Chief Postorino at Goshen Street House Explosion 2016
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He was elected to in 2010 to serve as a Trustee on the N.J. Police and Firefighters Retirement System Pension Fund. He was elected in 2011 President of the N.J. Career Fire Chief’s Association. |
Firefighter 1990 Ball Book
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Captain
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Battalion Chief
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Deputy Chief (2003 Ball Book)
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Under the leadership of Chief Postorino, the Department has secured over 40 million dollars in Federal, State, & local grants which was used to procure:
- (2) Heavy Rescue Response Units.
- (2) Mobile Command Response Vehicles with interoperable communication systems.
- A Swift Water rescue boat and train rescue personnel in Swift Water Rescue & Ice Rescue Operations.
- OSHA compliant air-purification systems for each firehouse.
- Scott Pak-Tracker Accountability System which enables Rapid Intervention Crews to electronically track and locate personnel operating at emergency incidents.
- Mobile Data terminals for each frontline apparatus.
- Warning/Alerting Citywide Siren System, inclusive of an AM radio station for emergency broadcast network.
- A Driving Training Simulator to train all personnel in the safe driving of emergency apparatus and vehicles.
- Property and construction of a new state-of-the art firehouse (Fire Headquarters) and Emergency Operations Center.
- New Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all uniformed personnel.
- New SCBA regulators with “quick-connect” fittings for each firefighter.
New Jersey Career Fire Chiefs Association
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The Chief has also implemented:
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May 7, 2010: PFA at the annual ball awards the 2006 Chief John Stagg Meritorious Service Award to Chief Postorino
2010 PFA Ball Book
June 4, 2017: Chief Postorino with new Ladder 3 Pierce aerial at McBride Avenue FH
Vincent Marchese Photo
December 28, 2017: Mayor Williams-Warren announces that Chief Michael Postorino will retire effective December 31, 2020
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December 31 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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December 28, 2017: Chief Postorino at left and his successor Chief Brian McDermott (center) and Deputy Chief (of Operations) Kevin Hancock
Career collage of badges and shields (produced by Captain Scott Parkin)
January 29, 2018: Dedication plaque for new Pierce Arrow Tower Ladder (L1)
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Chief Brian J. McDermott
June 3, 2018: Chief McDermott at the Annual PFD Memorial
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Appointed June 12, 1995 (Graduated the Paterson Fire Department Academy) Engine 6, Tour 2 for 6 months Ladder 1, Tour 2 for several months Ladder 3, Tour 2 until May 2004 |
FF McDermott
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Captain
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Promoted to Captain May 14, 2004 Assignments: Covering Captain Tour 2 Arson/Fire Prevention Captain September 18, 2006 – Rescue 2, Tour 4 |
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Promoted to Battalion Chief September 25, 2009
Covering BC Battalion 2, Tour 3 and Battalion 1, Tour 3 Fire Official* in 2010 assigned to Commanding Officer of Fire Prevention Bureau 2013: Appointed as Executive Officer, remaining as Fire Official Special Operations Chief overseeing technical rescue operations |
Battalion Chief
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* Each municipality has one Fire Official: usually, the head of the Fire Prevention Bureau. Requires completion of 2 state certifications: Fire Inspector & Fire Official. Other states refer to it as a Fire Marshall. Duties are being in charge of (Fire) code enforcement; review/approve construction plans (for fire protection systems; sprinklers/standpipes), cite imminent hazards etc. basically enforce the State fire code.
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Promoted to Deputy Chief November 3, 2014 Promoted to Chief of Department on December 28, 2017, effective January 1, 2018 |
Deputy Chief - Executive Officer - 2016 Ball Book
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Career Badges
Fireman's Badge
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Captain Rescue Company Breast Badge
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Captain Rescue Company Cap Badge
Battalion Chief
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Deputy Chief
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Photo by Vince Marchese July 19, 2018
Chief's Cap and Helmet
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Vince Marchese Photo
Uniform Cap with Badge (5 Crossed Trumpets)
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Vince Marchese Photo
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Vince Marchese Photograph
December 28, 2017: Swearing in ceremony on Chief of Department
Oath administered by Mayor Jane E Williams-Warren
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Oath administered to Chief McDermott by Mayor Jane E. Williams-Warren
(click start & click enlarge icon bottom right) |
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New Chief (still wearing DC Badge)
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Taking the oath from Mayor Williams-Warren (DC Hancock in background)
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Congrats from DC Hancock & Chief Postorino
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Receiving Chief's badge from his wife Shannon McDermott
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Chief Michael Postorino, Chief McDermott and DC Kevin Hancock
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Chief and Family: (L-R) Ashley, Anna, Shannon (Mrs. McDermott), and Katie.
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L-R: Brother Scott (Captain of E8 at JCFD), father Neil, daughters Ashley, Anna, Katie, wife Shannon. Chief, Mayo, Chief Postorino and DC Hancock
Chief and his wife Shannon at swearing in ceremony
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Changing of the guard words from retiring Chief Postorino
Congratulations from the Mayor
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Career Achievements:
Chief McDermott holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Service Administration from the University of Maryland. During Chief McDermott’s tenure, he became the “Heart-and-Soul” of the Rescue Company. He was enrolled in the very first Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training cycle in 2004, and completed the FDNY Rescue Technician certification at Randall’s Island, NYC (2005). In 2006, he was assigned as the Metro USAR Strike Team (MUST) Equipment Manager. He was appointed Vice Chairman of the MUST (2008), and subsequently Chairman in 2009. He was cited for valor numerous times throughout his career for high-profile technical rescues.
In 2014, he was appointed as the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) CBRNE/Fire Sub-Committee Chairman and then appointed as Office of Emergency Management (City of Paterson) Deputy Coordinator. In 2015, he was a founding member of the Fire Terrorism Task Force (FTTF).
November 2021: Becomes Deputy Fire Coordinator for Passaic County
Chief McDermott holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Service Administration from the University of Maryland. During Chief McDermott’s tenure, he became the “Heart-and-Soul” of the Rescue Company. He was enrolled in the very first Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) training cycle in 2004, and completed the FDNY Rescue Technician certification at Randall’s Island, NYC (2005). In 2006, he was assigned as the Metro USAR Strike Team (MUST) Equipment Manager. He was appointed Vice Chairman of the MUST (2008), and subsequently Chairman in 2009. He was cited for valor numerous times throughout his career for high-profile technical rescues.
In 2014, he was appointed as the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) CBRNE/Fire Sub-Committee Chairman and then appointed as Office of Emergency Management (City of Paterson) Deputy Coordinator. In 2015, he was a founding member of the Fire Terrorism Task Force (FTTF).
November 2021: Becomes Deputy Fire Coordinator for Passaic County
January 29, 2018: Promotional ceremony
January 29, 2018
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Honor Guard led by Captain AC Woods
Wife (Shannon) pins on Chief's Badge
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Chief's address
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Master of Ceremony Robert Allen
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Father Patrick Ryan
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Gennesy Cintron with National Anthem
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Mayor Williams-Warren
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City Council President Ruby Cotton
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State Senator and City Business Administrator Nellie Pou
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4 tour Commanders: DC's Pablo DeValle, Michael Fleming, Frank Calamita, William Henderson along with BC Hector Alymeda BC Gabe Aboyoun.
Front row L-R: DC Tasca, DC Morley, Ac Forbes, Chief Mauro, Mrs. Mauro, Mrs. Postorino, Chief Postorino
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Paterson Firefighters & Officers
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L-R daughters Anna, Katie, Chief, wife Shannon, daughter Ashley
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L-R: Brother Scott (Captain at JCFD), Chief, his dad Neil, brother Kevin, and Keith (Lieutenant at Wayne PD)
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Chiefs daughters reading Firemen's Prayer (L-R Katie, Ashley, Anna)
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January 30 Herald
courtesy Dennis Morrison
Celebration at the Brownstone
At ceremony with former Chief John Mauro and DC Norman Morley
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Retired DC Marty Krupinski, Chief McDermott, Retired Captain Greg Lisowski and DC Kevin Hancock
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Chief McDermott & DC Kevin Hancock. The framed Vincent Marchese photo was presented by the PFD History Website
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2018 Version of PFD Group photo presented on behalf pf PFD History Website by photographer Vincent Marchese on July 19, 2018
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Ret. FF James Hughes
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Vince Marchese Photo
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Passaic County Pipes
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Presentation from Deputy Chiefs - Vice Marchese photo
Career Photo Arcade
The Chief has the nickname "Big Country"
9/20/95 Tour #2 General Alarm at Pennsylvania and Alabama Aves. Brian McDermott operating as a Probationary Fireman assigned to Engine 6
Ladder 1 Tour 2 1996
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Ladder 1 Tour 2 1996
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1997: FF Alton Dickson, Captain John Quant, FF Matt Ganci, FF Brian McDermott at Ladder 3. Standing at top is FF Sean Burns.
FFs Matt Ganci & Brian McDermott (Ladder 3)
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FF Brian McDermott at left & Captain Wm Henderson at right side & Captain Alton Dickson on ladder 10/8/1973 75 Henry St
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Covering Captain at L2 - November 27, 2004 - Walnut Street 3rd alarm. Photo after the vent hole was complete. Mask removed halfway down the ladder so as to see way down as the mask got fairly cooked up top, explaining why helmet was in hands. FF Dave Coughlin and Paul Lauer did a stellar job getting that roof open to draw fire from the knee walls below
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Captain L2 - November 27, 2004 - Walnut Street 3rd alarm
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Captain McDermott of Rescue 2
Rescue 2 - circa 2006-2009 F/F’s Chris Tiritilli, Frank Morrell, AJ Woods, Javier Tovar, Captain Brian McDermott and F/F Saul Cintron.
Deputy Chief McDermott and Captain Matt Ganci & FF John Forbes
2011 Fire Scene - DC McDermott and DC Bruce Vander Voort
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In action as Deputy Chief
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Memorial Day Ceremony 2017 - Passaic County Pipe and Drums
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January 17, 2017 - First 3rd Alarm fire under Chief McDermott's watch - with Tour Commander DC William Henderson
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September 18, 2020 - Redwood Ave 4tgh alarm
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May 22, 2022 - Florida Ave 3rd alarm
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First responder Newspaper March 2018 - re January 17, 2017 3rd alarm fire
February 7, 2018 4th alarm Summer St Danzo photo
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February 5, 2018 - Chief McDermott's first General (5th) alarm fire 268 Main Street - with BC A.J Ricciardi & DC Mike Fleming - Bill Tompkins photo
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June 2018 - Chief's Gig - 50 - Rear of McBride Avenue FH - Dayspring photo
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Dayspring photo
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Madison Ave: January 16, 2019 - Peter Danzo photo
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Madison Ave: January 16, 2019 - Peter Danzo photo
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September 25, 2019: Chief McDermott with Car 1 at rear of McBride Avenue firehouse
Dayspring photo
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March 27, 2020 Chadwick Street COVID-19 Haz-Mat Imncident
July 2, 2020: Promotional Ceremony at Headquarters Vince Marchese photo
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April 2-4: HDQTS is COVID 19 testing station
November 8, 2020 Summer Street Bill Tompkins photo
January 9, 2022 - 4th alarm Warren Street
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June 14 2020 - Butler Street 5th alarm - BTF Photo
Children's Easter Event 2021
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2020 Live Facebook Interview
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-Chief Brian J. McDermott and now retired DC Frank Calamita are strategizing at a 5 alarm fire. Great photo by Chris Tompkins.
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July 15, 2021 - Chief on restored 1930 Engine 9 Ahrens Fox pumper (at Headquarters)
Piper at gravesite ceremony of Father Mychal Judge 9/11/2021 - Vince Marchese photo
July 2022 Prospect Park fire
January 27 2023 - Chief McDermott and BC Frank Liscio at press conference detailing 2022 PFD stats
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National CNN exposure regarding a river rescue during hurricane Ida on 9/1/2021
June 5, 2022 - Mayor Andre Sayegh presents City of Paterson Director's Award to Chief McDermott
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