The SUPREME SACRIFICE
Line of Duty Death (LODD)
37 Firefighters
37 names are now on Memorial Monument at Fire Headquarters. Monument reorganization will ultimately be needed to reposition the 37th name added in 2022
(LODD Captain Prince - 1923)
(LODD Captain Prince - 1923)
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Firefighter Name
Company on last call
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Date of Death
(not always same date as fatal incident)
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FF Patrick Brophy Washington Engine 3
FF James Johnson Protection Engine 5 FF John Powers Jackson Engine 4 FF Robert Gedney Cataract Hose 2 FF James H. Moser Engine 1 FF Richard Duffy Truck 1 FF Christopher Murphy Truck 3 FF John C. Lair Engine 2 FF Harry Kelley Engine 7 FF Daniel Leonard Truck 3 Captain William Cook Chemical Engine 1 Captain Cornelius Prince Engine 12 Captain Josiah Barton Engine 8 FF Edward Tribe Engine 4 FF Marinus Baker Engine 1 FF David Johnstone Engine 8 FF John P. O'Neill Engine 9 FF Allen Saal Truck 3 |
November 12, 1865
July 9, 1869 September 10, 1876 March 9, 1884 July 9, 1891 December 6, 1891 May 5, 1893 August 4, 1901 January 22, 1904 January 9, 1906 August 14, 1908 November 6, 1923 January 13, 1928 April 27, 1928 April 27, 1928 April 2, 1931 May 8, 1934 May 9, 1934 |
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Deputy Chief James Sweeney
Captain John Devenport Engine 5 FF William Lynch Engine 5 FF Matthew O'Neill Engine 5 FF Louis Rodesky Engine 5 |
March 12, 1938
March 12, 1938 March 12, 1938 March 12, 1938 March 12, 1938 |
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FF Edward J. Moore Engine 7
FF Charles A. McBennett Engine 1 FF Leo A.Walsh Truck 3 FF William Conklin Engine 4 FF August Schneider Engine 4 Chief's Aid Walter Pitkethly 2nd Battalion Chief's Aid Joseph F Dow Chief's Department Captain Lester Reiche Engine 3 Captain Frank Mancinelli Truck 3 Captain Fred Armona Engine 11 FF Thomas J. Calamita Engine 2 FF John Nicosia Engine 4 FF Walter Bitner Engine 5 FF Scott Rogow Rescue 2 |
July 11, 1938
May 28, 1941 December 24, 1941 April 19, 1942 April 21, 1942 February 20, 1950 July 29, 1951 March 4, 1961 March 4, 1973 April 5, 1975 May 8, 1975 January 17, 1991 October 24, 1998 August 28, 2012 |
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LODD #37 Pin at 2022 Ceremony
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In 1938, after the Quackenbush fire in which 5 firefighters perished, Paterson started planning for a Firemen's Memorial monument to the honor of all Paterson Firemen who lost their lives in the performance of their duty. Immediately after the tragic occurrence, which saddened not only members of the fire department, but the entire populace of the city, the Morning Call sponsored a campaign for funds to honor the memory of these men and those who bravely met similar deaths before them.
December 1, 1938 Paterson News - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Through the generosity of the business men and citizens generally, the fund was brought to a successful conclusion and the Memorial Monument was born. The names of all the members of the Paterson Fire department who gave their lives upholding their oath to protect the lives and property of the citizens of Paterson have been suitably inscribed upon this memorial which serves forever as an honor to the brave men who died in the performance of a sacred duty, as well as in inspiration to their bereaved comrades who must and will carry on.
The monument was placed at Post Office Plaza and formally dedicated on March 12, 1941, then third anniversary of then death of five heroic firemen who met death in the collapse of the Quackenbush warehouse.
The monument was placed at Post Office Plaza and formally dedicated on March 12, 1941, then third anniversary of then death of five heroic firemen who met death in the collapse of the Quackenbush warehouse.
Monument, unveiled in 1941 at Post Office Plaza was subsequently moved to Hillcrest Firehouse on Union Avenue and then to McBride Avenue Headquarters
Monument at Hillcrest Firehouse
McBride Avenue Firehouse - June 15, 2020 - Vince Marchese photo
June 15, 2020 - Vince Marchese photo
June 4 2021
June 5, 2022 - Addition of Captain Cornelius Prince (at bottom) - photo by Vincent Zito
15 Paterson LODD Firefighters made their last call on an Ahrens Fox pumper or aerial
Vincent T Marchese photo - July 15, 2021
Since 1941, the department has had Annual Memorial Remembrances:
Poem written by Assistant Chief Joseph Dayspring after his retirement
At Headquarters is a plaque entitled "Lest We Forget" with brass plates of the LODD firefighters. a
June 29, 2020 Vincent Marchese photo
Lest We Forget Plaque History: Originally B/C Rich Nicholas and Captain Vince Zito had the plaque made. It was placed by the rear door of the Lakeview Firehouse that lead to the classroom which Battalion Chief Richard Nicholas used for new recruits & companies. He wanted the plaque to be visible for people to see when they left the building. Not too long afterwards, the training for the new recruits went from in house to the Passaic County Fire Academy. Battalion Chief Nicholas retired and asked Captain Vincent Zito to care for it. It was ultimately moved to the PFA Office. Later it relocated to the Chief's Office on McBride Ave. The original plaque (and the current version) has the date and names of B/C Nicholas & Vince Zito name on the back.
Also at Headquarters is the Memorial Bell which each year is sounded as the firefighter names are remembered. The bell was formerly that of Engine Company 1
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Base of Memorial Bell
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Volunteer Department (pre-1890) LODD
Firefighter Patrick Brophy
Firefighter Patrick Brophy of Washington Engine Company 3 lost his life while battling a fire on Sunday November 12, 1865 at the Allen Reynolds & Company Tobacco Company on Van Houten Street.
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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November 15 - The Press
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November 15 Press
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Preamble and Resolution of Washington 3
November 15 Press
November 15 Funeral
November 16 Press
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December 11, 1865: Washington Co. 3 appoints committee to act on proposal of Passaic Engine Co. 1 regarding building a monument for LODD firefighter Patrick Brophy
Paterson Press
May 3, 1870: News-clip 5 years after Brophy death
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Daily Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1885 - Death of Brophy's Mother - Courtesy Jim Eifler
Firefighter James Johnson
Firefighter James Johnson was overcome by heat at a fire in the Danforth shop on Market Street fire on July 8, 1866. He died the next day July 9, 1866.
July 9, 1866 - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 9, 1866 - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Firefighter Johnson added to the Monument June 2020
July 8, 2021
Firefighter John Powers
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FF John Powers (age 29) of Jackson Engine 4 on September 9, 1876 responded "on the rope" meaning he was one of the firemen pulling the steamer to Box 24 (Market and Vine Streets) at 10:00 PM for a fire at the Ryder Carpentry shop at Market and Seeley Streets and became ill at the scene, carried home and died just after midnight on September 10, 1876 (likely from a heart attack)
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Jackson Engine Co 4 hand pulled steamer
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September 11, 1876 Paterson Press- Courtesy Jim Eifler
September 11, 1876 Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
FF Powers was added to the Memorial Monument in June 2020
September 9, 2021 - Radio remembrance
Firefighter Robert Gedney
Firefighter Robert Gedney of Cataract Hose Company 2 died on March 9, 1884. Box 21 at Bridge and River Streets sounded on a cold and stormy night for a fire in 2 story house. Fireman Gedney responded from his home - running to the scene. He collapsed on the Arch Street Bridge and died shortly thereafter presumably of a heart attack.
March 10 Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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March 11 Paterson Press - Courtesy Jim Eifler
March 12 Paterson Press - Curtesy Jim Eifler
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March 31 Guardian - Courtesy Jim Eifler
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FF Robert Gedney's name was added to the Memorial Monument on June 2, 2019
March 9, 2021 PFD Radio Broadcast
Partially Paid Department (1890-1895)
LODD
Firefighter James Moser
Firefighter James H Moser Engine Company 1 (call man) was killed by an exploding soda water tank July 9, 1891. He was the son of long-time, famed PFD Volunteer fireman and Chief Engineer (1867) Andrew Moser
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 10 Paterson Press
July 10, 1891 Paterson Press - Moser's age was 38
July 11 Paterson Press
July 9, 2021
Firefighter Richard Duffy
Firefighter Richard Duffy of Truck Company 1 (a call man and long term member of the company) on December 5, 1891 was thrown from a horse-car while responding station 153 (Main Street and Gould Avenue) to join his company at a fire at 308 Getty Avenue suffering severe injuries causing his death the next day after amputation surgery on December 6, 1891. He was treasurer of the Callmen's Association.
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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December 7 Press
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December 7 Guardian
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December 7 Press
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December 9 Paterson Press
December 16, 1891 Patersonb Press
Firefighter Chris Murphy
Firefighter Christopher Murphy of Truck Company 3 (call man), was fatally injured falling from the apparatus on May 2, 1893. Company was responding to Station 354 for a fire on Vreeland Avenue. Murphy slipped while attempting to climb on the rapidly moving hook and ladder truck (at Summer and Ellison Streets) and was run over. He died on May 5, 1893 at St. Joseph's Hospital.
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Paterson Daily Press -- Courtesy Jim Eifler
May 4, 1893 - Paterson Press
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May 5 Paterson Press
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May 6 Paterson News
May 6 Paterson Press
Paterson Daily Press -- Courtesy Jim Eifler
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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May 5, 2021 - Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Paid Department LODD
Firefighter John Lair
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Firefighter John C Lair who had been a member of the Paterson Volunteer Fire Department, serving at Protection Engine Company 5, was one of the original members of the paid PFD, appointed March 1890. On November 22, 1900 as the driver of Engine Company 2, then operating out of the Highland Street firehouse, he fell from the horse drawn hose wagon apparatus while responding to a General Alarm fire at the Ivanhoe Mill and was injured. He never returned to active duty. Eight months later on August 4, 1901, he as reported in the news clip below died of complications from that injury.
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Fore more details on the November 1900 Ivanhoe Mill Fire CLICK HERE
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrtison
August 5, 1901 Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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August 5, 1901: FMBA Resolution
Morning Call - August 7, 1901 - Courtesy Jim Eifler
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August 5 Paterson Press - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Paterson News - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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FF John C. Lair's name was added to the Memorial Monument on June 2, 2019
Firefighter Harry Kelley
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Fireman Harry Kelley of Engine Company 7 died when he fell off a ladder (from Truck Company 3) at the Hinchliffe Brewery General Alarm fire on Friday January 15, 1904. Died on January 22, 1904.
Morning Call - Courtesy of Dennis Morrison
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The newspaper report below was at first optimistic on Fireman Kelley's injury.
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F/F Kelley dies on January 22
January 23 Paterson Evening News Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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January 25, 1904 Funeral announcement
Paterson Daily Press
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Paterson Evening News
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January 26, 1904
Paterson Daily Press
Daniel W. Leonard
F/F Daniel Leonard died of severe injuries sustained when he, while riding on the running board, fell from Truck Company 3 apparatus as it was pulling out of the Godwin Avenue and Auburn Street firehouse, responding to an alarm from Station 644 (Ellison Street and Graham Avenue) for a barn fire at 430 Ellison Street on October 20, 1905. He was hospitalized for several days and discharged to home. Against advice he returned to work in a weakened state and was on duty on the theater detail when he passed out. He never recovered and died at home January 9, 1906.
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Leonard was a veteran of the Civil War in the 69th NYC regiment. In 1868 he became a hoseman at Washington Engine 3 of Paterson's Volunteer department and in 1881 served as Assistant Chief (photo at right). In 1888, as the PFD was starting to professionalize he became a paid driver of Engine 3 Hose Wagon. He remained on the PFD as an original member on March 20, 1890. Transferred to Truck 3 on November 12, 1892. |
Assistant Chief Daniel Leonard in 1881
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October 21, 1905 Morning Call
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January 9, 1906 - F/F Leonard dies
Paterson Evening News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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January 9, 1906: Paterson Daily Press
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January 10, 1906
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January12, 1906
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Paterson Daily Press
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January 12, 1906 Funeral
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January 13 Morning Call
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F/F Leonard's name was added to the Memorial Monument June 6, 2021
Captain William Cook
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Captain William Cook (former PFD volunteer member) in a capacity as Acting Assistant Chief was fatally burned at Zabriske Stables on River Street on August 11, 1908 and died three days later on August 14, 1908. The large bronze plaque shown below hangs in the foyer of the City Hall on Market Street |
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August 11 Paterson News -Curtesy Dennis Morrison
August 12 Paterson Daily Press
August 14 Paterson Daily Press
August 15 Paterson Daily Press
Three days after fire
August 14, 1908: Death reported
Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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August 14 Press - courtesy Jim Eifler
August 15, 1908: Morning Call tribute
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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August 15 Paterson Daily Press
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August 18, 1908: Funeral
Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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September 5, 1908: Fire and Police report correspondence with Cook family
Morning Call
December 22, 1908: Memorial Tablet for Captain Cook to be placed in City Hall lobby
Guardian courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 15, 1909: Dedication of memorial plaque at City Hall foyer
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Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1980 photo
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2021 Photo - BC Mike Cleenput
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August 16, 1909: One year commemorative ceremony
October 31, 1951 - Morning Call editorial on passing of Captain John Crowley who rescued Captain Cook
Broadcast August 11, 2021
Captain Cornelius Prince
November 6, 1923: Captain Cornelius Prince of Engine 12 - dies of heart attack after responding to a fire on North 7 North Main Street. Appointed July 1, 1905. Served at Engine 2, 3, 5 (Engineer), 9 and as Captain (February 14, 1922) at E1 and then E12
Captain Prince as a firefighter at E2 in 1907
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November 7 Passaic Herald
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November 7 Morning Call
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November 7 Paterson News
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Name officially added to Monument on June 5, 2022
Captain Josiah Barton
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January 13, 1928: Captain Josiah Barton, hired in 1895, perishes after commanding Engine Company 8 at a warehouse fire at 55 Market Street. The company, using their brand new Ahrens Fox pumper, was returning from Station 514 (Cross and Passaic Streets) which was sounded at 10:18 AM.
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A later photo of the apparatus un which Captain Barton perished in
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January 13 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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January 13 Paterson Press courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Captain Barton was listed on Memorial Monument June 2020
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Linn Store Fire with 2 FF Deaths
April 27th, 1928 - 3 Alarm Fire
Edward Tribe of Engine 4 and Marinus Baker of Engine 1
Edward Tribe of Engine 4 and Marinus Baker of Engine 1
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Guardian Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Guardian - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Two firemen are dead, two are in serious condition and others and two policemen were treated at hospitals and a dozen other firemen and police officers sustained minor injuries in a three alarm fire that laid in ruins a three-story brick building at 135 Main Street owned by H.B. Stay and occupied by Bernard Liss at the Economy Dry Goods Store. The damage will exceed $100,000.
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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The city was steeped in grief with the -- of the early morning sun by the news of the tragic fire which glorified Fire Chief Thomas Coyle and his brave firemen. Two men Edward Tribe of 11 Nineteenth Avenue and Marinus Baker of 275 Paterson Avenue were killed when the second floor of the building caved in on them. Fireman John Heinzelman of Engine Co. 4 is confined at St. Joseph's Hospital in a critical condition suffering from injuries he sustained in the same manner as his two buddies. The conditions of Captain Eugene Murphy of Engine Company No. 4 was also critical. Others injured taken to St. Joseph's and the General Hospitals are Captain John Holly, Fireman Robert Summers, Chris Garrity, James Carr, John Toomey, John Roche, Joseph Shearer, Raymond Thompson, and William Smith. Police Sergeant William H. Elvin sustained a laceration of the right hand and Officer George Burton a rookie member of the force was overcome by the gas fumes. Two public service linemen are reported to have been injured. Patrolman Newman Stone whose beat covers the fire escaped although he did yeoman service. |
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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County physician William A. Norval announced that Marinus Baker died of a fractured back and suffocation. His back was broken by a beam which rested on his shoulders and back.
Dr. Norval ascribed Tribe's death to suffocation although examination disclosed he had sustained a broken arm and there was a deep ridge across his forehead, nose and face where a fallen beam had struck him. Fireman John Heinzelman (Engine 4) is believed by Dr Norval to be the most severely injured and will be X-rayed tomorrow. It is believed he has several fractured ribs. The county physician stated "he was of the opinion that none of the injured firefighter would die." |
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Mayor Raymond J. Newman ordered the flag at City hall at half mast in honor of Marinus Baker and Edward Tribe who gave their lives in the early morning blaze which burned three stores on Main Street.
In addition to that the executive announced that because of the unfortunate incident he has postponed the annual inspection of the Police and Fire Departments scheduled to be held for a week. He thanked the members of the fire department for the heroic manner in which they worked at the blaze. After remaining at the scene for several hours he did a tour of the hospitals to see the injured men. Accompanying the mayor to the hospital were his secretary Robert Fitzpatrick and Chaplain Reverend Oscar Washenbangh. The mayor spoke to each man thanking them for their great work they had done and expressing the hope they would recover quickly. He left orders with the hospital authorities that the men should be given the best of care |
April 28, 1928: NY Daily News
Daily News Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 27, 2021 - Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Typo - It was Engine 4, not Chemical Engine 4
Firefighter Edward Tribe
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Fireman Edward Tribe of Engine Company 4 was killed at the Linn Economy Drug Store 3rd Alarm fire at 133-135 Main Street on Main Street on April 27, 1928. His widow, Marie A. Tribe was granted his salary as an annual pension on December 28, 1928. |
Edward Tribe
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Courtesy Jim Eifler - May 2 Paterson News
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Firefighter Marinus Baker
Marinus Baker
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Engineer Marinus Baker of Engine Company 1 also died at the Linn Economy Drug Store 3rd Alarm Fire at 133-135 Main Street on April 27, 1928. His widow, Ethel T. Baker was granted his salary as an annual pension on December 28, 1928. |
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Thank you card from Mrs. Ethel Baker to Board of Fire and Police Commissioners |
Dayspring Collection
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July 6, 1938 Paterson News
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Firefighter David Johnstone
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Fireman David Johnstone of Engine Company 8 was struck by an automobile while uncoupling and dragging hose at the intersection of Market and Clark Streets during the 3rd Alarm Manhattan Hotel Fire (located at 237-251 Market Street on March 31, 1931. He died on April 2, 1931. |
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April 1, 1931 Evening News
Driver of car charged with reckless driving and atrocious assault
Driver of car charged with reckless driving and atrocious assault
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 2, 1931 - Morning Call
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 2, 1931 Evening News
Driver re-arrested and charged with manslaughter
Pall of sorrow over the department and Engine 8 quarters draped in mourning
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 3, 1931 Evening News
April 2, 2021
Johnstone's company was Engine 8
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St. Bonaventure's Fire with 2 Deaths
May 7th, 1934 - 3 Alarm Fire
John P. O'Neill of Engine 9 and Allen Saal of Truck 3
John P. O'Neill of Engine 9 and Allen Saal of Truck 3
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Paterson Evening News
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
At right is photo of the scene and ladder from which Firefighters O'Neil and Saal died
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Two firemen are dying, eight others are suffering in hospitals and a score more are back on duty today carrying burns and bruises from one of the one of the most disastrous fires the city has experienced in years
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3-Alarm Fire
It was a three-alarm fire in the St. Bonaventure's Lyceum and parish hall that brought disaster and possible immediate tragedy in its wake. Collapsing walls of the two and a half story brick structure caused all of the injuries. When they fell they swept firemen from their ladders burying them and their companies on the ground under debris.
The conflagration which late last night demolished the old school building in the Stoney Road section was the second of its kind in four days (on Thursday morning a three-alarm fire called all apparatus to St. Joseph's Church where 24 firemen were overcome by smoke in a basement blaze. 3 Seriously Injured
Three ambulances, taxicabs and private automobiles carried the injured firemen to hospitals. The seriously injured include:
John P. O'Neill, Engine Company 9, dying at St. Joseph's Hospital from internal injuries and fractured skull Allen Saal, Truck Company 3 dying in the General Hospital from internal injuries. John Murphy, Chief's driver in critical condition in St. Joseph's hospital from possible internal injuries. Also in St. Joseph's hospital is Patrolman John Colligan who suffered a recurrence of a head injury while siding at the fire. Internal injuries and broken bones were suffered by the victims of the falling walls. |
Fireman Saal has been unconscious since being admitted to the hospital and Fireman O'Neill although able to talk has been given up by his physicians. It was reported that Murphy, the chief's driver had a fractured rib penetrating his lung. Condition of the others is such that some will be released from hospitals before the week is over.
May 9 Paterson News
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Firefighter John P. O'Neill
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Fireman John O'Neill of Engine Company 9 was fatally injured in a wall collapse at the 3rd Alarm fire at St. Bonaventure's Lyceum at Carlisle Ave and Ramsey Street on May 7, 1934. He died on May 8th 1934. |
May 9 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
For further news clips on this fire CLICK HERE and scroll to May 1934
May 11 Paterson Evening Newx
Letter from Police and Fire Commission Board to Mrs. O'Neill
May 8, 2021 - Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Firefighter Allen Saal
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Fireman Allen Saal, age 31, of Truck Company 3 was fatally injured in a wall collapse at the 3rd Alarm fire at St. Bonaventure's Lyceum at Carlisle Ave and Ramsey Street on May 7, 1934. He died 2 days later on May 9, 1934. |
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May 10 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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May 12 Paterson Evening News
May 8, 2021 - Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
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Saturday March 12, 1938
A Day That Lives in PFD Infamy
The Quackenbush Warehouse Fire
5 Firefighters Lost
Deputy Chief James Sweeney
Captain John Davenport |
FF William Lynch |
FF Matthew O'Neill |
FF Louis Rodesky |
The following men were all killed in a wall collapse at the Quackenbush Warehouse 4th Alarm Fire at 55-57 Prospect Street
Deputy Chief James Sweeney running out of Headquarters at 115 Van Houten Street Captain John Davenport of Engine Company 5 Firefighter William J. Lynch of Engine Company 5 Firefighter Matthew R. O'Neill of Engine Company 5 Firefighter Louis Rodesky of Engine Company 5 |
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The Quackenbush fire was the third incident in a decade to claim the life of more than one Paterson firefighter.
1941 Ballbook: Top Captain Devenport and Mathew O'Neill. CenterDeputy Chief Sweeney. Bottom William Lynch and Louis Rodesky
Note helmet of one of the E5 fireman who made the Supreme Sacrifice at mid-left
As the funeral cortege passed Central Fire Headquarters at 115 Van Houten Street (quarters of Engine 5) Station 474 (Main and Van Houten Streets: box of the tragic fire) was sounded
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 31, 1953: Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
March 12, 2021: PFD performs a Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance of the 5 LODD firefighters (the year is a typo - should be 1938)
Deputy Chief James Sweeney
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Deputy Chief Sweeney
1937 Ballbook
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March 16 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
Captain John Devenport
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Captain John Devenport
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Procession carrying Captain Devenport passing Headquarters at 115 Van Houten Street - March 16 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
March 16 Paterson News
October 2018: Following medals were found within a tin box buried in wall of the Hillcrest Firehouse - that was exposed after an automobile crashed into the firehouse, thereby exposing the box. They had to be implanted as house was built in1970-71.
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Firefighter Matthew O'Neill
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Matthew O'Neill
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March 16 Paterson News
Firefighter William Lynch
William Lynch
William J was the son of Engine 10 firefighter William P Lynch
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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March 16 Paterson News
Firefighter Louis Rodesky
Louis Rodesky
circa 1917
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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A Bravery in Action Medal was presented to the families of all of those killed in action at the Quackenbush Fire by the Paterson Evening News. The one below was for Louis Rodesky (courtesy of his relative Harry Miller).
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"Bravery in Action" March 12, 1938
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March 16 Paterson News
The Paterson Fire department also had 10K gold engraved medals made
Dayspring Collection
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Dayspring Collection
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Appreciation Cards from widows sent to Board of Fire and Police Commissioners. (from the Dayspring Collection)
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Dayspring Collection
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Dayspring Collection
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April 4, 1938: Pensions awarded to widows of Sweeney, Devenport and Lynch. Rodedsky and O'Neill were not married.
Paterson News
April 21, 1938: News Hero Medals awarded to families of LODD firefighters
April 22 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
Sons of firefighter James P O'Neill
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Police Chief and Fire Chief Coyle
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September 13, 1938
Patesron News
Unveiling of the Firemen's Memorial Monument at Post Office Plaza on March 12, 1941
Unveiling of the Monument Program
Natoli Collection
Natoli Collection
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May 30, 1962: Firemen visit the grave of Louis Rodesky and other departed firefighters
Firefighter Edward J. Moore
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July 11, 1938: Firefighter Moore, age 57, of Engine Company 7, appointed April 1, 1908, collapsed and died while extending hose and attaching to a hydrant at a multiple alarm fire (Station 556, at Lewis Street and Beckwith Avenue, pulled twice, plus a second alarm) at the Wright aeronautical Plant on Beckwith Avenue. The hydrant was located at Lewis Street and Beckwith Avenue.
His name, albeit belatedly, was added to the Memorial Monument on June 3, 2018 |
1908 Engine 9
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1936 Engine 7
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Morning Call July 12, 1938 - Curtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy of Dennis Morrison
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Morning Call July 12, 1938 - Curtesy Dennis Morrison
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Paterson Evening News - July 12, 1938 - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Paterson Evening News - July 12, 1938 - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Report of Incident by the Acting Captain Of Engine Company 7
Dayspring Collection
Dayspring Collection
October 6, 1942
Paterson News
Firefighter Moore's name added to monument June 3, 2018
July 11, 2021
Firefighter Charles A. McBennett
May 3, 1941: Station 472 Main and Market Streets - 278-280 Main Street 3:40 PM - F/F Charles A. McBennett of Engine Company 1, a 20 year PFD veteran (appointed September 16, 1921) suffers a heart attack while fighting a Main Street fire. He was hospitalized and died ~ 4 weeks later on May 28, 1941.
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May 5 Paterson News
May 6 Paterson News
F/F Charles McBennett 1936 Ball Book
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June 2 Paterson News
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F/F McBennett's name was added to the Memorial Monument June 4, 2021
Firefighter Leo A. Walsh
Firefighter Leo A. Walsh of Truck Company 3 fought a second alarm fire (during which there was heavy ladder use) at Bornstein Ribbon Mill on East 33rd Street on June 28, 1941. He became ill following the return to Godwin Avenue firehouse quarters and later found in the firehouse cellar with obvious signs of a severe stroke. He was hospitalized, never discharged and died on December 24, 1941.
June 30. 1941 Paterson News
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F/F Leo Walsh
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December 26 Morning Call
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PFD provided full departmental honors at his funeral and then marched down Market Street to his resting place at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery. A settlement in August of 1943 attributed his death to fighting the fire.
December 24, 1941 Morning Call
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August 24, 1943 Paterson Newsd
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F/F Walsh's name was added to the Memorial Monument June 4, 2021
Auxiliary Firefighter William Conklin
Auxiliary Fireman William Conklin of Engine Company 4 was thrown from the apparatus during an auto accident at Grand and Mill Streets on April 19, 1942 and died from a skull fracture the same day. He received a full departmental funeral. Fatally injured in the same accident was fireman August Schneider (see below).
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
May 27, 1946 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
April 19, 2021 Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Firefighter August D. Schneider
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Firefighter August Schneider of Engine Company 4 was thrown from the apparatus during an accident at Grand and Mill Streets while responding to a brush fire on Van Houten Street on April 19, 1942. He died from a skull fracture on August 21, 1942.
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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August 23, 1942 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
March 1943
March 3. 1943 - Paterson News
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March 5, 1943 - Paterson News
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April 21, 2021 Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Firefighter Walter W. Pitkethly
Firefighter Walter W. "Kip" Pitkethly, appointed March 1, 1923, served 27 years at Engine Company 10. He became a Chief's Aide on January 1, 1950 and on February 20, 1950 he drove Battalion Chief Walter Titus of "A" shift) when Station 523 (Main and Grand Streets) sounded at 8:23 PM. There was a kitchen fire at 428 Main Street. Pitkethly was performing duties in and out of the building when he suddenly collapsed and could not be resuscitated by ambulance crew and a physician. called to the scene.
For a variety of complexities his name was not added to the monument until > 45 years after his death (~1995). On the monument his name is listed as William W. Pitkethly, but in PFD Ball Book rosters and in a court document on the incident he is always listed as Walter Pitkethly. As his middle initial is listed as "W" tt is possible he went by his middle name, presumably "Walter."
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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February 21 Morning Call - Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1949 Photo is outside of Engine 10 on 17th Avenue
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1950 Ball Book
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February 20, 1950: Journal entry of Engine Company 11 (out of Grand Street firehouse) related to the fire and to the official announcement (at 9:35 PM) of Chief's Aide Pitkethly's death (note misspelling of name in journal). Note that Engine 11 was one of the companies responded to Station 523 for the 8:23 PM fire at which Pitkethly died.
February 21, 1951 entry (3:50 PM) into Journal of Engine Company 11 re order of Battalion Chief Chaplain for members of the "B" shift to assemble at Engine Company 10 quarters on February 22 at 7:30 PM and then proceed to pay last respects at the Feeney Funeral Home. Note Pithethly's name again misspelled)
June 22, 1953: Supreme Court denies pension to Mrs. Pikethly
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Paterson News
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February 20, 2021 Radio Broadcast
Firefighter (Chief's Aide) Joseph Dow
Chief's Aide Joseph A. Dow on July 26, 1951, was killed in a collision at Broadway (opposite 485) and Madison Avenue while driving Acting Chief Kennedy to a 3rd alarm fire at 551-61 1st Avenue. [Station 636 (East 23rd Street and Second Avenue)]. He was hospitalized and died at 1:30 AM on July 29, 1951. His funeral was at the quarters of Engine Company 10 (17th Avenue) on August 1, 1951. For complete details on the fire and accident CLICK HERE and scroll down to July 26.
Courtesy Dennis Morrison
Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Jim Eifler Collection
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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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July 30 Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 26, 1951: Journal of Engine Company 1 - was not at the 3 alarm fire and was dispatched by a still alarm to respond to accident site and perform wash-down of gas leaking from the "Cadillac Gig.". Ferdinand Pelleschi was the acting Captain on the "B" shift
Dayspring Collection
July 29, 1951: Journal of Engine Company one notes that at 2:03 AM the fire alarm office (FAO) notified the department of the passing of Chief's Aide Joseph Dow
Dayspring Collection
July 29, 1951; Journal of Engine 1 at 6:00 PM notes order of Deputy Chief Strathearn regarding paying respects to the late fireman Joseph Dow. All to meet at quarters of Engine 10 on 17th Avenue on July 30 and then proceed to funeral. At 2:48 PM on July 30 an additional order (not shown) was issued by Acting Chief Kennedy to wear black socks to the funeral.
Dayspring Collection
August 2, 1951: Funeral - other Chief's Aides served as pall bearers
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Morning Call courtesy Dennis Morrison
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April 11, 1952 Paterson News
July 26, 2021
Captain Lester Reiche
Captain Lester Reiche of Engine Company 3 collapsed from a heart attack and died at a 306 Ellison Street fire on March 4, 1961. Shown here with Engine Co 3 Ahrens Fox apparatus
With "Skipper" on Engine Co. 3 Ahrens Fox
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March 4, 2021 PFD LDD Radio Broadcast
Captain Frank Mancinelli
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Captain Frank Mancinelli of Truck Company 3 was killed as a result of injuries sustained in a fall from the roof at a 3rd Alarm fire (Station 235) on 67-69 Paterson Street on March 1, 1973. He died at St. Joseph's Hospital on March 4, 1973.
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March 2 Paterson Evening News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Hancock Collection
Memorial Plaque at Riverside Fire Station
Located outside of Riverside Firehouse
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March 8, 1973 Funeral Procession
March 8, 1973 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Note typo: Assistant Fire Chief was Joseph, not William Dayspring
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March 8, 1973 -- Hancock Collection
March 20, 1973 Paterson News curtesy Dennis Morrison
May 28 1973 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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1975: A memorial plaque for Captain Mancinelli was also put on the new 1975 Pirsch aerial that went to Truck Company 2: it was on the cab to the rear of the Captains door.
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T Dayspring Photo
Settlement with family
June 23 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
March 1, 2021 PFD Radio Broadcast
Captain Fred Armona
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Captain Fred Armona of Engine Company 11 was killed at a roof collapse at the Christian 4th Reformed Church General Alarm Fire at 4th Avenue and East 19th Street on April 5th 1975.
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Captain
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The fire alarm attendant working that day (Jack Baker) reported: "We had a second alarm fire on River St & 4th Ave, Engine 11 (located at Grand Street Firehouse) relocated to the Riverside firehouse as Engine 3X. They were dispatched to a still alarm on East 16th st near 4th Avenue for a rubbish fire, caused by embers from the River Street fire. At that
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April 1975 NJ State FMBA News
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location a civilian reported to Captain Armona that the church on the corner of East 19th and 4th Avenue was on fire. Engine 11 (3x) picked up from the East 16th Street rubbish fire and notified fire alarm that they were responding on a verbal alarm to a reported church fire. Upon their arrival Captain Armona reported a 10-5 (working Fire ) at the church and Station 638 was sounded. The fire went to a 4th alarm and Captain Amona made the ultimate sacrifice: six firemen were in the building as the roof and walls of this 1911 church collapsed." All but Captain Armona escaped.
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Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
April 7 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
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Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
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Funeral cortege passing Hillcrest Firehouse on Union Avenue
Firefighters assembled for funeral cortege at Engine Company 11, 97 Grand Street: L-R: Captain John Walton, Vincent Zito, Captain Robert Woodruff, James Ramundo, Nicholas Ricciardi, James O'Neill, Captain Terry Pelligrino, and Gary Knorr
Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
Click on photos below to enlarge (by Captain Frank Malzone)
Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
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Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
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Courtesy of R Salmanowitz / Natoli Collection
April 3, 1976: Memorial plaque placed at 97 Grand Street Firehouse of Engine Company 11- Later moved to fire Headquarters on McBride Avenue
April 5, 1976 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
T Dayspring Photo
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T Dayspring Photo
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Plaque relocated in 2016 to McBride Avenue Headquarters Firehouse
Firefighter Thomas Calamita
Fireman Thomas Calamita of Engine Company 2 died at an 84 Lyons Street fire (Station 288 sounded at ~5:24 AM) on May 8th 1978. It was a vacant two and 1/2 story frame dwelling.
May 9 Record courtesy Dennis Morrison
Haycock Collection
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May 8, 2021 - Signal 5-5-5-5 Radio Remembrance
Firefighter John Anthony Nicosia
Fireman John A. Nicosia of Engine Co. 4 was killed on January 17th 1991 during firefighting operations at the Meyer Brothers Department store multiple alarm fire, that also involved other structures in downtown Paterson. He was 27 years old, had entered the clothing store with several others, but failed to return when they were driven out by the heat and smoke.
January 17, 1991 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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This plaque hangs on a building front on Main Street where Meyer Brothers once stood
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Plaque restored 2018 after graffiti
Engine 4 is the apparatus on which John Nicosia responded. This photo hangs at PFD Headquarters
January 24 Wake of John Nicosia
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 25, 1991
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Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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Engine 4 - Malzone photo
January 27, 1991: Memorial Ceremony - FF decorations
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February 2 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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February 14, 1991: City Council honors F/F Nicosia
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
April 29, 1991: Botto (American Labor) Museum in Haledon honors Nicosia
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 7, 1992: Memorial service held at St. Gerard's Church - the following memorial tree and plaque are at Northside Firehouse on Temple Street
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Northside Firehouse - October 2018
January 18, 2001: 10 year reminiscence
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
2001 Ball Book
Firefighter Nicosia's name is inscribed on the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Plaque in Emmitsburg, MD
Displayed in Chief's Floor at McBride Avenue fh
July 21, 2018: Memorial defaced
Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
January 17, 2020: FF reminisce at Main Street plaque
Captain Craig Bland, Keith Eickhorst, Tim Kline, Kenneth Hicks, Matthew Post, Alvin Ramos, Michael A Scherer, Frank Morrell, Michael Piccoli, Nilson Fernandez, Captain Arthur J Woods, Luis Salerna
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October 4, 2020 - D/C Michael Caposella and PFA President FF Frank Petrelli present Nicosia replacement plaque at Annual Memorial Service
D/C Michael Caposella and PFA President FF Frank Petrelli
Annual PFD LODD Radio Remembrance - first delivered posted in 2021
2023 Posting by National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Firefighter Walter Bitner
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Fireman Walter "Wally" Bitner of Engine Company 5, on July 11, 1989 after falling from the apparatus as it was leaving Lafayette Street quarters (Riverside Firehouse) and turning left onto East 16th Street while responding to an alarm at 12:21 PM to Station 124 for a fire at 310 Hamilton Avenue. He suffered a brain injury and died 9 years later on October 24, 1998.
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Walter Bitner
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July 12, 1989 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
Walter Bitner (on right) was appointed April 1, 1985 - shown in photo with fellow appointee Marty Krupinski
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July 12, 1989 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
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July 13, 1989 Herald courtesy Dennis Morrison
October 26 Paterson News courtesy Dennis Morrison
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November 10, 1998: Resolution from the City of Paterson
Firefighter Bitner's name is inscribed on the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Plaque in Emmitsburg, MD
FF Bitner listed under NJ
July 11, 2021
October 24, 2023 - From the Fallen Firefighter's Foundation
Firefighter Scott Rogow
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Scott Rogow of Rescue 2, badge # 420, sustained injuries while operating at a 1 alarm structure fire on July 6, 2009: Incident #093049 at 73 Carlisle Avenue.
His death on August 28, 2012 was attributed to injuries sustained at the fire. His name was added to the Memorial Monument on June 4, 2017. Additional photographs |
Scott Rogow
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Chief Postorino accepts the 28th Supreme Sacritice flag from Captain Scott Parkin of rescue 2 -- Chris Tompkins Photo
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Chris Tompkins Photo
Salute from Master of Ceremonies Robert Allen -- Marchese photo
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Chris Tompkins Photo
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First Responder News August 2017
October 6-8, 2017: Fallen Firefighter's Foundation ceremony Emmitsburg, MD. The badge presented to family
(L-R) FF L. Vega, FF R. Allen, Captain P. Garced, Retired BC C. Babcock, Lynne Rogow, Captain H. Anderson, Chief M. Postorino, DC K. Hancock, FF J. Krehel, FF G. Behnke
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Scott Rogow listed under 2012
Injury that led to death occurred July 6, 2009
2017 Memorial T-Shirt
T Dayspring photo
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T Dayspring photo
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June 2, 2019: At the Annual Memorial Service at McBride Avenue Headquarters PFD honored the recipients below for their efforts in documenting Paterson's FF LODDs resulting in their listing at the National Fallen Firefighters
From the Memorial Program
Chief Brian McDermott, Honorary BC Thomas Dayspring, Ret DC Kevin Hancock, Jim Eifler receiving awards - Dennis Morrison missing
Ret DC Kevin Hancock & Honorary BC Thomas Dayspring
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September 2020: Memorial T-shirt
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2021 - LODD Memorial Wall established at Riverside Firehouse
Courtesy Kevin Behnke
January 2022: dedicated to those FF with historical links to HDQTS or E7. Deputy Chief Sweeney and Chief's Aide Dow were operating out of Central HDQTS (then on Van Houten St) on their fateful day. The others were in companies that are linked or evolved into current Engine 7: Chemical 1 (Hamilton Street) became Engine 11 (which moved to Grand Street) and subsequently renamed as Engine 7 (previously located at Gould Ave & Southside). E7 moved to McBride Ave. Harry Kelley and Ed Moore (both of E7), William Cook (of Chemical 1), and Fred Armona (of E11) are in essence alumni of current E7 at McBride.
Courtesy FF Francisco Peralta Jr