Skip to content

Archives for

See all posts in the network tagged with

RE-ADJUSTING

10 comments

I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed nor am I a complete idiot. That said, I know that I am not nor have I ever been what most folks would call “normal”. I also know that “normal” is something I will never be.

Rhett, Zach Green and I have just returned from a trip up to New York City. Much like most of the journeys Rhett and I embark on ( ie; 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, NFFF Memorial Weekends, etc), this trip was life altering. I find myself back home and even on duty today but so far from the person who left Roanoke a mere 5 days ago.

Read my brief follow up post to our trip HERE 

For those of you who follow this site regularly, you know that of all the things my postings can be described as, “brief” is usually not on that list. I used the word “brief” in the above link because there is so much detail that I left out. I did this intentionally.

First, there are some parts / details about our trip that we just can’t talk about yet. You’ll understand why when we are allowed to release details. Secondly, I just didn’t have the time for a 10 page post describing everything we experienced. Third, I felt that the parts of this trip that affected me most deserved its own post. Now, I know that it will most likely take 2 or 3 installments.

I spoke in my follow up post about visiting some FDNY Houses … in particular, Rescue 1, Rescue 4 and Ten House. These visits alone were very emotional for me.

Early in my career, I was (and remain today) a huge FDNY “buff”. They are the “benchmark” for America’s Fire Service … the elite of the elite if you will. Good friend and Brother Captain Todd Stone and I made a trip up, spent the night and got to ride with Rescue 4 in the early 1990′s. I WAS HOOKED ! We returned each  year following (together or alone) to do the same. In the years following, I had the honor of staying with Rescue 1 and later with 39 / 16  (Todd would spend many nights with Rescue 2).

I met the men of these houses. We talked and ate together. I was one of thousands that they meet yearly but they were the only NYC firefighters I knew. It was on one these rides where I met Joey Angelini of Rescue 1.

Read an earlier post on meeting “Joey” HERE

These men made an impression on me. One that I carry still today. I’ve returned only once since the September 11 attacks when I stayed with 39/16 and marched along side them in the 2002 St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Last week was the first time I’ve been back to Rescue 1 or 4 since before the attacks. Again I’ll say … it was very emotional.

Every FDNY House has plaques and memorials. The run boards from that fateful day have never been erased. We all have heard the names and seen the faces. In these houses, for me; it was more than a name or picture on a wall …. I knew these men.

Stepping into these houses, I concentrated hard to mask my emotion. I didn’t want my being upset / emotional to affect the men on duty. I think I did ok but “something” must have shown.  Upon entering the House, I would ask to see the Officer. I never mentioned having been there “before”. As far as they knew, this was my first visit. That’s whats so amazing about our Brotherhood… I didn’t have to. After a brief introduction and eye contact, it was almost as if they knew. We were immediately accepted as one of their own and the House opened up to us.

This would be my first time meeting Rescue 1′s Lt. Tarabocchia …. what a great guy! We “clicked” from the get go. He wanted me to wear his Lt’s shirt because the Chief was due for a visit… it was a mustache thing. Before we could make the switch, the Chief arrived but it still made for a good laugh.

It was an AWESOME visit. Lt. Tarabocchia even gave me somewhat of a private tour of the house. He never pointed them out but I believe purposely took me past several “personal” memorials for the House. He even shared some personal stories and photographs.

Joey’s name or picture was everywhere and after all my climbs etc in honor and memory of him, it was almost peaceful to be seeing it in that House. I just can’t explain it. I guess if I was to sum it up in a single word, it word be the one found atop their rig and throughout the House … ” OUTSTANDING ” !

Even the “small” things on this trip triggered emotion…. a ride on the subway.

Our first night in the City, we left Times Square and headed down to Ground Zero. We took the subway. Little did we know we would emerge right between St. Paul’s Chapel  and Ground Zero. It took my breath…. each of us knowing exactly where we were … unable to speak. I wish I could describe the sight. A clear city sky … a slight nip in the air … everything going on and moving around us yet it felt as if time had stopped. Rhett and I made eye contact and without saying knew… “THIS” has been our destination for the past 10 years.

I’ll fast forward to the following day. Rhett headed down to New Jersey to teach his Social Media in the Fire Service class. I would stay behind with Zach and work on a different project.

My various  work with Rhett,  Zach and Fox Fire  has allowed me to travel to some fantastic places and meet some great people. One of those folks is Chief Billy Goldfeder. Chief Goldfeder is a true Fire Service Leader and I am honored and privileged to know him. We had reached out to Chief Billy for this trip and he came through in an unbelievable way. What he did for us was the most emotional part of this journey and I’m not sure if I will ever be able to repay the debt.

Chief Billy arranged a tour for us at the WTC Tribute Center . Chief didn’t arrange just any tour mind you … he set it up with the Center’s founder, Lee Ielpi.

At the times of the attacks, Lee was a retired member from Rescue 2 in Brooklyn. His son was on the job with Squad 288 of Queens. Jonathan ( Lee’s son) made his last phone call to his father that day. Squad 288 lost more members than any other company that day .. 19 .. Jonathan Ielpi was one of those members.

Lee grabbed his gear and headed to Ground Zero … HE HASN’T LEFT YET ! His story should touch each of you. Before I get to it, PLEASE take a moment and watch the videos below …


Meeting Lee was much like meeting the members that we had back in the Houses … as soon as we made eye contact, “something” was understood and a bond made. Lee would keep hold of my arm or his hand on my shoulder throughout our tour. It was a comforting feeling …

Lee had a meeting to attend and at first told us he regretted the tour would be brief. Within moments, we both knew that he would be late for that meeting.

The tour he gave us was nothing short of AMAZING. Words can not describe it. It was beyond personal. He was there. Lee gave detail of each exhibit that very few know. Lee and I cried together several times that day ….

He told us the story of the 8 dads. Eight fathers searching through the rubble for their sons. Exactly 3 months to the day from the attacks, Jonathan was found. Lee was the only father of the eight to get his son back and the amazing thing was that his body was in tact. Later, they would find parts of his gear (also mostly in tact). Jonathan’s turnout coat and helmet are one of the exhibits at the Tribute Center.

Lee told us the story then turned away as we approached Jonathan’s gear … I followed, both crying once again. I thought of Lee and Jonathan as well as of me and my dad. It’s a powerful story and exhibit. It also speaks of the kind of man Lee is to have that exhibit in the Tribute Center.

I didn’t take any pictures inside the Tribute Center. It is allowed and welcomed but for me, it didn’t feel right. Beyond that, I didn’t want to interrupt Lee’s conversation / stories nor did I want to be released from his touch. I hesitate even to add the picture to the right … it’s Lee by the actual exhibit. I add it only in hopes that it will “speak” to you as the entire experience did for me.

Beyond the exhibits, Lee told a bigger story … a story he wants everyone to know. He needs our help!

The center is staffed mostly with volunteers. Not just any volunteer either. Most of the folks giving tours etc are survivors of the attack in one way or another. People who escaped the collapse, who lost loved ones, who were outside watching as the towers fell, etc. The story is being told through so many perspectives yet through the same focus … from the ones who were there.

The thing is, the only way to hear this story is to go to the tribute Center. Do you know that the details and events of that day (as well as those preceding and following) are not in our children’s history books?  Ten years later and it’s not mentioned in school !!!

Who will teach our children? What will they teach them? I think about the Buckaroo … what will he learn of that day?? As it stands now… NOTHING. Nothing other than what I will teach him. It needs to be in our children’s history books! The entire story … the TRUTH.

The Tribute Center has several classroom resource kits that teach the important lessons of 9/11. “Eight videos reveal personal stories from people who were directly impacted by September 11, 2001 and who in response developed projects to make this world a more peaceful, tolerant place. Each story is accompanied by discussion questions, historical context, research links and projects.”

I will post more on Lee, The Tribute Center and their mission in the future. A LOT more. If interested, you can find the resource kits HERE .

Thanks for reading …

Captain Wines

Posted by on October 30, 2011 • Filed under: administration-leadership, fire-prevention-education, fire-rescue-topics, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, major-incidents, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

FIRE CRITIC AND IRONFIREMEN.COM ON THE ROAD AGAIN NYC 2011

4 comments

It’s been a while since I’ve checked in but it’s not because I’ve been slacking.

I’m actually posting this installment from NJ. Rhett and I have been between NJ and New York City for the past several days. We’ve been up here with our good friend from Fox Fire  Zach Green.

Find Zach, MN8 Products and Fox Fire on Face Book HERE

It’s been a ton of work and a hectic schedule but we are also having a blast. This is basically a work trip for us. I will be assisting Rhett while he teaches his “Social Media” class in New Jersey. He is teaching through Kean University  for the 2nd time …. a great class if you ever get the chance to catch it.

We are also doing a little leg work for Zach and Fox Fire. This has allowed us to visit a few of the elite companies of the FDNY.

We started out at Rescue Company #4 in Queens ( Wednesday).

Rescue 4 is a GREAT house!

Back in “the day”, I (and good friend / brother Captain Todd Stone) would go up and ride at R4. That was an awesome experience. I haven’t been to or rode a rig in New York since 2002. It felt great to be back in a FDNY house.

The Brothers of R4 were very welcoming. They opened the house and treated us very well. This was Rhett and Zach’s first visit to a Rescue Company in FDNY. They were very impressed.

 

After leaving our Brothers in Queens, we headed into Manhattan. Our first stop was Times Square and then down to Ground Zero and the Freedom Tower . It was unbelievable to see at night!

We ended up at FDNY’s Ten House ….Engine 10 / Truck 10 … this was another AWESOME visit. For those of you who don’t know, 10 House is located right at Ground Zero.

I’d say Truck 10 is one of the most recognizable post - 9/11  Ladders in the City ( in my opinion ). I’d say most of you have seen the American flag and 9/11 photo on the side. Their previous rig was destroyed during the attacks. They were able to recover one of the doors and now have it displayed in a memorial inside the house…. a VERY emotional display!

You also have to understand that due to their location, this House is FLOODED with visitors / guest. I’m sure the last thing these guys wanted to see was the 3 of us rolling in. We would have never known that by their reactions. Just like at Rescue 4, we were welcomed with open arms.

These Brothers opened their doors and made us feel right at home.  It’s an awesome feeling to know that you can walk into a firehouse anywhere in the Country and be taken care of …. BROTHERHOOD !

After our visit at Ten House, we had to choose between eating or catching a Broadway show. Remember now that Rhett and I have been on the road since 5 am that morning and had only stopped long enough for a pack of nabs and a cold beer. I was about to STARVE.

That said, we decided to eat. Now remember, when we travel with Zach Green; WE EAT WELL !

This trip would be no exception….  we chose Ben Benson’s Steakhouse .

OMG!!! What a great steak!

Nothing says “a good time” like sharing 10lbs of beef and a bottle of good wine with friends.

I gotta say … it’s nice to sit down at a fancy restaurant every now and again. This place was way out of my league ( that’s why I was drinking wine .. they didn’t have Old Milwaukee ..LOL ) but I don’t think anyone noticed. Bottom line, it was a great cap off to our first day in NYC.

 

Oh wait…. that wasn’t the end of our night…

We also found time to hang out with that Occupy Wall Street thing ..?!?

Yea.. while out walking we stumbled upon a tent city full of …. ummmm …errrrrrr …. well, it was crowded.

Come to find out, we were smack in the middle of the occupy Wall Street thing…

Next thing we know, there is a mob marching down the street, riot police and helicopter hovering above our heads.

Rhett and Zach fit right in … before I knew it, they were holding hands with some long haired dude singing Kumbaya! LOL

So, after that; we headed to our hotel for a quick night cap before I tucked Rhett in for the night. We would have another long day Thursday.

Rhett was on the road at 5am heading down to Jersey for his first class. I would hang in the City with Zach while we finished up a little work and some more networking.  We started our day out back at Ten House before heading up to Rescue 1 .

It was very emotional for me to be back in that house.

I have posted here numerous times on doing the NFFF 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs. I have always climbed in honor and memory of Joseph Angelini (Sr). “Joey” was assigned to Rescue 1 and I am lucky (and honored) to have not only met and knew him … I RODE WITH HIM ON RESCUE 1 !!

See a previous posts  on Joey Angelini   HERE  and    HERE    .

Of course every firehouse in the FDNY has some type of memorial, but Rescue 1 had Joey everywhere. If you double click the picture left, you’ll notice him in the upper / left row of pictures. Anyway, it was difficult for me, but I kept my composure. We were once again welcomed with open arms!

I REALLY enjoyed this vist. We were met by Lt. Tarabocchia …

A GREAT GUY …. we hit it off right from the start! ( it’s a mustache thing ).

It was almost like we were part of the company and we never even spoke of my previous year’s rides with Rescue 1. They had a visit from a Chief, a tour with a couple of kids and even conducted a in house drill.  I had told the Lt. that if things got too busy or crowded, we could slip away somewhere and return later ….    He wouldn’t hear of it.

 So, we got to hang out through it all.” The Lou” even gave me a special tour of the house and shared some personal pictures / stories … I  was HONORED.

I didn’t think we would be able to top that visit … the day only got better. We had reached out to good friend, Brother and Fire Service Leader Chief Billy Goldfeder (that’s another mustache thing). Chief Billy set us up in a way that I don’t think I’ll ever be able to repay.

He sat us up for a tour of the WTC Tribute Center . Not just any tour mind you … this was set up by Chief Billy Goldfeder … we had a PRIVATE tour. Think that sounds cool ???  What would you think if I told you that the founder himself gave us the tour? Yea … Lee Ielpi himself gave us a personal tour!

I had heard the name but it never really registered until I met him. Lee was retired from Rescue 2 (Brooklyn) at the time of the attacks. His son however was on the job. Lee’s son was murdered that day along with 342 more of our brothers. Lee headed straight down to Ground Zero that day and hasn’t left yet. Here’s a short video..

MORE VIDEO LINKS   HERE   and  HERE .

Words can’t describe the emotions of this tour. For whatever reason, Lee and I seemed to “connect” from the beginning. We cried together that day and I will never forget the time we spent  together. I will post a TON more on Lee and the WTC Tribute Center in the very near future. He made a huge impression and has motivated me to become a part of his battle.

The Tribute Center is a MUST SEE for everyone.

It’s located within it’s own building and tells the story of 9/11 through several perspectives. They have some remarkable displays and do a fantastic job of telling the story.

The tour continues outside (across the street) to the site of the Reflecting Pools and Freedom Tower.

The site is still under construction (obviously) but is also a MUST SEE . We were there in the pouring rain yet found it difficult to leave knowing that we hadn’t see it all … another emotional visit.

Needless to say, the next few hours were spent quietly … reflecting.

 SPECIAL THANKS TO CHIEF BILLY GOLDFEDER FOR GIVING ME THIS EXPERIENCE!

We did have more work to do  so, we collected ourselves and  headed out to Brooklyn for a visit with Rescue 2.

Captain Liam Flaherty and his crew also opened their house to make us feel at home.

We shared some great conversation around their kitchen table while watching the Rangers game. I had been to R2 before but have never ridden. I had also meet Captain Flaherty before while at Firehouse Expo in Baltimore, Md. earlier this year ( see that post and pictures again by clicking  HERE )

We were all beat by this time and once again headed back to our hotel for a few hours sleep.

This morning, Rhett and I loaded up and headed back down to Jersey for a 2nd day of teaching Social Media. Zach will catch a flight back to Ohio around mid day. I have a lot more info to share with you about our trip but I’ll save that for posts later this week.

As soon as we finish up class, Rhett and I will be back on the road and headed home. Rhett works tomorrow and I’ll return to duty on Sunday. Special thanks as well to Roanoke Brothers Lt. Barry Ferguson, Lt Chuck Sharp and Captain Craig Sellers for covering my shifts Wednesday and Friday.

I’ll give ya more in the next day or so … until I get back, Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

 

 

Posted by on October 28, 2011 • Filed under: in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

“ROOKIE” RANDY EARNS ANOTHER 90 DAYS ON THE JOB

1 comment

It’s hard to believe but Rookie Firefighter Randy Armbrister has been with us “in company” for a little over 3 months now!

Like with everything, this news has both good and bad points … depending on how you look at it.

When our recruits complete the academy, they are assigned to a company, placed on 1 years probation and have a detailed set of objectives to complete / pass within that year. They are assigned a “Rookie Book” which contains those objectives and are evaluated at the 3, 6, 9 and 12 month mark.

Randy just reached his 3 month mark and let me tell ya …. it’s been a long, hard road!

See one of my 1st posts on Randy by clicking HERE

To successfully pass the 3 month field performance evaluation, the probationary firefighter must …

1.) Demonstrate the location, operation and maintenance of ALL firefighting equipment carried on the apparatus. They must also provide examples of the operation / use of the equipment.

2.) Do the same as above for ALL EMS equipment carried on a Medic truck (ambulance).

3.) Complete ALL BLS or ALS internship requirements needed to become an AIC (Attendant In Charge)

4.) Demonstrate the knowledge of 25% of their 1st due territory.

5.) Demonstrate proper station and apparatus maintenance and cleanliness with the team concept.

6.) Demonstrate knowledge of computer systems

7.) Complete on-line ICS 100 class.

8.) Demonstrate proper radio terminology and use.

9.) Demonstrate proper daily checks and cleaning procedures for SCBA

10.) Read and understand ALL Department directives, SOP / SOG’s and City P.O.P’s

11.) Understand fueling procedures (cards, gates, station forms etc).

It’s been “touch and go” for Randy … good and bad. At times, even his moma would have been proud. Other times … well …. lets just say Randy is a “work in progress” LOL

Click here for previous post ” I HAD TO PULL THE BOOK ! “

The good news is that he mat all of the requirments and will stay employed for at least another 3 months. All kidding aside, Randy has been doing really well and I’ve been very please with his overall performance. I was a little disappointed when he killed us in a training exercise but the good thing there is 1.) it was training and 2.) he learned from the experience. See that post HERE .

We took Randy out to our Regional Training Center last day (Monday) so he could demonstrate a lot of the “basics” that we’ve been pounding into his head.

As would be expected, there is a lot of room for improvement but overall, George and I were pleased.

After he caught the hydrant, we had him stretch a line.

Like happens so often with a 3 man Engine Company, Randy was left to make his stretch alone. We have talked almost every day on how sometimes, slowing down” will make an operation move faster.

In other words, slow down just a bit … take the time to make your stretch right the first time and you wont be inside (held up, wasting time) screaming for someone to “pull more line”.

He made a good stretch and seems to understand the importance  of each aspect of the stretch. He did however make one BIG mistake that will the Chauffer on your ass everytime. Did you spot it? He left his door open.

Adrenilin, tunnel vision, whatever you want to call it. Slow down, calm down. CLOSE YOUR DOOR and take a look around you. Make YOUR sizeup.

We moved on and had Randy throw a few ladders.

Single firefighter carries and throws … again, much like he may be faced with due to running on a 3 man company.

Judging distances / height and choosing the correct ladder is essential. Of course when you’re working off an Engine vs Ladder, the choices are limited. We have a 14′ roof ladder or a 28′ extension (plus an collaspable attic ladder).

We worked on a single firefighter moving an extended ladder from window to another. We employed the roll technique ( rolling the ladder beam to beam ) which in my mind is working smarter, not harder. An extended ladder can be difficult to handle alone.

Again, Randy did very well with this part of his testing / training. If he was about 100 lbs heavier and not as smart, he may make a good “Truckie”. LOL … just kidding Truckies .

After we got the ladders up, we worked on some VES ( Vent Enter Search ).

Again, this is a tactic often utilized by Engine companies just as often as Ladders (Truck) with today’s staffing issues.

For straight Engine Company Operations, you could also work on advancing the line to the 2nd floor up the ladder.

As you would expect, once again; Randy did very well.

I did talk to him about “sounding the floor” when entering the window. I guess in Recruit School, they teach you to sound the floor by “pounding” your tool on the floor. DON’T.

I like to teach to “sweep” under the window with your tool. A lot of times, the victim you are searching for will be found at that window. If you reach in with a 6′ hook or halagan bar and start pounding away, you very well may be bashing the crap out of the very person you were going in to save. So, SWEEP FIRST.

We finnished up with Randy completing his ICS 100 on-line.

I thought he was gonna pull his hair out by the time he got to the test at the end.

That’s why you noticed computer use in the requirments from his Rookie Book. A lot of the training that we have to complete is done on-line. Either from our Training Division or other sources, computer use is a major requirment in today’s fire service.

It kinda goes without saying that Randy is not around computers very much. Like all the other functions, it will get easier and he’ll become more profecient with time.

 

I told him not to worry about it too much.

If he failed ICS on the computer, I’d drop back to printed books and start him out slow and easy ….

LOL.. the only problem with this plan is keeping him from eating the crayons!

LOL … the good news is that I didn’t have to resort to those means. Randy passed his ICS on the first attempt.

Today has been just as busy for Randy as far as training / learning.

 

Earlier, we had a pretty big water problem inside a residential structure.

I called in a Ladder truck for salvage and overhaul operations. One of the tools our Ladders carry is a wet or water vac.

Randy does a great job at sweeping and mopping around the station so we thought we’d let him try his hand with the vac.

Without giving too much detail, this home was owned by an elderly gentleman. He has a lot going on in his life and did not need any extra troubles. As fate would have it, a water line inside the house burst.

He had about an inch of water in 3 rooms ( 2 of them with carpet ) and the water still flowing. Obviously, we shut the water off to stop the leak. This is the point were some companies would leave the owner to find a plumber and clean up contractor. We elected to spend a little extra time and do what we could to get the bulk of the water out.

That’s just good PR and customer service that shines your Company, Department and City in a good light. The gentleman was very appreciative and we made a positive impact.

Tonight, we had “driver training” out at the Training Center.

Lt. Simmons gave a very imformitive classroom lecture and followed up with some time in our driving simulator.

The training was supposed to also include actual “backing”  scenarios outsdie, in the dark in our Engine ( it was also pouring rain ). I elected however to skip this part. I did not want Randy’s first time behind the wheel of E13 to be at night, in the rain and backing up.

We have 2 simulators, an Engine / Ladder and an ambulance. We started Randy off slow and put him in the Ambulance.

That’s why I’m the Captain !

NOTE the cracked windshield.

I knew what was gonna happen ……

Randy killed more people in the simulator than U.S snipers in Iraq.

LOL … I’m just kidding … he did fine. He did hit a few cars, a truck or two, some curbs and one hippie looking dude on a bicycle but again, it was training and he learned from the experience.

 

Here’s a short video of Randy behind the wheel …. BUCKLE UP!

That’s gonna wrap it up for tonight . As always, thanks for reading / following. I’ll check back in tomorrow or Friday. Don’t forget to like, share and recommend this on Face Book or to re-tweet on Twitter.

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

 

 

Posted by on October 19, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

LOOKING BACK ON THE 30TH NFFF MEMORIAL WEEKEND

1 comment

Rhett and I have returned home safely, but far from “whole”. I can’t help but feel as if we left a “piece” of us on those sacred grounds in Emmitsburg, Md. That, plus we brought twice has much home with us.

I don’t know how you could do what we did and see what we’ve seen and not take something away from the experience.

I will carry the memories we’ve made there for the rest of my life. Emmitsburg, the NFFF, our fallen and their survivors will stay with me always. I WILL NOT FORGET .

I would guess that most members on the job don’t know how much or exactly what it is that the NFFF ( National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation ) does. These folks are AMAZING!

Their work is not just about the Memorial Weekend. This team is on the job 24/7, 365 days of the year. First, the foundation works diligently to prevent and reduce the number of  Line Of Duty Deaths.  When an LODD does occur, they provide invaluable assistance to the Department(s) involved. They provided unbelievable resources and support programs for the  survivors (the family). Of course they developed and maintain the Memorial and they help the survivors attend the weekend services (all expenses paid). The Foundation offers many support services for the survivors year round as well as during Memorial Weekend (family day sessions, Fire Service Survivor Network, quarterly newsletters and even a scholarship program ).

Learn more about the NFFF and their Mission by clicking HERE .

 “Our mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding their lives. ”

photo by Lt. Rhett Fleitz (FireCritic.com)

A lot of the focus is understandably on the survivors … the family. That’s why I say every member on the job should attend these services. (read my previous post “Where Will You Be?” )

Better yet, you should become involved!

I report for duty every day knowing that it could be my last. It’s a huge comfort for me to know that an organization such as the NFFF will be there for my family and in so many ways should I loose my life in the Line of Duty.

We don’t like to think about it, much less talk about it but we need to. I have a wife, 2 daughters, a grandson (The Buckaroo), brothers, sisters, mother and father and even a few friends. Who will be there for them? Not just in the days or months following a loss but for years after … throughout their lives?

photo by Lt. Rhett Fleitz (FireCritic.com)

We often talk about “taking care of our own” but the NFFF actually does!

One of the really cool things to see at the weekend was how many past survivors make the return trip. For them, they say; it’s easy. They know it’s where they need to be.

I had the honor of listening to several past survivors talk about returning to help the new survivors. ”They” are the only ones who can truly understand what these folks are going through. Most explain how the support and services received from the NFFF made it possible for them to move forward with their lives. They further explain that now, it’s their “turn” or chance to do the same… to help a new survivor move forward.

I don’t think you’ll ever find better real life examples of  TRUE  BROTHERHOOD at any place other than the National Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial.

It’s not just the returning families either. Every volunteer on site this weekend (Honor Guard, Pipes and drums, Escourts, Command Staff, etc) was there out of honor and respect for the fallen. They were there for the survivors … doing their part and taking care of our own.

Again, I’ll briefly mention how amazing it was to see the logisitics of making this event even happen. The man power alone (volunteers) was overwhelming. Members of the Honor Guard came literally from all across the Country. We’re talking about 100′s of members. The Pipes and Drums are the same way and seem to continue growing each year. There are members “Escourts” assigned to the families from the moment they arrive. Transportation issues, food, lodging etc. It’s awe inspiring to see it all unfold without a glitch. STRONG WORK and WELL DONE to everyone involved in this years (the 30th annual) event.

As you most likely know, Rhett and I were there with Firefighter Netcast once again. Our job was a HUGE HONOR and humbling as well. As part of Fire Hero Radio, we had the priviledge of recording stories from the survivors. The families had the opportunity to sit down with us and talk about their lost loved ones… an “oral history” if you will.

They could talk about whatever they wanted. They needed (and we gave) very little direction. Sitting down in front of the mic seemed to be the hardest part because after they began talking, the stories poured out. WE LAUGHED AND CRIED! It was an honor for me to meet these folks and hear their stories first hand.

I will always remember every interview but some “stick out” more than others (for whatever reason). The Wheatley family was one of those interviews for me this year.

The Wheatleys are survivors of Fallen Firefighter Christopher Wheatley of Chicago’s Truck 2. That’s them pictured above left.

Video and coverage of this 2010 LODD from Dave Statter at Statter911.com

The Wheatleys are a great family. They spoke of how lucky they were to have had Christopher in their lives but I’d bet ya that he would argue the same about having a family such as his. This was one of those interviews where we both cried and laughed. Chris’ father didn’t want to participate. Chris’ mother and sister gave him no option. After he sat down, the stories began to flow. You could see the hurt but, even more so; the PRIDE in his  eyes as he spoke of his son.

photo from Chicagoareafire.com

They spoke of his younger years which molded the type of man Christopher grew up to be. About when Chris told them that he wanted to change course in collage and enroll in the Paramedic Program. He would later graduate at the top of his class. Something his father was very proud of seeing as how he (unlike every other member of that class) had no prior experience or background in Fire or EMS.

They talked of his years as a Paramedic on the mean streets of Chicago and of his bridge over to the Truck. The story evolved into  firehouse pranks, cooking, the comrodre and Brotherhood.

The talks soon moved toward his death and of how they knew it was for a greater reason. For them, looking back; it was almost as if it was meant to be (heaven needed another angel). You see, Chris had an attention for detail. He was killed on August 9, 2010 …8,9,10. After his death, the Chicago Fire Department received a new fire boat and named it The Christopher Wheatley. This boat was comissioned to be built 2years prior to Chris’ death in Wheatly, Ontario Canada. It seemed as though everything was in place and just as Chris would have wanted it.

Learn more about Chicago Fire Boat  The Christopher Wheatley by clicking HERE

When the interview was over, the family hugged us. I think it helped for whatever reason even if only in a small way.  The look on Christopher’s dad’s face had changed. I think that after the fact, he was glad his daughter insisted on his participation. That brings to mind part of a conversation from another interview / oral history where the word “closure” was mentioned.

 It’s not “CLOSURE” the survivors are looking for … they want to NEVER FORGET.

They want to remember and they want us to remember. They don’t want the name, memory or honor of their loved ones forgotten. Again, that’s a big part of what the NFFF and the Memorial do. They help to honor and REMEMBER our fallen. It’s hoped that in the future, these interviews (oral history) will be incopirated into the memorial. One day, when you locate Christopher Wheatley’s name; you may be able to press a button and listen to this interview…an “oral history” of Christopher in his family’s own words …what they wanted us to know and “remember” about Christopher. More than just a name chissled in stone … what a great MEMORIAL that would be!

Special THANKS to the NFFF, Dave Statter, Rhett Fleitz and John Mitchel for their work on this very special project!

photo from the NFFF site

So that was our work day on Saturday… crying and laughing all day and WORTH EVERY MOMENT.

Afterwards, we would attend the candle light Service…. we cried some more.

Again, there is something even beyond spiritual at these events …. I hope that you all get the chance to experience it some day.

Dave Statter made sure that all of your favorite Blogs and Web Sites had the link for live streaming video coverage of the weekend.

I hope you were able to tune in and watch. I’d love to hear your comments … no matter what site you watched from. Drop us a note using the “comment” section here, via Face Book or just send me a quick E-mail (linked at the top of the page under “contact”)

After the Candle Light service, we headed out for dinner with a small group of friends.

That’s one of the good things about the “pack” we run in … hard work is often rewarded with good food and GREAT conversations amoung friends.

Where else could a “Misfit” like me have the chance to break bread and discuss fire service issues with the likes of Chief Billy Goldfedder, Chief Ty Dickerson, Chief Tiger Schmittendorf, Dave Statter, Rhett Fleitz, Pete Piringer, Greg Guise and more?

I am fortunite enough to get to sit with this group ( and others ) often and each time I find myself more humbled. All the top issues of todays fire service being discussed by our top leaders and me sitting there soaking it all in … AWESOME!

There were serveal topics, “happenings” and new “buzz words” that I have been sworn to secrecy over. I dare not mention them for fear of facing the drop of Statter’s mighty hammer … Bahahahahhahahahaha.

For those of you wondering … YES, I took another “stache shot” with me and Chief Billy G.

The thing is … he cheats!

The photo op always catches me off gaurd. Plus, just before the shot, Chif Billy always combs his stache and then pulls in his bottom lip!

LOL .. who am I kidding? Chief Billy’s stache has mine beat hands down and I can’t think of a better man to loose to.

 

CLICK to watch this video staring Chief Billy Goldfedder … ”How to Motivate a Rookie”

Rhett and I also have the opportunity to meet new friends while at these events. Some brand new, and others that we have only met through our sites, Face Book etc.

Pictured right is good friend and loyal Ironfiremen.com reader John Crist.

John and I met about a year ago on Face Book. His step son was planning to take the hiring test for my Department and was wondering about affordable, clean hotels. I told him  that his son was more than welcome to stay at my house. In the end, his son didn’t test but the offer I extended was more than enough to win John over as a friend and avid reader. It was good to get to meet John face to face.

This was another great “meet up”. The Brother to my right is Chief D. Wayne Garver. Chief Garver came up and introduced himself knowing I was from Roanoke. It turns out that the Chief also lived here in the Garden City section of town several years back… small world huh?

What’s he doing now? Ahhh he’s only the Fire Chief for Camp David. YEA …. THAT Camp David! WOW! Talk about a high profile position. What even cooler than that is the fact that the Chief presented me with a Challenge Coin. Yea … Presidential Seal, Camp David Challenge Coin! I wished we had be able to meet up afterwards over a few beers. He dropped some names of guys who are still around here in town. I bet I could have gotten some great fretting material  errrr stories.

Pictured with us is Chief Roseier from Howard County Md. Rhett and I have meet the Chief several times now and he always asks about one of the guys on the job here in “The Noke”. He and  Todd Releigh served together in Iraq (Camp Victory but in different capacities). Chief was 2nd in command of the base to which Todd was assigned as a firefighter. Being 2nd in command earned the Chief the title “Sheriff”.

Two GREAT guys whom it was an honor to meet! Thanks for the coin and conversation .. you guys stay safe and keep in touch. Here are a few more random pictures of friends and fans ….

Rhett and I had a good time and accomplished what we had set out to do … we worked on behalf of, honored and remembered our fallen Brothers and Sisters. It was a good trip. We are proud of our work and considered it an HONOR (Rhett even worked for the Foundation’s Social Media Team for a while while I was hired on at Team Statter).

We even managed to stay out of trouble …..ummmm …wellllll …errrrr …let me say it this way … we didn’t go to jail  LOL.

Statter had told us … “I don’t care what you two do … just don’t get caught doing it on campus”. The next thing I know, Executive Director Ron Siarnicki needed to talk to Rhett.

I was sweating bullets! It had something to do with security clearance. OMG ! What if Ron had found out that Rhett doesn’t really exist? See Statter videos HERE  and  HERE  for and explination.

Turns out “someone” (cough cough Rhett) had lost his ID badge.

A security breach of this magnitude obviously dictated the  Executive Director altering his schedule to return the badge. I mean what else could he possibly have to do on Memorial Weekend?

Needless to say, a nice “lecture” followed. I think Statter wet himself trying to hold back laughter.

In the end, everything worked out. The waether was beautiful and the services everything they should have been. It was standing room only but should have been packed. Start planning now to attend next year …. you wont be sorry. (usually the 1st or 2nd weekend in October)

Rhett has a good post up on the event along with links to hundreds of pictures.  View that post from Fire Critic HERE .

I’m back on duty today, working Monday, Wednesday and Friday. I’ll get another post up tonight or tomorrow … keep checking back. Also, don’t forget to “like” our Face Book Fan Page “Wooden Ladders and Iron Firemen Blog” . Also, “share”  “like” or “Recommend” this post and re-tweet us on Twitter. Thanks for reading … until I get back, Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

Posted by on October 17, 2011 • Filed under: administration-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

LIVE COVERAGE FROM 2011 NFFF MEMORIAL CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL

No comments

Posted by on October 15, 2011 • Filed under: in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Of Honor and Respect

1 comment

Rhett and I are here in Emmitsburg, Md for the 30th annual National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation Memorial Weekend.

We made the 4  hour drive up yesterday and checked in around 2pm. It is truly an honor to be here. I’ve said it many times but, honestly; words can not describe what you see and feel at this place. I hope you have the opportunity to attend some day. As you can see, the Buckaroo was excited and ready to make the trip with us but I think he needs a few more years under his belt before I bring him along. Plus, I don’t think he’s even seen his “Paw Paw” cry.

We will shed MANY tears this weekend and justifiably so. Rhett and I have teamed up with John Mitchel once again as Firefighter Netcast to capture some oral history of the fallen. All throughout the weekend, the families (survivors) of the fallen will have the chance to sit down in front of the mic with us and tell some stories about their lost loved ones. We don’t prompt or direct them in any way … they say and talk about whatever they want. To sit, listen  and watch the wives, fathers, mothers, sisters etc reflect and remember the lives of the fallen is humbling to say the least. We capture some AWESOME stories and what an HONOR it is to hear them first hand.

There are all sorts of activities going on this morning.

We are set up and ready to go but the Honor Guard will be practicing all day. It still amazes me how they bring in so many members from Honor Guards all over the Country, mix em all together and have then in step and on time in a matter or hours.

Actually, this entire event is ran that way. The staff and members of the NFFF impliment the Incident Command System and run the weekend as one huge incident. Again, to see this system in action is awe inspiring.

The logistics alone  involved in an event such as this unbelievable, and they do a FANTASTIC job! 

We will update you guys as often as possible and provide “LIVE” video coverage of tonight’s candle light service as well as of tomorrow’s Memorial. We are also placing random photos on our Face Book pages when time allows so please be sure to check those often as well.

See photos of the 2010 Memorial Weekend from Ironfiremen.com by clicking HERE

One thing I’ll share with you real quick (and will hit more on later) is the fact that I’ve located the brick placed in memory of Chief Bobbie Slayton.

Bobbie passed away on January 8, 2011. He was not only my Battalion Chief, he was a great friend and mentor. My dad (now retired) drove Bobbie for several years. I couldn’t help but weep when I found his “Brick”. I hope Pop gets to see it one day … I know he’d be proud.

Read more on Chief Slayton and his passing HERE and HERE .

Bobbie spent most of his career on “B-shift” but for whatever reason, was moved to C-shift in his final years. It was C-shift (my shift) who collected the funds to purchase the memorial brick… THANKS to all who donated!

We are surrounded by friends and family here.

There is a somber feeling but one of unity and Brotherhood as well… I feel at “HOME” on these sacred grounds.

Keep checking back often as we will update whenever possible. You still have time to make the trip, so load up and hit the road… Rhett and I have an extra room that you are welcome to. Hope to see you here … it’s worth the sacrifice and nowhere near as big as the one those we are honoring made.

Captain Wines

 

 

 

Posted by on October 15, 2011 • Filed under: ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, news • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , ,

Where will you be?

1 comment

The 30th Annual National Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial Weekend will be held this weekend, October 14th-16th…… Will   YOU   be there?

YOU SHOULD BE!

The Fire Critic ( Rhett Fleitz ) and I will be there.

In my mind, this event should top your travel priorities for the year. Before you make FDIC, Firehouse Expo, FRI or any other convention / show, you should assure that you will be attending the National Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Md.

This year, the Foundation will be remembering and honoring 72 of our fallen Brothers and Sisters from 2010 and 17 from previous years. Even if these members are not from your Department or State, their deaths directly affect you. If you don’t think so, you’re wrong but that’s a separate post in itself.

View the 2011 “Roll of Honor” by clicking HERE

Look at it this way. With 89 members being honored just this year, odds are that one is from your or a neighboring state. The odds are even better that you heard or read about the death. Maybe even talked about it around your stations kitchen table.

Did you attend the funeral? The viewing? Maybe you wanted to but for whatever reason couldn’t. Maybe there were multiple losses near you that you couldn’t make at the time. HERES YOUR CHANCE. This weekend, you can remember and honor not just these 89 members but all who have gone before them.

The FireCritic Agrees … read his post “Go to the Funeral … you owe it to them

I found myself in that exact same situation this year. When Ashville, Nc. Captain Jeffrey Bowen was killed in late July, I felt it was close enough to home that I should attend. Ashville’s Department is not that much different than mine. Unfortunately, Ashville is a 4 hr drive and the services were held early enough that I couldn’t get there in time ( I was on duty the night before ).

See my coverage and multiple links to  Captain Bowen’s 2011 Line Of Duty Death in THIS post

Next year, I will have the opportunity to pay my respects to Captain Bowen at the 31st Memorial Weekend, and  I WILL BE THERE TO DO SO !

I guess what I’m saying here is that THIS IS YOUR CHANCE. If you go, you’ll thank me. The experience is beyond spiritual. I can’t explain it … you have to find out for yourself. This will only be my 2nd year in attendance but I will not miss another.

See Rhett’s 2010 Memorial Weekend in Retrospect  HERE   or related post from me  HERE  and  HERE .

Rhett and I will actually be working with / for the Foundation once again this year. We have rejoined Firefighter Netcast to help document and record the stories of the survivors. I will shed many tears. It’s humbling and a huge honor to see and hear the wives, children, mothers, fathers etc reflect on the memories of their lost loved ones …. of our BROTHERS and SISTERS.

If you simply can’t attend, don’t worry. Rhett, Dave Statter and I (along with many others) will have full and live coverage on our sites. Good friend, Brother and Fire Service leader Chris Naum has complete details for the weekend over at Command Safety.com

Find all the details from Command Safety’s Chris Naum by clicking  HERE  .

Rhett and I will load up and head out early tomorrow morning. I will start this trip with a heart already heavy.

My good friend and Battalion Chief Teddy Adkins called me this morning to let me know his mother had passed away in the night. Teddy is from deep Southwest Va. in Wise County.

He was already headed home to be with his family and make arrangements when he called. I offered to drive or just ride with him but he was half way there. I told him to call as soon as he knew the arrangements or if he needed ANYTHING. As soon as he calls, I’ll have to figure out the details between Maryland and Wise (anybody own a small plane?).

Anyway, please keep Chief Adkins and his family in your thoughts and prayers … they’ll be in mine.

Hope to see ya in Emmitsburg … Rhett and/or I will update from the road, after we arrive and throughout the weekend. Thanks for reading / following the site. Please take the time to hit “share”,  “like” or “reccommend” on FaceBook or retweet us on Twitter.

Most importantly, Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

 

 

Posted by on October 13, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Now that’s one tough mudder!

6 comments

photo from the Tough Mudder Face Book page

Yes, I meant to say “MUDDER” and not mother.

Pictured right is Eddie Wright. He lost both his arms to a RPG hit while serving in Fallujah.

He returned home and now participates in “Tough Mudder” events to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project . He is NOT alone!

A “Tough Mudder” event is a 9-12 mile obstacle course designed by British Special Forces to
test all around strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie. These events are NOT for everyone … they are more than the average marathon or obsticle course.

An excerpt from their info page states  “Tough Mudder is also about experiencing a true sense of camaraderie that, sadly, is rarely seen outside of the military these days. To get over some of our obstacles you will need the help of others- they are simply too much for one man to tackle alone. Tough Mudders, unlike some other types of endurance runners, are team players; they help out other Tough Mudders. We want everyone to compete, but being a Tough Mudder is also about make sure no man is left behind, not worrying about your finish time.”  

Despite the focus on teamwork and course completion vs. individual times etc, it is reported that just 78% of all participants complete these events. IT’S NO CAKE WALK!

I used the word “teamwork” but it’s more or less “Brotherhood” that they are talking about (or a sense of it anyway). I guess that’s why you shouldn’t be shocked to learn that firefighters are regular participants in the event.

Click HERE to visit and learn more about  “Tough Mudder”  from their web site.

On October 22nd and 23rd, several of my Brothers ( and past members of the “Melrose Misfit” crew ) will participate in a Tough Mudder event at the Wintergreen Ski Resort in beautiful Wintergreen, Va.

Click HERE for the complete VA TOUGH MUDDER course map

 It’s 24 total obstacles including an Ice bath, electric shock therapy, firewalker, kiss of mud, and a huge slip’n'slide. All participants must pledge: “As a Tough Mudder I pledge that, I understand that Tough Mudder is not a race but a challenge, I put teamwork and camaraderie before my course time, I do not whine – kids whine, I help my fellow Mudders complete the course, I overcome all fears.”

Our team will consist of 12 members …Lt. Rob “Bugg” Reid, Travis Meador,  Bryan Allen, Chase Thurman, Lt. Dan “Goodo” Goodwin, Dave Killeen, James Williamson, Jayson Anuszkiewicz, Jeffery Oliver, Kyle Inman,Captain  Matt Dewhirst and Pete Matthiessen.

The team will participate in honor and memory of Captain Chris Brown.

The event’s date will mark the 2 year anniversary of Chris’ death and the men couldn’t think of a better way to honor his memory. Chris possessed many of the qualities needed to complete such an event.

Captain Brown was known for (among other things) promoting brotherhood, teamwork and for building strong companies. His final assignment was at Station #1-C  “The Big Show” .

Read more on the passing of Captain Chris Brown from Roanoke Fire.com

As I mentioned above, funds raised from these events will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project . OUR TEAM NEEDS SPONSORS !! 

You can donate to this great cause in an individual or team’s name by clicking HERE !

Search for the team “ROANOKE FIREFIGHTERS” to donate on our behalf. While you’re at it, purchase a spectator pass  and head up to cheer our boys on! You’d better hurry though … the event is almost SOLD OUT !

I had no idea how popular these event are … their Face Book Fan Page has over 1.1 MILLION  “likes” !!!

They have had hundreds of thousands of participants and spectators alike. Male, female, young or old, it doesnt matter …. PARTICIPATE!

Previous engaugements have me scheduled out of town for the next 3 weekends in a row but I’m gonna do all I can to alter my schedule and attend (of course if I’m there, I’d want to participate rather than watch). I’m not sure if I will be able to work it out or not.

If I don’t make it, I’m sure I will receive a full report and pics from our members and will get them to you here as soon as I do.

Either way, I’d like to say “SOLID WORK” to our and all members participating in this event. WELL DONE!

 

I think participation in events such as this and the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs brings “The Brotherhood” that much closer to where it should be!

As a matter of fact, I’m not the only one who thinks that way.

HERO RUSH is launching VERY soon.  Hero Rush was designed BY firefighters FOR firefighters. You can get all the pre-launch info, like them on Face Book and get their “Hydrant” newsletter by visiting  the Hero Rush Web Site …. check it out, it looks GREAT!

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

 

 

Posted by on October 13, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Sexy Farm girls, what every woman wants and Randy “doing it”

4 comments

I know … I know. SORRY for the lack in posting. I’ll try to make it up to ya this week. It’s the same old excuse … busy busy!

The weather broke and the Buckaroo and I have been hard at it.

Everyone keeps telling me that I need to hire a new farm manager and I think I have it narrowed down to one of these two.

Of course, it’s a two part interview to get hired on. My part is easy … I’d hire these two without hesitation. The hard part of landing this job is getting past the Buckaroo’s interview. His standards are pretty high. They will have to be able to “spike” a  juice pack while in a moving tractor. They must also be highly skilled at making a PB&J sandwich to perfection… crust removed and cut into triangles. LOL

All kidding aside, me and the little fella have been pretty busy. For the most part, we’ve been in the hay fields…. it’s been “square bale HELL” around here!

We’ve also been doing a little PR work.

We abandoned the fields for a quick trip to town. Actually, we went to the library (yea … I can read).

My oldest daughter is a librarian here in the city and she asked me to come spend some time with a group of  kids. How could we refuse?

We even took one of our Dalmatians along … “Remington” was a huge success!

The Buckaroo had a BLAST! He doesn’t get to see many kids his age out on the farm.

I made sure Randi (my daughter) picked out some books with BIG writing because I wanted to make sure the kids could see the words…LOL

The teachers were very impressed with my reading abilities …. I heard them say several times how I would fit right in with their class …LOL

I think that I had as much fun as the kids.

I enjoyed the day but also look at these type events as part of the job. I think it’s important for kids to see us in a “positive” or “friendly” way.

When you think about it, odd are that most of the time these kids will get to see me, someone is hurt, injured or something is on fire. Either of which is traumatic to children. Don’t let times like that be the only time children in your area get to see and spend time with you or your company.

 

Of course you all know that October is “Fire Prevention Month” so most companies here in “The Noke” have full schedules with “PR” events.

My trip to the Library was off duty and personal but last day, we took the Engine up to a local cookout in our 1st due.

Events like this are good for your company / Department as well.

Not only do you get to interact with the kids, you also get the chance to talk with their parents in a non-emergency situation.

This is a great opportunity to talk directly with the citizens you serve. A chance to explain face to face “what we do”. Most folks don’t know or understand the shifts we work. Often, they are uneducated about staffing issues or response times. Why Engines run on medical calls. Make the most of these events … promote your company / department in a positive manner and educate your “customers” on the important issues.

So, moving on to what every woman wants ….. NO … not me ….CHOCOLATE!

We had a visitor drop by today. I have posted about our good friend Roy Lane from the Kazim Temple’s Fire Brigade several times here on the site.

Roy stopped by today to drop off some chocolate bars. The Shriners sell these chocolate bars every year during Fire Prevention month to raise money for the children’s burn center.

What’s really cool about this year’s chocolate bars is the picture on the wrapper. It’s a photo I took several years back (2007) of some of the members from #9-C with the Shriners and their 52 Mack Fire Engine.

You can get a better look at the picture ( and the story behind it ) over in the archives of Roanoke Fire.com  by clicking HERE .

You read more about Roy and the Shriner’s by clicking  HERE  ( be SURE to do so … it’s a GREAT post ) or for more on their Engine, click   HERE

Our local Shriners will be out at  SAM’S CLUB and the Kroger in Cave Spring this weekend. If you get the chance, drop by and buy a candy bar ( $1 ) … it’s for a great cause and IT’S CHOCOLATE!

Ok … RANDY. Well, Randy aint here. He’s transferred out again. He will be all cycle. For those of you needing your “Randy fix” I do have some video of  him “doing it”. Don’t panic Miss Dana .. I’m not talking about footage from the weekend shacked up in Charlotte, I talking about Randy FIGHTING FIRE !  Of course it was just a dumpster but he was out there “doing it” man! Check it out ….

Special thanks to Lynn Eller for our local news station WDBJ7 for getting me the footage.

For those of you who don’t know, this weekend  ( October 14-16 ) is the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation Memorial weekend in Emmitsburg, Md.

Read about my first trip to the Memorial Weekend HERE   and   HERE  .

Rhett and I will be joining Firefighter Netcast one more time to work with Fire Hero Radio in recording stories from the survivors.

If you have any chance at all … make plans now to ATTEND! If you can’t don’t worry. Rhett, Dave and I will have live streaming video on our sites but trust me … this is an event that you will want to experience in person!

If you are planning to attend, be sure to look me and Rhett up. Shoot me a comment or e-mail and I’ll give you my cell or Rhett’s info can be found on his Face Book page. We always spend a little time at one of the local watering holes or the staff command center for a few adult beverages. Be sure to have your challenge coin in your pocket or you just may end up buying. If you don’t have a challenge coin, don’t panic…. Rhett and I now have our very own coins for sale. Actually, our are a little different from “traditional” challenge coins in that our’s are ceramic “chips”. We call them “Brotherhood Chips”

 Read more about our “Chips” over on Fire Critic.com

Sean over at TheChipSite.com fixed us up perfectly … these chips are AWESOME! All of our readers / followers should have one .. BOTH OF YA!

LOL … all kidding aside, we are very proud of the Chips. I’m sure we will hand out a select few but anyone can purchase one of their own for just $5.00 !

We both have links at the top of our sites or you can just click here to get yours now. The first person to slap one of our chips on the bar in front of us will have their beer paid for!

 

I’ve got a lot more to tell and catch ya up on but it will have to wait until tomorrow. We’re back to duty on Wednesday before starting our 4 day and heading up to Emmitsburg on Friday. Until I get back to ya … Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

Posted by on October 10, 2011 • Filed under: fire-prevention-education, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

High Rise training, fighting, dancing and a rodeo!

2 comments

I didn’t get a post up saturday night because I took  half the day off.

My beautiful bride and I attended her 25th high school reunion.

We had a very nice dinner and dance  at Mariner’s Landing  on nearby Smith Mountain Lake.

For those of you wondering …. YEA … I still “got it”. That 80′s music had me throwing down moves that would have made John Travolta   embarrased   proud!  LOL

Special THANKS to Brother Brad Dinwiddie from from Station #6 for hooking me up with a room.

I only took half the day off because we had a scheduled High Rise Drill first thing Saturday morning. The exercise was held at a 9 story apartment complex in my 2nd due. It’s our 2nd for a single engine response but we are on the 1st alarm assignment (2nd in) for fire calls. I ran this building a TON while assigned to station #9 …. IT’S A NIGHTMARE!

We all have one and THIS is the building that I worry about at night. I was happy to be there for yet another pre-fire plan / response exercise. As much as I have ran this location, I benifited from the drill SO…. you would think that one of the people who would benifit the most wouldhave  been  ”Rookie Randy” right???   ….. NOT!

Randy took the day off. The WHOLE day off (that’s another reason I couldn’t get the whole day … RANDY took it! ) It was to be Randy’s 1st day off since being assigned to companies and this is the day he picks.

Had I have known what he was going to do, I would have denied the day!

Apparently, Rookie Randy wants to be a cowboy. Not just any cowboy mind you… a  PBR Rodeo cowboy.

He missed multi-company training at our highest risk structure to go to a rodeo in Charlotte, NC!

Not only did he go …. he took poor little Miss Dana and shacked up in a hotel room somewhere down there.

Sinful is what it is and I guess in a round about way, I allowed it to happen. I’m supposed to be responsible for little Randy!  What kind of Captain does that make me?

Ashamed … that’s what I am … ASHAMED!

LOL … all kidding aside, Randy was very excited to get the day off and be able to take his fiance’  ”Miss Dana” down to the show.

Randy is a huge PBR fan and even rode bulls for a while before finding some easier work. Yea … he thinks working for me is easier than ridding bulls !!

I was a little worried at first. When Georgie, Boots and I reported for duty @ 7am on Saturday, the first thing we did was call to fret  check on Randy. You know, we wanted to make sure he got there safely and that little Miss Dana didn’t have him hog tied in the hot tub. Oh yea … his hotel room had a hot tub ( Like I said … SINFULL ! Poor little fella is still shriveled up like a prune ). Anyway, he didn’t answer his phone.

I mean we called every 10 minutes!  How was I to know that he wasn’t somewhere in a roadside ditch? How did we know he wasn’t in jail? Anything could have happened and here we were worried sick. What could he have been doing to keep him from answering the phone? Ugggggg! I think I aged 20 years worrying about the little fella. LOL

Well, he eventually returned our calls and eased our minds. He was safe and sound. They had a BLAST and made it safely home on Sunday. I’m glad he got the day off and was able to spend it with Dana doing something they enjoy. He’s been doing a FANTASTIC  job here at the station and without a doubt EARNED the day off.

So, while Randy was down in Charlotte having the time of his life, we were stuck here getting ready for a fight!

Any fire is a battle …. a high rise fire is WAR!

The good news is that I have a top notch crew. Boots (Todd Harris) will take on anything. If you see him and a bear fighting …. help the bear! LOL

Our scerario had fire showing from the 7th floor. Lucky #13 was assigned with Engine 5 and assigned to fire attack (just like it would happen if we actually had a fire there tonight). Just getting the hose and gear to the upper floors can be a challenge.

Successful midigation of a high rise fire is dependant on well disiplined firefighters. You have to know your job and be able to do it well.

That is, of course; unless you’re assigned to a truck company.

Then you just hand around and try to look good…LOL

All kidding aside, on a fire like this; all hands are working. In our Department, it would take a minimum of 2 alarms and most likely a 3rd just to accomplish simple tasks.

The first arriving truck companies will most likely be tied up making rescues from windows and balconies.

When these guys (or the 3rd & 4th due truck companies) get inside the building,  they will be assigned to search the fire floor and the floor above in most cases without the protection of a hose line!

This building has metal doors and jambs so forcable entry will be another factor to concider.

Of course  ”truckies” carry big heavy tools to help em open doors and such …. “IRONS” or something like that. All the Engine has to do is put the fire out!

LOL … Im not going to get into the  Truck vs Engine arguement because like I’ve said … on a fire like this, it takes EVERYONE (plus I’ve done BOTH truck and Engine work so I can pick on both or either).

On a high rise fire, if we can (depending on fire location and several other factors) we would take the elevators at least part of the way up. Sometimes that works, other times not so much.

I have always thought of this building as NOT even having an elevator. They are more ofter than not broken down or occupied on the upper floors by residents. Either way, I don’t trust em …WE HUMP THE STAIRS.

The attack crew has 5 sections of 2 1/2 inch hose, a “high rise pack”, TIC (thermal imaging camera), hand tools and extra bottles to carry up.

After we identify the fire floor, we would connect to the stand pipe on the floor below fire. We then stretch to the floor above and back down to the fire floor. Its easier to pull the hose down steps rather than up while advancing onto the fire.

We have to leave a member at the connection to monitor the pressure gauge.

We also need to think about “door control” on the fire floor ( possible civilians  using our stairway to exit the building etc).

Then we have to advance a 2 1/2 inch line down a smoke filled, super heated hallway and attack the fire.

Searches, rescues, evacuation or protect in place, ventilation, salvage and overhaul are other tasks that will need to be completed.

 

It’s not something that we do everyday here in “The Noke” so again .. it was a good training exercise!

We learned a few lessons. We did a lot of things right and found some things that we want to “tweek” a little.

Companies involved were Engines 5, 13, 4  Ladders 5, 2 Medic 5, RS1, and Battalions 2 and 1 (19 members). It was a good job by all members on scene!

So, there you have it some training / fighting … a little dancing and a rodeo!

We’re back on duty today and start 4 day break in the morning.  It’s been a pretty busy evening so far. Nothing spectacular but Randy did catch a decent dumpster fire. I left my camera at the station but luckily one of our local news stations was on scene. They had the camera set up before we arrived and got it all on film. RANDY WAS DOING IT !!!  ( I’ll have the video soon )

LOL … although it was just a dumpster fire, it made for good training for Randy. He was masked up and in proper / full PPE. He made a good stretch and knock down. EVERY incident is a learning experience and Randy is comming along just fine.

I’ll check in from the hay fields over 4 day. Until I do, you guys stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

 

Posted by on October 3, 2011 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,