Archives for fdny

See all posts in the network tagged with fdny

Forward thinking Chief vs. the “good ol boy system” … who has Public Safety’s best interest in mind for Botetourt County?

Botetourt County’s Emergency Services has made our local news again. Just over a year ago, the County hired Carr Boyd to serve as their Emergency Services Coordinator. It was a HUGE debate and met with a lot of criticism.

Several of the County’s Volunteer Chiefs ( two, more so than others ) were very out spoken and did not support the hiring of this position. At the time, it seemed as if their main argument against the position was that the Coordinator would have the authority to assume command of an emergency incident if necessary. One Chief (now former) was even quoted as saying ….

if an emergency services director assumes control of a scene “there are going to be a lot of hurt feelings and busted noses.”

They were using terms like “my scene” and saying things like they didn’t need anyone coming in “here” and telling them how or what to do. There were a lot of egos flying around and it seemed to me that the only people who could get hurt were the ones whom Botetourt’s Emergency Services were there to protect … it’s citizens and visitors.

Here’s a quote from an article I posted back when this all started … “This job is NOT ABOUT YOU or being in “CONTROL”. It’s not YOUR fire. It’s about the people we have sworn to serve and protect. There is no shame in asking for or accepting help. If supplemental paid positions will decrease response times and increase the level of Public Safety in Botetourt County, then I’m all for it and any Chief in his right mind should be as well. Drop the egos and do the right thing guys. DO YOUR JOB … I have family who lives there and I’m depending on you! ALL OF YOU !” Read that entire article in the link below …

VOLUNTEER VS. PAID …RESPECT MY AUTHORITAH !!!

Well, it took just over a year for them to accomplish their goal. I hope they’re happy.

Earlier this week, it was announced that Carr Boyd will resign from the position effective at the end of the month. Some local coverage and video in the links below …

From WDBJ 7

From Roanoke.com

Above, I said it took “them” just over a year to accomplish their goal. By that, I meant the group that opposed the position in the first place…. YEA …. they never went away (well … one of em did). Some are actually still serving as Volunteers within the County (some being Chief and/or Company Officers).

More “hurt feelings and busted noses” for Botetourt County’s Emergency Services.

First off, I’m EMBARRASSED. I’m embarrassed and ASHAMED. There’s a WHOLE lot more to this story than is being told (in the “main stream” media anyway).

I’m embarrassed and ashamed because it seems as if Chief Boyd has been hung out to dry. The only person stepping out in support of him is, the newly appointed (and former) Buchanan Volunteer Fire Chief; John Manspile. In an article on Roanoke.com Cheif Manspile said …

“He’s been exactly what this county needed,” Buchanan Volunteer Fire Chief John Manspile said. “He’s been doing what was practical, what needs to be done. … I can’t see where he’s done anything wrong.”

Chief Boyd has yet to comment publicly on the issue. He’s showing a level of tact and restraint I don’t think I myself possess.

I’ve been looking (waiting) for someone to EXPLAIN. To tell us the details. Why would Chief Carr relocate his family all the way from NC to work a single year and then retire? Because he was FORCED OUT … that’s why (or that’s my opinion anyway).

I’m getting reports (off the record) that some members of the group that initially opposed the position and Boyd’s hiring never gave up their fight.

Reportedly lead by one of the Volunteer Fire Chiefs, who is himself a convicted felon; this group set out to rid the County of Boyd and apparently they have succeeded … BUT AT WHO’S COST?

It’s rumored that the group discovered an issue with Boyd’s training. I say “rumored” because I haven’t confirmed it as of yet. We know he was a Captain (and “Acting” Battalion Chief) in Charlotte, NC before coming to Botetourt County. He must have had some training.

The rumor continues that the group took the issue to the Board of Supervisors and gave the option … Boyd’s resignation or the resignation of several of the volunteers. If that is indeed the case, and how it “went down”; then the Board made the WRONG decision.

Read “Volunteer Leadership” Click HERE

Is this a “paid vs volunteer” or a “good ol boy club” issue? The County has already said that they plan to fill the position. I wonder if the same group opposes that? Or maybe it was just Chief Boyd they opposed? I wonder who they would support for the position …. one of their own?

Someone who wouldn’t have to make the tough decisions. Someone who wouldn’t have to enforce policy? Ahhhhh ….. the ol 2 steps forward, 6 steps back game!

Read some of the comments from Roanoke.com Click HERE

Just recently, the Botetourt’s Board of Supervisors heard the story of Volunteer Companies being unable to staff units while citizens were on scene performing CPR for extended period of time.

Like many other Departments across the Country, Botetourt needs to find new ways to meet the needs of their citizens. They need to find a new way of doing business in relation to providing Emergency Services. Carr Boyd was doing just that.

I’m not sure if the answer is through a Combination , Career or all Volunteer System but I do know they need to become “forward thinking” rather than taking leaps backwards (like it appears they just have). I also feel that whatever direction they decide to go, convicted felons and those who place personal gain over Public Safety shouldn’t be a part of it. The past Buchanan “issues” in Botetourt should have proven that point to the Supervisors.

I have spoken to Carr Boyd recently. Although he would not comment on the current issues, he did share that his main concern at this point is assuring that the members of Botetourt’s Emergency Services are taken care of (career and volunteer members) through this ordeal.

I’m sure he could have “thrown some stones” …. he didn’t. Instead, he took the road of a good Officer … of a good Leader … even after all this, he’s “looking after the men” (and women). Carr Boyd is a CLASS ACT. I wish some of remaining Officers in Botetourt County were more like him.

I wrote this post a couple days ago and have had it awaiting publishing in my que. Apparently, someone was looking over my shoulder as I was typing. I say this because of a comment I received last night. If you missed it, I posted it in a short stand alone post late last night.

Use the link below and take a look… it may help you understand just a little more of some of the challenges (and types of people) Carr Boyd faced over the past year…

Read CHRISTINE PADERICK … STOP READING THIS SITE!

I say instead of the Director of Emergency Services, Botetourt should rid their Department of Felons and allow the professionals (volunteer and career) to do their jobs and perform their duties.

I have a LOT more to say on this issue and will continue to gather the facts for a follow up post.

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 18, 2013 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, funding-staffing, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Botetourt County Board of Supervisors, Botetourt County Director of Emergency Services, Botetourt County Va, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Carr Boyd, Christine Paderick, Dave Statter, FDNY, Felon firefighters, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, house fire, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, Scott Paderick, Social Media, Statter 911, Troutville VFD, Working fire

You can’t teach HEART!

2 comments

I’ve been using that saying for several years now and believe it to be true.

We are surrounded by the absolute best instructors this profession has to offer on a daily basis. They can teach most any subject … strategy and tactics, search and rescue, ventilation, water supply, pump / ladder ops, incident command, high rise firefighting, Mayday, RIC etc. The one thing they can’t teach is “HEART”. You either have it or you don’t.

I’m not sure I can exactly define what I mean by “heart” but it’s at least a passion for “the job” as well as the drive and determination to fulfill the duties expected of us (both on and off the fire ground). It’s the willingness and eagerness to “do the right thing” no matter the cost and to sacrifice for others.

I’ve always said that all I need is a month or two in the same station and/or one working fire to know whether or not a probie (or non-probationary firefighter for that matter) “gets it”. That quickly, I can determine if he or she has “heart”.

You can buy all the newest and latest gear. This gadget, that one and two more of these. You can put this sticker or that one on your helmet, this decal on the back window of your truck. Wear any tee-shirt you want with whatever logo or saying on it.

Give me one set of steps, leading to an attic where fire is rolling down on you while blowing out the eaves and/or dormer.

Push into the fire floor from the adjacent window or the floor above to search without a hose line. Try a little VES (Vent Enter Search) when the floor is rocking.

Crawl down a dark, black, smokey hallway. So dark you can’t see your nose or the lens of your mask. The heat so hot that every breath you take hurts. Reaching out … feeling for anything you can find…. a hole to fall into or a body…. who knows? It’s your first time in this situation …. you’ll wonder how close you’ll be to that body when you find it and what it will look like when you get there.

It’s already hot and getting hotter. Open the nozzle or not? Keep pushing or back out? Someone will understand …. the circumstances just weren’t where we needed them to be … right? Nobody will blame or question you. There are multiple reasons to quit and turn around but only two reasons to keep pushing…. 1.) Someone is (or may be) in there and 2.) this is what you took an oath and signed up for …. it’s your DUTY and job!

Do you have the HEART to push on or will you quit? It’s not easy … if it was, any and everyone would do it. If you don’t (have the heart), I’m sorry…. IT CAN’T BE TAUGHT.

Follow Ironfiremen.com of Face Book Click HERE

How about the EMS call at 3am? The nausea and vomiting for 2 days. The abdominal pain or difficulty breathing despite the fact they smoke 3 packs a day.

Do you get up bitching? Complaining and cursing? Are you mad because you came to work, fully knowing your job was to staff the ambulance ; and they actually asked you to run a call? Did you think there was a call volume “limit” when you joined?

Or, do you realize that although this is your 15th call of the tour, it may be the caller’s 1st emergency. Do you even consider that the person you’r responding to may be a family member of mine. Maybe they are kin to someone you work with…. maybe they are related to you? If you knew that going in, would your outlook have changed? It shouldn’t …. every run should receive the same commitment.

To me, that’s a little bit about what “HEART” is on the job….. it’s doing our job and doing it with PRIDE, HONOR and RESPECT.

There is also “HEART” away from the job and I guess the better word there would be “off duty” because those of you who have “HEART” are never really “off the job”.

Rhett and I are fortunate in that we Know, meet and see a lot of Brothers and Sisters who “get it” … who have “HEART” and/or display, understand and promote “The Brotherhood”. We see examples of it on a daily basis because we know what we’re looking for. The sad part of what we see is that so many Brothers and Sisters look right past it never knowing what they saw.

I could give ya many, many examples but instead, I want to share just a few with ya from our experience at FDIC 2013 (this will by far not be ALL the examples we encountered).

Take the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb for example.

This is the first time FDIC has had 343 climbers. This year, they actually surpassed that number.

NONE of these climbs are easy. I often see folks in the staging areas and think to myself … “”they are going to have a hard time making 110 stories”. They HAVE to know that going into the climb themselves yet, they register and show up anyway. THEY CLIMB! That’s HEART!

During the climb, you’ll find many who, instead of making a “race” out of it; stay behind to assure every member completes their journey (climb). Anybody can pass the Brother or Sister in front of them and push on to “look good”. It takes HEART to hold back and assure nobody is left behind.

I’m surrounded by Founding and Committee Members of the Stair Climbs. You would think “that” sacrifice would be enough.

NOPE … Brothers like Rhett Fleitz, Brian Brush and Andrew Catron continue to climb. For them, this is their 6th or 7th climb (maybe even more for Brian).

Why? They’ve done their duty. By completing just one, they’ve accomplished more than most. For them (us) it’s not about that. It’s about HONOR. Honoring our fallen.

It’s about SUPPORT. Supporting the NFFF and our fallen’s families.

These Brothers “GET IT”. Not only that, they want YOU to get it as well! They promote the Climbs and sacrifice their time to serve on committees, organize events etc.

I’m not saying you have to “climb” to “get it” but these Brothers DO and that’s why they CLIMB!

I’ll give ya another example…. Kim Fitzsimmons.

Many of you may know Kim from her Face Book Page. Others may know her from her fire ground photography (or her drawings with red crayons…LOL)

Some will know her as a member of the National Firefighter’s Endowment “Officer’s Club”.

Seems like a pretty full plate towards “the Brotherhood”, “getting it” and/or having “Heart” huh? Well, Kim learned of the “Meet-Up” Rhett and I were having at FDIC and she decided she just couldn’t miss it. She drove all the way up to FDIC just to attend our Meet-Up knowing it was sponsored in part by the NFE! She wasn’t “looking” for anything …. she wanted to support and promote the NFE while sharing and spreading The Brotherhood. She made the drive alone … she “gets it”. Kim has HEART!

Here’s another NFE Officer Club Member who “gets it” ….Jill Boden.

Jill attended FDIC all week. We first met her at the FOOLS Bash but have known her for some time now through her Face Book page as well as the Officer’s Club.

She attended the NFFF Stop Drop and Rock and Roll Event as well …. anywhere support for the Brother / Sisterhood was needed, Jill could be spotted.

She “worked the room” of our Meet-Up like a pro. Introducing herself and spreading the word about the NFE, the NFFF and more. Jill also “gets it” and she displayed it all week!

Lori Mercer is another one with “HEART”

Lori is and runs Firefighter Wife.com .

Not only does she look after us …. she’s devoting her time to take care of our spouses as well!

Her mission … “Strengthen, ignite and rescue Firefighter marriages. Nurture our fire wife community with encouragement, support and friendship. To Build up our fire wives in mind, body and spirit to be wise, strong and enduring. To bring an even deeper sense of community to the fire service family” .

Must I say more? OBVIOUSLY … Lori “GETS IT”. I hope you get it too! Use the links below to get a head start …..

Firefighter Wife.com Firefighter Wife on Face Book

Ok …for a final two (but not the only remaining) examples from FDIC, I’ll go back to our Meet-Up.

At the end of the night, a young (or at least “younger”) Brother came up to me. He wanted to buy me a beer (the event was over and the open bar changed to cash bar). He was in the group of members from Tennessee that included Shane Lester and William Banks.

Some wore helmets, others cowboy hats. They were ALL Brothers who obviously “get it”.

Anyway, I already had 2 full beers in my hand (I know…. what are the odds of that…LOL) and it was last call.

I told this young brother that instead of buying me a beer that I obviously didn’t need, to give the $5 he was going to spend to the Sons of the Flag Burn Foundation .

I watched as he walked over to Ryan, Zane, Nathan and Rob Wiedmann and handed them the money. HE HANDED THEM THE MONEY! I can’t tell you how good it felt to see a young member “GET IT”. I hope he understands what (and why) he did what he did. He summed up what our Meet-Up was all about!!

Some many other Brothers and Sisters in attendance that night kept thanking me and Rhett for hosting the event. They kept saying that we were what the Brotherhood was all about and how much they looked up to what we do for the fire service.

I explained to each of them …. Rhett, Shane (NFE), Andrew and I did nothing. We rented a room and bought a bunch of beer.

They …. EVERY Brother and Sister in attendance did so much more. They gave the true display of Brother.

Again I’ll say that I and many others can / could teach you / them to perform most any task required of us in the Fire Service. We CAN’T teach them to sacrifice their time and money to spend time promoting the Brotherhood and supporting organizations worthy of our attention.

YOU CAN’T TEACH HEART!

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 30, 2013 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Andrew Catron, Brian Brush, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDIC, FDIC 2013, FDIC Meet Up, FDIC Memorial Stair Climb, FDNY, FDNYs Bravest, fire, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, Firefighter Wife, firefighters, Fools Bash, house fire, Jill Boden, Kim Fitzsimmons, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Michael Dick, Model City Firefighter, NFFF, Ray McCormick, Sons of the Flag Burn Foundation, Statter 911, Stop Drop and Rock and Roll

FDIC 2013 Ironfiremen & Fire Critic Style!

2 comments

FDIC 2013 was a HUGE success!

Despite having to drive 8 hours in the pouring rain, we made it home safely. I hope everyone else did as well.

I’m worn out … mentally and physically. Spent some time with the Buckaroo and my beautiful bride before heading out to the hot tub for a little “unwind” time while thinking over everything we experienced this week.

Can you tell by the pic? You can take the fireman out of FDIC but you can’t take FDIC out of the fireman! LOL

What I mean by that is FDIC is so huge and all encompassing that there’s no way you can attend and not come away with something. A full week of training and Brotherhood shared by the absolute BEST in our business! I’ll share with ya a little of what I experienced and brought home …

Unfortunately, Rhett and I did not attend any of the training this year. Our schedule simply wouldn’t allow it.

This year, we represented 2 GREAT companies and friends of the Fire Service while working their booths on the exhibit floor.

Black Diamond Boots asked us to be in their booth this year and we couldn’t have been more pleased. Rhett and I are both big fans of Black Diamond and the X2 Boot. We wear them in our gear and have for years.

That’s what makes it easy for us to be in a booth like Black Diamonds (that and the “Booth Babes”) …. it’s a great product and we use it daily. We believe in it and can talk to potential buyers in an up front and honest manner.

When we’re standing there selling these boots, we are WEARING them. We wear them ALL DAY LONG … 3 days in a row! We work in them, we climb in them. We can do this because they are a great boot …. they fit well and they’re comfortable.

Would you trust a fire boot salesman wearing Nike tennis shoes? I didn’t think so. Anyway, we got to meet a lot of great Brothers and Sisters shopping for boots. We (Black Diamond) even gave a pair away each day. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to try on a pair. It was GREAT meeting you all. We know you’re gonna love this boot so be sure to visit their web site or find them on Face Book to locate your local dealer.

Black Diamond Boots Dealer locator Black Diamond on Face Book

We only spent 4 hours with Black Diamond. The rest of our time on the floor was spent with Zach Green in the MN8 FoxFire booth.

Rhett and I have been part of the FoxFire Family for several years now. We’re a natural fit!

It’s another product that we use every day on the job. It’s a product geared toward firefighter safety and accountability …. AND IT WORKS!

By firefighters for firefighters … who understands us better?

This year was VERY exciting for Zach and our team as we unveiled several NEW PRODUCTS at the show. One of those products is a SCBA Identifier Tag. Another GREAT “Illuminating” product to aid us in visibility and accountability.

We also had our good friends from Box Alarm Leather in the booth to help promote our Illuminating Radio Straps.

That’s right …. made right here in the USA by Box Alarm Leather, they come with a lifetime warranty and THEY GLOW!

Rhett and I have been big fans of Box Alarm for years as well. GREAT quality with quick and reliable service. They are the company who made our custom fronts as well.

You can purchase the Radio Strap, a universal radio case and anti-sway strap as a complete kit or purchase them separately (they ALL “Illuminate”!!!). Be sure to visit these links to learn more and order yours today!

Find MN8 FoxFire on the Web or on Face Book

Find Box Alarm on the Web or on Face Book

I guess I should back up just a little an say that we arrived to FDIC on Wednesday.

We parked the “Blog Mobile”, ran our bags up to the room and headed out to the F.O.O.L.S Bash.

The Bash is ALWAYS a good time and we haven’t missed one yet!

The only thing we enjoy more than meeting all the Brothers and Sisters at the Bash is when the Pipes and Drums start to play!

I posted a short video of them playing in a previous post this week … CLICK HERE to see it.

Like I mentioned above, beyond the training events at FDIC, there are PLENTY of “Brotherhood” related events.

Another one that we NEVER miss is the Stop Drop and Rock and Roll event put on to benefit the NFFF (National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation) .

It’s a GREAT event! “Over the past ten years, Stop, Drop, Rock ‘n’ Roll has played an important part in helping us honor America’s fallen firefighters. It is a chance for firefighters to give back to the fire service and have fun at the same time. Through a small donation at the door you have all helped the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation honor and support the families of firefighters who have died in the line of duty.”

This years entertainment was none other than Darryl Worley and he did ONE HELL OF A JOB!

He played acoustic and sounded GREAT and even took the time to sign autographs and pose for pictures afterwards. He ended the show with one of his hits, “Have you forgotten?”

The only thing better than listening to Darryl sing was getting to dance to his music with the CEO of Phenix Helmets, Nicole Clesceri ! I’m not sure of the final numbers but I think the auction went ok as well this year. I do know that everyone in attendance had a good time and we can only hope we raised a LOT of money for the NFFF and our surviving families.

Another event we attended was the Fire Rescue, Fire / EMS Blog Network and Firefighter Nation “Meet Up”.

For those of you who don’t know, Rhett, Dave Statter and I (along with SEVERAL others) have our sites hosted by the Fire / EMS Blog Network. The Network is FULL of many great writers providing us all with a variety of resources related to the job.

Fire Rescue Magazine Editor in Chief, Tim Sendelbach recognized several of our writers for their contributions this year. I was honored to have been one of those recognized. It was totally unexpected … I was humbled and HONORED.

Afterwards, we headed over to dinner with our MN8 FoxFire family.

Every year at FDIC, Zach treats the team to dinner on Friday night.

It amazed me to think back over the past few years and realize just how much (and quickly) our team / family has grown.

Maybe that explains why Zach and MN8 FoxFire was presented the Ohio Chamber of Commerce’s Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award earlier this month. This year, there were at least 20 people at our dinner! next year, we just may have to rent out the entire building!

Speaking of renting out an entire Building …. later that evening, Rhett and I also hosted our very own “Meet-Up” at the Hard Rock Cafe and it too was a HUGE success!

WOW! There were 100-150 people who came out to share a few drinks and some Brotherhood with us. We have always wanted to do something like this but for one reason or another haven’t been able to pull it off.

Our good friend and Brother Andrew Catron, from the blog The Model City Firefighter took the lead for us and put the event together. We couldn’t have done it without him! Shane Parkins, another great friend, Brother and President of the National Firefighter’s Endowment was also a huge contributor in that he helped sponsor the event. We should also mention (and THANK) Rob Schield from Fire Cam and Chris McCorkle form Blackjack Flashlight Holders for providing some great gifts for us to give away at the event!

For me, beyond the attendance; there were several highlights of the evening. The first, was a special presentation made to me by Erin and Stephen Foster of Ayden’s Gifts .

“Our missions are to bring handmade memorials to those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones. Our goal is to paint something for you to cherish for years to come! Whether it is a plate, mug or figurine!”

This presentation was totally unexpected and caught me off guard. HONORED and HUMBLED doesn’t even begin to define what (or how) I felt. I’ve spoken here on the site many times of late about showing and sharing emotions (despite the outer appearance of being “tough” firefighters) …. Erin and Stephen brought me to tears that night and it happened in front of a huge crowd.

Im still not quite sure what to say.

The quote above is from their site and as far as I’m concerned, they have succeeded in accomplishing their mission! Just look at the detail here.

It’s in Carolina Blue … Jackson’s favorite team / color. It has the Carolina logo. The foot, to me; symbolizes all the “foot prints” Jackson left in my life and on my heart. The quote on the outer rim is from an Allison Krauss song that I posted about just a few weeks back in a post called “Positional Awareness … Where the Hell am I ??” .

PLEASE …. take the time to check out their site. Read the story of why they do what they do and look at some of their art work. Be sure to like and follow them as well.

Adyden’s Gifts Blog Ayden’s Gifts on Face Book

Another highlight for the night was having FDNY’s Rescue 2 member Rob Wiedmann stop by.

You may remember Rob (and Firefighter Gersbeck) was seriously burned in a December 19, 2011 Crown Heights fire in Brooklyn, Ny. It was an unimaginable event that was caught on video. Dave Statter still has it up over on Statter911.com CLICK HERE for the video .

Rhett, Zach(MN8 FoxFire) and I teamed up to collect money for Rescue 2′s MayDay Fund which supported the families of Rob and James. Our reader support for the fund raiser was nothing short of amazing AMAZING and we soon hand delivered a check to Captain Flaherty and the members of rescue 2.

Read about it in a previous post of mine “Money WELL Spent!” .

Rob actually dropped by our booth on the exhibit floor of FDIC. We said he simply wanted to stop by to say hello and thanks us once again for our efforts following his injury.

He also wanted to assure his gratitude was passed along to all of you who gave support (including thoughts, prayers etc).

Rob is a GREAT guy who for me, defines the meaning of HEART. I have a saying I use often … “You can’t teach heart” and Rob is a prime example.

His training and instinct played a huge role in getting him out of that building BUT … it was also “HEART”. Heart has kept him going throughout his healing process (28 months now with more surgeries scheduled). Heart drives him to continue to get out and promote the Fire Service and our Brotherhood. I’ll have more on “Heart” in an upcoming post ….
Rob was there with a few Brothers from Sons of the Flag Burn Foundation , Ryan “Birdman” Parrott, Zane, and Nathan.

You’re going to start hearing a lot about these guys and their efforts here on Ironfiremen.com in the future. We asked Ryan (the group’s founder) to say a few words at the Meet-Up and then we passed my boot around for their cause. We raised $730.00 in about 10 minutes! Be sure to check out the links below to learn more about these guys …

Sons of the Flag Web Site Sons of the Flag on Face Book

Again I’ll add that what really “made” the meet-up was everyone who attended. We got (and continue to get) so many comments about how much we (Rhett and I) are doing for the Brotherhood. I explained to several of the folks there that night …. we didn’t do anything. We rented a room and bought some beer. YOU GUYS … you Brothers and Sisters are the ones who showed up. You’re the ones who sacrificed your time and made the decision to attend. YOU are the the ones who “made” the event …. THAT Brothers and Sisters was the display of Brotherhood that night! Thanks again for attending!

Rhett did a little “name dropping” and shared his views on our Meet-Up and FDIC in general over on the Fire Critic. He also has links to some great pictures … read that post in the link below

FDIC Wrap Up: The FireCritic and Ironfiremen Meetup

There is so much more I want to share about our Meet-Up but I think I’m going to work it into one of my next posts. All in all, FDIC was a huge success for us and we can’t wait until our next event.

Thanks to EVERYONE who took the time to come up and speak to us. Be sure to follow us on Face Book to find more pictures and info on FDIC and more! Be sure to keep check back and THANKS for following …

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book Click HERE

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 29, 2013 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, fires, news, Training, Uncategorized • Tagged: Ayden's Gifts, Black Diamond Boots, Box Alarm Leather, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Darryl Worley, Dave Statter, FDNY, fire, Fire Critic, fire video, firefighter, firefighter pics, Fools Bash, house fire, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, NFFF, Phenix Fire Helmets, Sons of the Flag Burn Foundation, Stop Drop and Rock and Roll, Zach Green

Pipes and Drums! F.O.O.L.S Bash FDIC 2013

1 comment

Here’s a short video of some Pipes and Drums from the FOOLS Bash last night here at FDIC. I’ll get a more details post up as soon as I can. Meanwhile, if you’re here; be sure to stop by the MN8 FoxFire booth (#5571) or the Black Diamond Booth (#2401 between 4-6pm) and say hello.

See more pics etc from FDIC on my Face Book page by clicking HERE

Stay Safe and in House!
Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 25, 2013 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: Bag Pipes, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDIC, FDIC 2013, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, house fire, leather helmets, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, Morning Pride, Phenix Helmets, Pipes and Drums

Survivors

No comments

Someone called me that the other day …. a “survivor” (as in a suicide survivor). I’ve never thought of it that way but it actually makes sense.

It’s been 75 days since my brother Jack made the decision to end his life and I’m still struggling through the loss. I’m still going through the grieving process and fighting depression.

I don’t know if I’m a “survivor” but I am surviving ….. day by day.

It’s been a rough few months and the past couple of weeks haven’t made it any easier. Two of my family members have had major surgeries or procedures and the LODD (Line Of Duty Death) of Scott Morrison on March 3rd hit close to home. Scott was a good friend and huge supporter… professionally and personally.

That word … “survivor” keeps popping up in my head…. I guess there are a lot of us.

Scott didn’t survive his fatal heart attack but his friends and family will.

There were (are) so many left behind that have to find a way to keep living… to keep moving forward with their lives despite their search for the answer to their question “why?”.

Scott is survived by a wife (Jessica) and two children (Kaitlyn and Sean). He is also survived by his Knotts Island Fire Department family (he was their Chief) as well as by “The Brotherhood”, and friends and family from all across the Nation. Scott left many survivors.

Rhett had some links and more on Scott’s death over on Fire Critic.com. Click HERE to read that post.

I didn’t attend the funeral. I had planned on it and intended to but I couldn’t. I couldn’t attend another funeral, see another casket or loved ones hurting. I wasn’t strong enough … I wish I was and regret not going.

Read Rhett’s post “Go to the funeral …You OWE it to them” from back in June 2011

I was already on the road the weekend of Scott’s funeral. I was in Charlottesville, Va at the University of Virginia Medical Center.

That Friday, my Senior Firefighter; “Boots” underwent some major surgery.

He’s actually been fighting for some time now. I haven’t talked about it here out of respect for his privacy but he’s given me permission to mention it now.

Boots had cancer …. now he doesn’t.

Now, he is a “SURVIVOR”.

With 25 years on the job, Boots is a GREAT Firefighter. More importantly he’s an even better person! He’s the type of man who is always giving and never taking. Always putting others first … never thinking of himself.

He didn’t deserve this battle but he’s quietly fighting it.

I’ve always known Boots was a fighter. I’ve always known he was strong … I just never realized how strong. Pushing down hallways or making rooms is one thing …. this is something different. Something much, much different.

They first tried radiation and he continued to report for duty. Many days, he left the station for his treatment and then returned for the remainder of the tour.

The radiation didn’t work and surgery was the only remaining option. On Friday, he spent over 5 hours in surgery. His recovery will be much longer.

For our local Brothers and Sisters, he is unable to accept calls at this times and is respectfully asking for no visitors. You can send him messages through any of my accounts (click for my e-mail or Face Book) and I will see to their delivery. If you’d like to send a card or something you can bring it by or mail it to the station (in attention to “Boots”) and I’ll get it to him. Message me here if you need the address or feel free to give me a call.

Tonight’s evening news reminded me of more survivors …. our Brothers and Sisters, as well as the many residents; of Breezy Point (and other areas affected by Super Storm Sandy).

These Brothers and Sisters not only lost $20,000 in band equipment, many lost their homes and personal belongings.

It’s not stopping them. They continue to play and will be on 5th Avenue tomorrow for the famed New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade. They too are “survivors” and they’re doing it so that others may too (survive).

“It’s good emotionally for us to be out there and get a sense of normalcy,” said Williams. “We’re still here. We’re still doing what we’re doing and we will get past this terrible devastation.” (a quote from Band founder and Pipe Major Terrence Williams at nydailynews.com)

Read the entire story from the Daily News by clicking HERE

I guess the point I wanted to make tonight is that there are “survivors” all around us. Many that we may have never noticed or thought of as survivors but they are there. I’m one of them. Despite my lack of postings / social media presence, I am surviving…. maybe you are too.

Read my post “We are all Climbing“

Instead of writing, I’ve spent the time with family (of course you … my readers / followers are family as well). I apologize for for not keeping you posted etc and want to thank all of you for the messages, e-mails etc sent checking on me.

Although I’ll never be the “same” again, I will find my “New Normal” . I’ve put my “boots” back on and now, I just need to get my focus back (click the bold quotations for previous related posts). I’m getting there. Thanks for hanging with and helping me throughout this journey…. I couldn’t do it without you!

Stay SAFE and in House ….

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on March 15, 2013 • Filed under: ems-health-safety, firefighter-safety-health, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2013 LODD, Black Diamond Boots, Breezy Point, brotherhood, cancer, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, emotional health, FDNY, Fire Critic, Firefighter cancer, firefighter emotional health, firefighter pics, firefighters, house fire, Knotts Island Volunteer Fire Dept, LODD, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, NFFF, NY Daily News, NY St Patrick's Day Parade, Pipes and Drums, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Scott Morrison, Social Media, St Patrick's Day Parades, Statter 911, Super Storm Sandy, survivors, Todd Harris, Working fire

Climbing out ….

7 comments

The good news is that I’m back in my “boots”. I’m back in bunker gear and pulling regular tours.

The bad news is that I’m still not 100% and I know I never will be again. I’m still working through the grieving process and searching for my “new normal” (read my previous post “Searching for a New Normal” by clicking HERE) .

In another previous post (“Melt Down”) , I told ya about the “stages of grief” and how grief is as individual as the person suffering through it. We don’t necessarily go through the stages in order and by no means in the same way.

I’m currently working through the “depression” stage (and, I believe; suffering through PTSD).

I was expecting it but have never fully understood exactly what “depression” was. I’m learning the hard way.

My thoughts continue to wonder with every waking moment and it’s difficult for me to focus.

I still can’t eat. I just don’t have an appetite … I’m not hungry. When I try to force myself to eat, I throw it back up so I figure why bother.

I’m sleeping some at night now but I’m not REALLY “sleeping”. I’m tired all the time and can’t motivate myself to get out and do anything. I try to make myself go “somewhere” or do “something” but I don’t. I know I need to.

I haven’t even been able to write (evident in my recent lack of postings and absence from Face Book).

I’m not getting along well with others … I just want to be alone.

All these things seem so petty and easy to fix but they’re not.

That’s the hardest part for me. I know what’s happening and what I need to do ….. I just can’t muster the energy or motivation to get it done.

I have to start climbing my way out of this hole … I thought I have been but it doesn’t feel like I’m making much progress. I can’t stay here (like this) forever.

One of the folks I’ve been seeing offered a prescription for anti-depressants. It’s not for me. There’s a small part of me that almost took her up on it just so I could learn for myself (and share with you folks) if they (the pills) “really” work or not. Unfortunately, I’m not the “pill” taking kind ( I hardly even even take an aspirin) so I won’t be able to tell you “first hand” about anti-depressants. I can tell you that depression is REAL . It’s an illness that can be crippling.

I see a lot of it in the firehouse for one reason or another. Not just in situations like mine (the loss of a loved one) but also over financial issues, marital problems etc. If you want to learn more about depression and take your “Depression IQ quiz”, take a minute and CLICK HERE .

The best thing for me has been talking about it. Getting “it” out of my head and off my chest. I’ve wrote about them a lot here lately but once again, I want to share with you some folks who you CAN TALK TO. People who understand and that do MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

These folks are not just for you or me either. They are there for our Brothers and Sisters as well and it’s up to us to let them know that help is available. PAY ATTENTION … look around you. If someone in your company, your Battalion, Department or whatever is needing help, point them in this direction. You know … firefighter “so and so” whos wife just left him. Ol “what’s his name” from Engine whatever who just took a 3rd mortgage out because he lost his 2nd job. That S.O.B on the Ladder who we all know has been drinking too much …. all these Brothers have someone to turn to. Let them know before it’s too late. Here are the links ….

Grief.com, Recover from Grief.com , The Sweeney Alliance,Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, North American Firefighter Veteran Network

I had a bad day yesterday. Like most everyday, there’s always something that will remind me of Jackson.

I pulled a tour Saturday (we work 24hr shifts) and when I got home yesterday morning, the Buckaroo was waiting for me. It was 8am , he missed his “Paw-Paw” and wanted to play.

He got his motorcycle toy out. It’s like the old Evil Knievel wind up toy. If you’re a boy and anywhere near my age (44), I’d bet you had one.

I showed him how to use some books / magazines to make a ramp so we could make some jumps down the hallway. It was just how me and Jack did it when we were kids.

I could see us like it was just yesterday. Then the thought hit me (as it always does in situations like this) …. I wanted to call Jackson and tell him what we were doing. He would LOVE it! Knowing that me and the Buckaroo were doing exactly what he and I did as kids. I know he’d remember our ramps … our jumps…. fighting over who went next…. he’d understand and know EXACTLY what we were feeling / doing. He’d have that unforgettable smile on his face just thinking about it.

I’ll never get to make “those” calls again … not to Jackson and it’s killing me. This grief … the depression…. it keeps knocking me down but I won’t let it keep me here.

Like I said in the beginning of this post, I have to start climbing my way out of this hole.

“CLIMBING”…… Seems I wrote about that one time …. back in July of 2011 actually in a post titled “We are all Climbing” (Take the time to hit the link and read that post … I think you’ll find it worthwhile). Stairs, ladders or whatever obstacle, it seems we all are indeed “climbing”.

Me? I’m gonna find my way out …. I’m gonna find that “new normal” because I’m going to keep climbing …. it’s all I know to do.

I’m gonna start by getting out of town again. I’m going to head up north and spend a little time in NYC and out on Long Island.

I’m going to attend the Long Island Fire, Rescue and EMS Mega Show on Feb. 23rd / 24th. I’ll be working the booth with my MN8 FoxFire family but I’ll also be doing what I love best … meeting, spending time with and talking to all the Brothers and Sisters in attendance. I think it will be just what I need to get “moving” again …. to “re-engage” and get “back in the game”.

I’ll get ya more details in the next day or so …. until then, thanks again for all the support. Thanks too for allowing me to share all of this with you …. I LOVE YA ALL!

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 18, 2013 • Filed under: administration-leadership, ems-health-safety, ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Baltimore, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Depression, emotional health, Evil Knievel, FDNY, FDNY Rescue 1, Fire Critic, Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, firefighter health and wellness, Firefighter mental health, Firehouse Expo 2011, Fox Fire, grief, Jack Wines, Joe Schmoe, Joey Angelini, Joseph Angenlini, Kevin Totten, Kevin Tottin, Long Island Fire Rescue and EMS Mega show, mental health, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 products, NFFF, North American Firefighter Veteran Network, Paul Combs, Report on Conditions, Rescue 1, Rescue me, Rhett Fleitz, September 11, September 11 attacks, stages of grief, stair climb, Statter 911, The Sweeney Alliance, Tommy Gavin, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, World Trade Center attacks

The perfect gift …

6 comments

Yesterday, November 17, 2012; was my youngest daughter’s 24th birthday.

I can remember the morning she was born vividly. I got home just in time to rush Donna to the hospital. Within minutes after arriving, Rebecca Sue Wines became part of our lives.

There’s been a ton of stories and lessons learned over the last 24 years. Many say that she’s the spitting image of her father and, if true; could explain many of those stories.

Like in most families, I’d imagine; not all the stories are fairy tale like. At the ripe old age of 6 or 7, she had even decided to run away from home. She packed 20 pair of socks, 1 pair of underwear, an electric tooth brush and a TV remote control into a grocery bag (she was in for the “long haul”…LOL). She was going to live with her Paw-Paw.

Back then, it was humorous and almost “cute” (There was no way her little stinky butt would make it more than 1 day with only 1 pair of panties! LMAO ). Later in life, it’s not so funny. Our kids aren’t necessarily trying to “run away” anymore but, because we’ve raised them to be independent; they are trying to get out on their own and make their own way in life.

For me, that’s always been the hard part. Letting them go. I’d bet many of my Brother and Sister firefighters have the same problem.

We are protective in nature (as firefighters and parents). Maybe too much so. For me, it’s always boiled down to what I (we) do. Risking our lives, rescuing, providing comfort / care and shielding from harm people we don’t even know. If I do that for a complete stranger, shouldn’t I also do the same for my own daughters (and to a higher degree)?

Well to do so, I want them close by. Right beside me so I’m sure to be there when needed. Not so easy a task after they’ve grown up and forged lives of their own.

Maybe part of wanting to keep them close by is out of guilt (for me anyway). For so much of their young lives, I was off doing just that … watching over complete strangers. I was at the firehouse instead of by their side. I missed the school plays, dances etc.

I worked two and sometimes three jobs. I wanted to give them everything I thought they wanted or needed. I somehow had the idea that material things mattered and I was never home.

Too little, too late or a complete misunderstanding of what was really important? Maybe both…. either way, it’s on me.

Somewhere along the lines, it happened. My two little girls grew up. Despite my misgivings (and thanks to the best wife / mother in the world), they both grew into beautiful, strong, independent young women.

I spent all that time trying to provided for them and instead, they’ve given me the perfect gift.

Randi-Jo is a graduate from Va Tech and Florida State. She holds several degrees including a Masters. She is a librarian in the City and is currently shopping to buy her first house.

Reba’s path was somewhat different. She finished school and started work but had gotten pregnant at an early age. As you can imagine, I was furious! I wanted more for her than what her mother and I had. I had hoped she (or Randi) wouldn’t have to face the same struggles. I had no idea what a blessing this pregnancy would be.

On April 17, 2008 the Buckaroo was born and my baby girl became a mother.

She’s a single mom bearing the responsibility in the absence of the father.

She’s worked hard and provided for the Buckaroo from the very beginning. A huge and daunting responsibility that she tackled head on.

As the Buckaroo has grown, so have we. I’ve become the kind of man as a grandfather that I should have been as a father (and know that I still have a long way to go). I don’t know that I would have learned some of the lessons I have otherwise.

Reba has matured as well. She was a good kid, she’s an even better mother.

She now understands what it means to sacrifice for your children…. to NEED and WANT to.

She understands responsibility and has accepted hers.

I think she’s seen and now understands everything her mother did to prepare her for the challenges of life. I think she also knows that one day, she too will face many of those same challenges.

I can’t put into words the feeling I have from watching her grow and mature. PRIDE isn’t even close to covering it.

She (as well as Randi and their mother) is amazing in everything she does.

The funny thing is that she still thinks I am.

About 2 years ago, Rhett and I were in Atlanta for Fire Rescue International and our 2nd 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Reba sent me an e-mail that brought me to tears. I printed it out and carry it in my turnout coat. Here’s what she said …

“Dad , today after reading your most recent blog ” we are all climbing ” I wanted to tell you …..
Your the most amazing selfless person I know … You work so hard to save people you don’t know and at the same time are working hard to save all of us … You use your spare time to spread the word of your great job that in my opinion and yours you can’t call a ” job” it’s just something you were meant to do …. There is no one else in this world like you !!!! ( well the buckaroo and I – but we are exceptions bc we are only a mold ) …. Good luck on your climb I know you can do it ESP bc of the cause but also because I’ve never seen ANYTHING you can’t do !!!! ( well you might not be able to carry Rhett lol unless u had to ) ….. Anywho …. Just wanted to let you know your amazing in everything you do and the buckaroo and I love and miss you very much …. Be safe have fun ,
Love .. Reba and YOUR buckaroo ”

You can read the post that sparked her e-mail by using the link below. You can also find out exactly how the Atlanta trip went in the 2nd link provided …. check em out.

Read “We are all climbing” by clicking HERE

Read about Atlanta and the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb HERE

Maybe I did manage to do a little something right.

To see the woman she’s grown into over the last 24 years, to see how she’s raised the Buckaroo and all the lessons shes learning puts my mind at ease.

I think she understands at least a little of what it’s going to take and I have all the confidence that she’ll succeed.

It’s the perfect gift for a not so perfect father.

Again, the ironic thing here is that it’s HER birthday and I’m the one getting a gift (or at least that’s how I feel).

I hope she enjoyed #24 and can’t wait to know what she’s thinking on the Buckaroo’s 24th…. 20 years will go by in the blink of an eye (TRUST ME … the last 24 or hers and 4 of his did anyway).

So HAPPY 24th BIRTHDAY to my baby girl, Rebecca Sue Wines “Reba”!

I LOVE YOU more than I’ll ever be able to explain.

THANKS for all the “gifts” you’ve provided me over the last 24 years.

I hope you have all the blessings in life that you, Randi and the Buckaroo have provided your mother and me.

I hope you find everything in life and achieve every goal you reach for. I know you will.

Try to remember the good things I’ve tried to teach you (both of em …lol) and learn from the rest. If you manage that, you’ll be fine.

I’ll add this pic to remind you just how strong you are (and to embarrass ya a little more) … just look at those “muskles” .

And before the comments start rolling in …. just like with my sisters … the answer is NO! Settle down boys!

For all my loyal readers / followers, thanks for allowing me this personal post.

If you follow me on Face Book, you may know that I’m off injured. I had a small accident on the farm and thought I had broken my arm. The good news is that it’s not broken and healing well. I should be back to normal (my normal anyway) in a few days. Thanks for all the calls / messages etc. If you don’t follow me on Face Book, you need to! Click the link below and then “like” the page.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on November 18, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Atlanta, brotherhood, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, FDNY, Fire Critic, Fire Rescue International, firefighter pics, firefighters, FRI, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, NFFF

A busy Halloween in “The Noke”

2 comments

Yesterday was Halloween and I jinxed myself with my last post. I had hoped that like with Hurricane Sandy, we may be spared.

It wasn’t too bad (as bad as it could have been or as bad as others had it) but in our line of work, even one call is too many.

I’m riding “the car” as the acting Battalion for the North side and, that’s never good news for our Brothers and Sisters of C-Shift.

It was a typical tour until around 5pm…. then it started.

Our first notable call was for a possible house fire. I was first in with the Chief’s buggy to find smoke showing from the attic (sides Delta and Bravo) of a single story, wood framed, family dwelling. I gave the size up, marked it a working fire and established Command.

Engine #2 was close behind, pulled past and was assigned Division 1 (offensive attack).

I had been met by the occupants, stating that the fire was in the kitchen but extending through the walls / ceiling. I relayed that info to Captain Graham (E2) as his crew made the stretch and I made a 360 degree walk around. My initial size-up held.

Engine #5 was next in and would lay a line from E2 to our closest hydrant just a block away. Ladder #2 took the address and was assigned “search” and “ventilation” and set portable ladders to sides Delta and Bravo at the gable vents.

Next in was E3 who made the stretch into the attic for extension, while Medic 2 established RIC (Rapid Intervention Crew). Medic Unit 101 was assigned as the Medical Division and Medic #5 was attached to interior crews.

Our EMS supervisor, RS1; was assigned Safety and took position on side Charlie. Engine #1 was held in staging while the South Battalion assisted me. All members on scene did a great job of bringing the fire under control very quickly.

In our system, Command (and the members) are working towards three bench marks. “All Clear” on the searches, Primary and Secondary. “Fire Under Control” and “Loss Stopped”.

This fire was small but had gotten into the walls and made its way to the attic.

The boys did a great job of getting above it, cutting it off and extinguishing it.

Walls had to be pulled both interior and exterior as well as some ceiling. Everything was wet down, checked and double checked with the TIC (Thermal Imaging Camera).

Crews had 3 lines off (all 1 3/4″). One on the first floor, another to the attic and the third on the exterior where they had to pull siding etc near the point of origin / extension.

Again, quick work and a job well done by all members on scene!

After this job, the calls continued to roll in. Just as we sat down for dinner, we were toned out for a commercial alarm a nursing home. This is one of our “regular” runs, 99% of the time a false alarm or system malfunction.

Dispatch called radioed me while en route to advise that employees had called 911 to confirm smoke from one of the rooms….. GEESH!

I marked another “working fire” before the first unit even arrived. I’d rather have em on the road and not need them than need them and have to wait. Especially at a nursing home.

As it turned out, most of the “smoke” was from where employees had discharged several dry chemical extinguishers. The incident was easily handled by 2 Engines and a Ladder so the assignment was downgraded.

The evening continued with MVAs (Motor Vehicle Accidents), Automated Alarms and Medical runs. Thankfully, we had no major losses and all our members went home this morning. All considered it was a good night.

There were plenty of Brothers and Sisters all across the Country who were not as fortunate.

There was both good and bad news out of Detroit.

The good news is that they didn’t see an increase in fires this year. The bad news is that they still had 93 fires over the 3 days they consider Halloween.

More from AP news HERE

Rhett also has some raw video of fires in Detroit over on Fire Critic.com … CLICK HERE .

Follow this site on Face Book. Click HERE and “Like” the page!

There were also Brothers and Sisters up and down the Eastern seaboard still working in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Members in New York, New Jersey and many other States were still going door to door today looking for folks in need of assistance.

They found more than that. The death toll from Hurricane Sandy has now grown to over 80 across 9 states… 38 of those were in New York.

Gas mains are broken and burning, buildings are unstable and collapsing. Raw sewage is draining into water systems (the few remaining anyway). Electrical systems remain under water and cluttered with debris. Like I’ve said before, the situation my look better for the public, simply because the winds have died and the water receded; but for us the conditions are just as hazardous.

Fire stations were flooded and much of their equipment lost.

Members were working to save people they’ve never met while their own families and possessions were in danger.

Several members ended up fighting fires in their own homes and neighborhoods. Sandy was DEVASTATING to say the least.

These Brothers and Sisters represented our profession well. A true display of Tradition, Pride, Honor and Respect.

Now, they need our help … a show of BROTHERHOOD. How will these Departments rebuild? How long will it take? Where will the money come from? I want you to consider donating through the National Firefighters Endowment (NFE).

The NFE has set up a Relief Fund to provide immediate assistance. They have already received requests for an Engine and Ambulance and the NFE is close to filling the order.

If you can donate .. anything, use the link below. If your Department was affected by Sandy and needs immediate assistance for equipment replacement, use the link below. If you’re a company or business that would like to partner with us in our efforts, also use the link below.

NFE First Responder Relief Fund

Share and Post it to Face Book, Twitter and whatever Social Media you may use. Help get the word out and these Brothers and Sisters the equipment they need. ANYTHING you can do … ANYTHING you can send, we’ll take. If you’re not sure how to help or what you can do, call Shane Parkins, President of NFE @ (916) 572-1502.

TOGETHER, we can and will make a difference. BROTHERHOOD will prevail !

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on November 1, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, Dispatch & Communications, Emergency Communications, Fire Dispatch, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, funding-staffing, major-incidents, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Broad Channel VFD, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, Detroit Fire Department, Detroit firefighters, Devils Night, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, First Responder Relief Fund, house fire, Hurricane Sandy, Incident Command, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, National Firefighters Endowment First Responder Relief Fund, NFE, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Statter 911, Willie Wines Jr

Trick or Treat?

1 comment

Hummmmm…… decisions, decisions… I’m kinda thinking the “trick” may not be so bad.. LOL

Everyone thinks I’ve been a little hard on the Medics here lately so, this picture is just for them. You’re welcome.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from ironfiremen.com.

I say that with some hesitation because there are many on (and near) the East Coast who I’m sure are not in the celebrating mood.

Thanks to hurricane Sandy, many are living in Emergency Shelters. An unknown, but high; loss of houses and businesses. Millions without power. A death toll of at least 48 including Lt. Russ Neary of Easton, Connecticut’s Line Of Duty Death (Details found by clicking HERE) .

I put some links, including video; in my previous post. Click the title below…

Read “Fortunately Spared” by clicking HERE

If you’re out celebrating Halloween tonight, please take a moment to remember those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Better yet, send more than a thought their way … DONATE directly to Hurricane Sandy Relief through The National Firefighters Endowment by clicking the link below…

NFE First Responder Relief Fund

So it’s Halloween and other than the Hurricane, my thoughts turn to the Detroit Fire Department. There, tonight is known as “Devils Night” due to the large number of fires they face.

Many plans are put into place in efforts to curb the mischief but their resources are still overwhelmed. Last year, they seen a 44% reduction in fires (from 169 to 94). Fire Engineering has more HERE . Let’s hope the trend continues. More on Detroit Firefighters (including a link to live dispatch) HERE .

My thoughts then turn to here because I’m riding as the Acting Battalion for the North Side this cycle.

Typically, that’s not good news for the Brothers and Sisters of C-shift.

Like I stated in my previous post, we were fortunate to have only faced high winds and cold temperatures from Hurricane Sandy. I hope my luck holds out for tonight as well. We’ll see.

To all the Chauffeurs pulling a tour tonight, keep an extra eye out for all those “trick or treaters” out there.

My Halloween actually started a little early. I worked an extra shift and covered for the Fire Critic (Lt Rhett Fleitz) this past Saturday.

The Company was assigned 2 Pub-Ed events that day, the second of which was a “Trunk or Treat” event at a nearby school.

With an estimated 2,700 kids, the place was PACKED and a huge success.

We seen some GREAT costumes, both home made and purchased. I included this one because of the little guy in the Hulk Costume (Station #3 uses the Hulk as their mascot)

I had several favorites in the crowd.

This little fella was Super Mario.

I’m not sure if he was just smiling that big or if he had his mustache on upside down.

Either way, the little guy looked good. He LOVES fire trucks and was just as fascinated with my stache …lol

Hopefully, the Buckaroo will get by the Station tonight (and more hopeful that I’ll be here) so I can see him in his costume. I’ll get some pictures up if he does.

I’d also love to see some pics of your “Trick or Treaters”.

Does your station even have Trick or Treaters stop by?

Do you carve a pumpkin (jack-o-lantern) for your station?

Send me some pics and I’ll run em here on Ironfiremen.com. I will also create a photo album on Face Book to share them (or I’ll trick Rhett into doing it over at FireCritic.com)

Like with so many of the “little” things we do, I think this is a GREAT way to show PRIDE and HONOR in your Department, Company and the JOB. It’s also a great way to interact with your community / customers.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book HERE (click “Like”)

Face Book is making it more difficult these days so in addition, hold your cursor over the “message” tab (upper right of the page). When the drop down box appears, click “add to interest” and you should start getting IronFiremen.com feeds.

I’ll try to get another post up Halloween night but it will all depend on how busy we stay. Again I’ll ask you to keep those affected by Hurricane Sandy in your thoughts and prayers. If able, use the link in this post to donate directly to the relief efforts through The National Firefighters Endowment First Responder Relief Fund.

Also keep the First Responders in your thoughts as they continue with recovery efforts. This time is often as hazardous as the initial event.

Lastly, show some firehouse PRIDE tonight. Carve a pumpkin. Open the house doors and pass out some candy. Make a kid smile … they’ll remember you for it!

Stay SAFE and in House!

captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on October 31, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, major-incidents, news, special-operations, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2012 LODD, American Red Cross, brotherhood, Buckaroo, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, Detroit Fire Department, Devils Night, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Halloween, house fire, Hurricane Sandy, LODD, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Lt. Russ Neary, National Firefighters Endowment, National Firefighters Endowment First Responder Relief Fund, NFE, Relief Funds, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Statter 911, Trunk or Treat, Willie Wines Jr

Fortunately spared

2 comments

Hurricane Sandy didn’t hit S.W. Virginia as hard as expected. We were fortunate. Not all of the East coast was.

I would not have bet on her missing us. Like the hurricane, everything was in place for “the perfect storm”. You see, I’m riding as the acting Battalion for the North Side this cycle. The last time I rode was back on June 29th when a “Derecho” blew through town.

At the time, I didn’t even know what a “Derecho” was. Now, I’ll never forget. We were right smack in the middle of it …. a living HELL. Read my post about that night by clicking the title below.

A Vision of Calm in the midst of Hell

I say we were fortunate yesterday because as bad as I thought we had it back in June, it was NOTHING compared to what our Brothers and Sisters on the North Eastern Coast (and inland) faced last night.

Sandy made landfall in New Jersey but caused havoc from South Carolina to Maine. She was devastating to say the least. Reports are of at least 48 dead (including a LODD) and millions without power. In New York City, entire blocks burned. Houses were washed away in New Jersey, businesses destroyed and more, much more and worse.

The damages and rebuilding costs are sure to be overwhelming. The loss of life, 10 fold.

Lt. Russ Neary of Easton, Connecticut has been identified as the Firefighter who died in the Line Of Duty. More details in the links below …

Easton, Connecticut LODD Lt. Russ Neary (FireCritic)

You can also find more coverage of Hurricane Sandy and her after math in the links below …….

Raw Video of FDNY in action (Dave Statter)

Hurricane Sandy coverage from The Fire Critic

Fox News.com

For many of the millions in the path of (and affected by) hurricane Sandy, those hours she devoured the East Coast may have very well been the worst of their life.

On the other hand, I feel as if it may have been “our finest hour” for first responders (I say that with all due respect to the affected …. allow me to explain).

You see, those Firefighters, Police Officers, Medics, National Guard, Coast Guard members etc. pulling a tour also lived in Sandy’s path. They knew all to well that their personal lives / property would be affected yet they “stood their post”. It’s what we do !

They stood their post and performed BEAUTIFULLY!

I’ve read reports of members swimming to burning building to make searches / rescues.

Fire trucks loaded onto tractor trailers to better handle the high and rising water in the streets.

Rigs drafting flood water to knock down heavily involved buildings.

Swift Water teams making countless rescues.

Much like those members guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the actions of our Brothers and Sisters in response to hurricane Sandy scream of PRIDE and HONOR.

I should also mention the dispatchers (telecommunicators) on duty during the storm. WOW ! There’s no way we could do what we do without them.

I tried to listen to FDNY’s live dispatch between our runs and they continue to amaze me with their proficiency.

If you’ve never listened in, you should. You’ll be shocked. Take a listen and see what I mean, thanks to our Brothers over at The Bravest.com

There were several individuals (on the larger scale) who stood out in my mind as well.

Folks like Mike Brooks of HLN, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, NYC Mayor Bloomburg and a few more.

I know Mike Brooks personally and he had one hell of a segment on HLN yesterday. I haven’t been able to find it yet so I’ll wait until tomorrow to tell ya why these folks stand out in my mind.

I’ll also give a tip of the hat to my administration. Although we weren’t hit as hard as most (or as expected), we were prepared.

Unlike when the Derecho hit, we were not caught off guard. We were kept informed, given up to date projections / information and provided the necessary resources.

Fortunately, we only faced high winds and cold temps. Apparently the clean up from June’s Derecho was effective because we didn’t see near the number of downed power lines.

The Brothers from Stations #6, #11 and #1 made quick work of a residential fire over in South East. Other than that, we were spared any major incidents.

Just a quick post to say WELL DONE to everyone who pulled a tour during hurricane Sandy. STRONG WORK ! As power is restored and the water recedes, our duties will be just as hazardous. Situational and Positional Awareness !

Stay SAFE and in House … I’ll check back in tomorrow night.

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on October 30, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, Dispatch & Communications, Emergency Communications, Fire Dispatch, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, major-incidents, mass-casualty-incident, news, rescues, special-operations, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: 2012 LODD, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, derecho, FDNY, Fire Critic, fire dispatch, fire video, firefighter pics, firefighters, FOX News, house fire, Hurricane Sandy, IAFF, live dispatch, LODD, LODD Lt. Russ Neary, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Lt. Russ Neary, Mike Brooks, perfect storm, Roanoke Fire/EMS, severe weather, Statter 911, The Bravest.com, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Working fire

Is simply “Remembering” enough?

3 comments

Face Book is loaded with the messages today. “Never Forget” … “I remember” … “Where were you” etc. Every post I see has something to do with the events that took place 11 years ago today.

Although these statements have merit, I’m not sure they carry the necessary weight.

“Never forget” …. HOW COULD YOU? How could any adult who was alive that day forget what happened? How COULD you forget the images? People jumping, citizens pouring out while firefighters rushed in. The impact of that 2nd plane. The towers crumbling like piles of ash.

“I remember” … I HOPE SO! Citizen or public servant, I hope you remember the sacrifices made. I hope you remember how vulnerable we were and still are as a nation and who stepped up to the “front lines” as we were under attack. I hope you remember what they did to us that day …. what they took from us…. and those they murdered.

“Where were you?” … GLUED TO THE TV … that’s where you were unless you were on scene or responding in to either of the 3 sites. Where ever you were, hopefully; your mind, thoughts and spirits were in Pa, Washington DC and NYC. I know mine were. I’ll tell ya where you were …. In the same place we all were. In a state of disbelief and confusion. Scared, mad and searching for answers. I know EXACTLY where you were because like so many others, I was standing there beside you!

I’m not sure how to express or say what I’m feeling tonight. I’ve been thinking about it all day. I don’t want the words to become “catch phrases”. Something “cool” to say but without meaning or purpose. “Never Forget” should be way more than a slogan on a tee shirt. Saying it is NOT enough. Remembering is not either. Not just once a year when September 11th rolls around.

I met Lee Ielpi almost a year ago now, back in October of 2011. He is the strongest man I’ve ever met. He’s retired from FDNY’s elite Rescue 2 in Brooklyn. His youngest son (Brendan) is on the job today and currently assigned to that same company. His eldest son, Jonathan; was murdered in the attacks of 9/11. Jonathan was also on the job and assigned to Squad 288 in Queens. They lost 19 members that day … more than any other unit in the FDNY.

Lee now runs the 9/11 Tribute Center. “9/11 Tribute Center offers visitors to the World Trade Center site a place where they can connect with people from the September 11th community. Through walking tours, exhibits and programs, the 9/11 Tribute Center offers “Person to Person History,” linking visitors who want to understand and appreciate these historic events with those who experienced them”.

Lee gave Zach Green and I a personal tour of the center. I posted about it HERE . In that post, speaking of Lee and ground zero; I said “he hasn’t left yet”. I feel the same way about me and the Center. A part of me remains there.

You see, one of the exhibits is a set of turn out gear. Not just any gear mind you … Jonathan Ielpi’s gear. It’s like he’s standing right there and Lee has to walk by it every day. What do you think “never forget” means to this man? His son’s turnout coat and helmet! He walks by it everyday to share the story with us. To educate us and the generations to come.

THAT Brothers and Sisters is the meaning of NEVER FORGETTING. I guarantee you that Lee Ielpi REMEMBERS and he knows EXACTLY where he was not just that day but for months following … he was on that pile searching for his son!

Not as Lee does, but I too remember EVERY DAY. I have mentioned (and shown you) here on the site how I have photos of the fallen hanging near my bed. I see their faces every morning as I wake up.

I carry photos from our 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs in my turnout gear. They are part of my daily / morning check and remind me of the sacrifices made by others as well as of the one I may one day be called to make.

I’ve made the climbs. I even climbed in the shadows of the new Freedom Tower with Rhett and the founding members of the Stair Climb Committee.

I assist the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation anyway I can.

I support and work on behalf of the National Firefighters Endowment.

I leave my family to travel and deliver motivation speeches. I teach classes, promote life saving technology and try to do my part in making a positive impact on the fire service.

It’s more than a t-shirt, helmet sticker or catchy slogan for me. I hope I don’t need any of that crap. I’d rather you know that I remember EVERYDAY and would hope you can tell that by my actions and not by the slogan on some shirt or hat that I’m wearing.

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on September 12, 2012 • Filed under: command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2001, 9/11, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Ladder 49, Lee Ielpi, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, never forget, NFE, NFFF, Rescue 2, September 11, Squad 288, The 9/11 Tribute Center, where were you, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, World Trade Center

Getting high and rocking Fire Rescue International (FRI) 2012

3 comments

“High” as in a mile high … as in Colorado high …as in Rocky Mountain high.

Rhett and I just returned from FRI 2012 ( Fire- Rescue International) in Denver, Colorado and WE ROCKED IT!

You should have heard Rhett banging out John Denver tunes on the street pianos of downtown Denver…. LOL

It was another GREAT show and experience for us. We have a good time anywhere we go but this trip was AWESOME! If you didn’t make it, start planning now to join us in 2013 back in Chicago.

Once again, we traveled as Team MN8-Fox Fire along with the Prez Zach Green and the lovely Kelly. This trip, we also had Chief Robert R. Rielage (Wyoming, Ohio Fire Department) Bryant Davis (Captain, Wyoming Ohio Fire Department) and Paul Dykena (firefighter Kirtland Air Force Base) along for the ride.

We made an awesome team!

Once again, the MN8-FoxFire booth was the center of attention.

I truly believe that we currently have the best product on the market when it comes to firefighter accountability. In my demo/ product presentation, I talk about visibility, accountability and orientation ….. this product offers all 3!

If you’re not using our product, you should be. Zach is honoring the “show price” for the next few days so be sure to check us out asap and start “Illuminating” your Department!

Buy MN8-FoxFire HERE

When we got into Denver, Rhett and I had the day to our selves.

We had decided that there was no way that we could be “that close” to Colorado Springs and the IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial without stopping in ….

we rented a car and struck out!

It was an AWESOME ride with unbelievable views!

I had been to the Memorial 20 some years ago as a Rookie Firefighter. I traveled out with good friend and Brother Randy Smith (now 1st Lt of Ladder #1C).

The trip and the names on that wall made an impression on me … one I’ve never forgotten.

Two of the names on that wall came from my Department and Local (IAFF Local 1132)…. I remember their deaths.

Robert G. Cassell and Harvey H. Helm were killed by a drunk driver on November 1, 1985. We’ve since had 2 “medical” LODD’s while no others have been lost while on scene of an incident.

In the picture to the left, I’m standing in front of the 1985 section of “The Wall”…. obviously, we took the time to find Helm and Cassell.

It was a somber moment … humbling.

We were there alone and never spoke a word …. quiet. Each knowing what the other was feeling / thinking, we said a silent prayer for all of the names before us. I hope they never add another.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book Click HERE

So, the following day was all work at our FRI Booth.

Like I said above, we were busy … VERY BUSY.

The great thing about being so busy is that we get to meet so many great folks …. people from all across the Country and even some from others.

For us, that’s a big part of the shows … networking … meeting our Brothers and Sisters and hearing their stories.

We get a small chance for that while on the floor but the honest answer is that we’re really too busy to talk as much as we’d like. The real networking comes in the evenings … after the show .. out on the town.

That’s when we REALLY turn it up a notch!

At places like The Tilted Kilt !

This is when we really shine …. trading coins, talking shop and posing for photos.

If you don’t have one of our Challenge Coins or patches yet, don’t panic. They are available online and you can have your custom patch or coin made as well. If you haven;t done so yet, visit NM Coin LLC for for more info and to get your Ironfiremen / FireCritic Challenge Coin (I’m heads …lol)

VISIT NM Coin LLC

Of course, you’ll notice that once again we rocked our Kilts ( Alt Kilt.com ) and helmets with custom Box Alarm Leather Fronts!

It’s hard not to notice us and everybody seems to love the “look” … wait until you see what we are bringing out next ..lol

Want us in your gear? Wearing or using YOUR product? Check us out at ….

Firefighter Product Review

We also got to meet and hang with some big names and faces while in Denver.

That’s the other thing about these shows …. you just never know who you’re going to meet or bump into.

You guys know Michael Lombardi right?

Michael Lombardi as in the guy who plays the character ”Mike Silletti” in the TV show “Rescue Me“.

Lombardi was not only on the floor of FRI, his band; Blood Moon Therapy, played at the Hard Rock while we were there.

Rhett and I had the chance to see and meet with him at both places …. he’s actually a pretty cool guy. He loved the helmets, kilts and most of all .. “the stache”.

Find Michael Lombardi on Face Book HERE

We also got to see and hang out with the likes of Brian Brush as well as the guys from The Remembrance Rescue Project and the Terry Farrell Fund.

All are a great bunch of guys …. BROTHERS

There is a lot of talk, debate, discussion, even scuttlebutt about these two groups going around as of late but for NOW … Rhett and I have been giving the “benefit of the doubt ”.

I will tell ya that we are involved. Asking questions, giving advise etc. I hope it’s taken to heart …. otherwise, one of the groups may not receive our support. As for now, what’s important (and what I wanted to share) is that we were all together … in one place …. drinking beers and sharing the Brotherhood.

Rhett gave his take on the issues in a previous post found HERE .

Read posts from “The Secret List” HERE and HERE

We’ve since learned more details and that’s why / how we became involved. My “take” is simple ….. those Rescue Trucks HAVE TO SURVIVE …. they actually already have … they made it through the collapses of the World Trade Centers on September 11, 2001.

They are a mobile “Tribute” to the 343. A tool. A “tool” to educate the next generations as to the events of that fateful day. The day our Brothers and Sisters (such as Terry Farrell) were murdered.

I stood there in AWE as I looked at Rescue 4 ( Queens). I’ve rode along in that very rig. I couldnt help but think of the hands that have been on the door latches. I thought about the men who took their last ride in that very rig … and there it was … right in front of me. I was once again humbled and honored. Rhett and I can’t wait to get the chance to show this truck and tell it’s story to our children … ours and theirs. I hope the “issues” are soon resolved ..we’ll see.

So like I’ve been saying … it was a great trip and the best part is always the people we get to meet.

For all of you that we did get the honor of meeting, if we haven’t done so already; tag yourself in the photos. On the other hand, if you have pics of us, tag us as well .

Our next road trip is planned for this upcoming weekend.

We will be heading down to Surry County, North Carolina to deliver “bail out kits” awarded by the National Firefighters Endowment. See how they earned the kits by clicking HERE.

If you’re not familiar with the NFE, you should be … especially if your Department needs money… yea … I said MONEY.

How about your choice of a new Ford or Chevy truck? How about a $5,000 Equipment Grant? They’re easier to get than you may think. If you didn’t hit the link above, use the one below to find out how to apply. Don’t forget to join the “Officer’s Club” while you’re there …

Find the National Firefighters Endowment here

After our stop in Surry County, we’ll be headed to Raleigh for a F.O.O.L.S Bash …. more on that later this week. Until then, I’ll leave ys with a few more pics from Denver … enjoy

Rhett has a complete photo album of our trip over on his Face Book page… be sure to check it out

FireCritic’s FRI 2012 photo Album on FB

As always, thanks for following along. I still have a little bit of “jet lag” and tons of work to catch up on around the farm …. it’s going to be a long ~~day~~ week.

That said, I’m back on duty Thursday and will check back in with another post as soon as I can. Until I do, stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on August 7, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Alt Kilt, Box Alarm Leather, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Challenge coins, Dave Statter, FDNY, FDNY Rescue 4, Fire Critic, Fire Rescue International, firefighter pics, firefighters, Fools Bash, FRI 2012, IAFF, IAFF Fallen Firefighters Memorial, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 FoxFire Helmet Bands, MN8 products, National Firefighters Endowment, NFE, NM Coin LLC, Phenix Helmets, Remembrance Rescue Project, Terry Farrell Fund, Tilted Kilt, Zach Green

The difference a year makes … Firehouse Expo 2012

1 comment

Rhett and I are safely home from Firehouse Expo 2012 …. it was another GREAT trip!

I don’t know how it continues to happen or if and when it will ever “level off” but, so far; every trip we make ends up being better than the last … both personally and professionally.
Once again, we were traveling with Zach Green and the MN8-FoxFire team.

Zach, the owner and President of the company; said something to me the other day that caught me off guard. He reminded me that this trip would be our 1 year Anniversary. I had never thought of it that way. Actually, I almost didn’t believe it. It seems like we’ve been together much longer than that.

Turns out, Zach was right; it’s only been a year. Back at FDIC 2011, Zach was stalking me and Rhett for a “product review” of MN8-FoxFire. I’m glad he found us! Fast forward to Firehouse Expo 2011 and Zach found himself in a bind. He needed some help in the booth and I just so happened to be there and available.

I went to work in the booth the next day and we haven’t slowed down since! It’s been an amazing journey.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book click HERE

Our conversation and the success of this trip has got me thinking of how far we’ve come over the last year … me / Rhett and MN8-FoxFire.

2011 was my first time ever to Firehouse Expo ( Read my review HERE ). It was also the place where Rhett and I would make our 1st 911 Memorial Stair Climb (see that post HERE ). We’ve since completed 5 climbs and have even made one in the shadows of the new Freedom Tower with founding members of the Stair Climb committee (click HERE for that post! )

News coverage of this year’s 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb in Baltimore by clicking HERE .

Last year, the MN8-FoxFire booth was busy … this year, it was PACKED! Once again, the MN8-FoxFire booth was the focus of attention on the exhibit floor.

It’s apparent that “the word” is getting out about MN8-FoxFire and their amazing products. We sold more in day #1 of Expo 2012 than we did in all 3 days of the 2011 show.

Learn how to join Team MN8-FoxFire by clicking “HERE” .

Of course, Rhett and I draw plenty of attention by ourselves. It’s hard not to when we’re walking around in kilts, structural boots and leather helmets.

We stand out in the crowd…. and WE WANT TO. It’s who we are and what we do. For us, it’s a great marketing / networking tool. Folks stop us in the isles (and out in the street for that matter) just to talk and take photos. They invite us into their booths or stop us to question our purpose.

It’s that image, the exposure or “popularity” (if you will) that’s helped us create a new site / venture over this past year as well ….

Click HERE to check out Firefighter Product Review

It’s a great site (even if it is ours). Not only do we give “our” review of the products up for review, we also give the “user” or readers the chance to “score” or rate the product themselves.

Last year, we blended into the crowd. Nobody noticed what we had on or who we were working for. Nobody gave us a 2nd look. This year … totally opposite.

Take our Custom Fronts (helmet shields) for example. EVERYBODY wanted to know where we got em. It was a GREAT opportunity to tell them about Andrew and Mary Arnold from over at Box Alarm Leather LLC (see their review HERE ).

Our Custom Kilts were also a HUGE hit and point of conversation. When we needed a kilt and wanted it “our” way … there was only one company out there that was willing to work with us … ALT Kilt . We love telling the story of how all the bigger companies turned us down yet ALT Kilt was willing to go the extra mile.

This year, companies are approaching us for Product Reviews. We’ve got several in the “Que” awaiting publishing and received just as many more last week at Expo. Be sure to hit the link above to follow and look for future reviews for items such as Dragon Fire Gloves , ESS Eye Protection, Black Helmet’s German flavored design (Kampf gegen Feuer), the 2013 Firehouse Dolls Calendar and much, much more.

Click HERE to have us review your product

Here’s another example of the difference a year can make. In 2011, one of my fans / followers; Daniel Lawson came to the booth. For whatever reason, Daniel wanted to meet me, more importantly; he wanted me to meet his new born son … talk about humbling! He explained how he loved reading Ironfiremen.com and following along with the “Buckaroo’s” growth / adventures when he’s included in a post.

This year, Daniel and his son returned to the booth for a follow up photo/visit … man has that little fella grown! I was also excited to learn that Daniel and his wife are expecting their 2nd child …CONGRATULATIONS! I guess my camera lens will have to grow along with his family lol.

In the end, THAT’S what it’s all about … making new friendships …lasting friendships …. sharing and promoting BROTHERHOOD… it’s what keeps us going! Thanks for stopping by Daniel … looking forward to next year’s photo.

The best example of “the difference a year can make” that we found while at Firehouse Expo 2012 came out of New York City. You see, FDNY’s Rescue 2 had a booth set up. That in itself is not a big deal. What was a big deal was who was in the booth …. Rescue 2′s Firefighter Robert Weidmann!

You may remember Firefighter Weidmann’s name from a fire in Brooklyn, NY back on December 19, 2011. That blaze injured 5 members of the FDNY (two out of Rescue 2 Weidmann and Gersbeck). Weidmann was the most seriously injured of the five. He received burns over 40% of his body, including his face, head and hands. His escape was captured on video! The arrow in the picture left is believed to be Weidmann making his way to the window.

Read my original post on that fire HERE

He suffered and fought through months of grueling rehab and recovery. In true Firefighter fashion, he showed the same heart and determination after the fire as he did while engulfed in flame. HE SURVIVED!

He survived and he made it to Firehouse Expo where Rhett, Zach and I had the HONOR of shaking his hand!

It was a HUGE honor for us and the highlight of my trip! Brother Weidmann is a TRUE firefighter … an IRONFIREMAN. Even in the middle of that fire, he was teaching the rest of us valuable lessons. He had on his gear … ALL OF IT and, he was wearing it correctly. He was physically fit and in the shape / condition to make that escape. He had the situational and positional awareness to find his way out. Captain Flaherty said he fought with the strength of 10 men during his recovery and on Friday, July 20th he was standing in Baltimore, Md…. YOU CAN’T TEACH HEART!

Back in February, Rhett, Zach and I solicited your help in raising money for Brother Weidmann and Rescue 2′s “MayDay Fund”. The fund is designed to help support injured members and their families. Your support was overwhelming and the 3 of us (Rhett, Zach and I) then had the honor of hand delivering the check in your name. READ THAT POST HERE .

During our visit in Baltimore, Brother Weidmann asked us to pass along his heart felt appreciation for all the support he, his family and the members of Rescue 2 received. You’re efforts were NOT in vane! As soon as he returns to duty, Rhett, Zach and I will head back to Brooklyn for a follow up visit and a full report on his recovery…. the difference a year makes!

Rhett has made some “strides” over the past year as well ….not in the same manner as Brother Weidmann but, he too; is showing some heart.

Last year, I was the only one in the group who would ride the mechanical bull at PBR Baltimore. This year, “Fire Boy” decided he’d give it a try.

I didn’t have the heart to tell him that you don’t ride bulls while wearing a kilt. I also failed to mention riding while wearing your wife’s socks may not be the best idea either.

Although I don’t believe in protective head wear for professional bull riders, I did think it was kind of cool that Rhett wore his leather helmet while riding. Of course I still don’t think he topped my ride. I didn’t do it in a kilt nor did I wear my leather. What I did do was ride WITH a PBR girl!! See that post and watch the VIDEO HERE !

It seems he’s also softened up his feelings for his true internet father, Dave Statter.

Last year at Expo, it seemed as if they couldn’t get along.

Bickering and arguing over who the TRUE ”King of Blogs” is.

They even argued about the true identity of the Fire Critic and if he actually even existed at all.

Once again, I had to step in and, apparently; my tactics worked ….Just look at em now…. arm in arm. Embracing in public. You should have seen em holding hands and skipping up to the PBR bar …LMAO

In the end, Firehouse Expo 2012 was a HUGE success for us and …. we had a BLAST! The best part was meeting so many friends … old and new. Thanks to everyone who dropped by the booth for a FoxFire demo or to just say hello. Thanks as well to the Northern Va FOOLS as associate sponsors for hosting the Brotherhood Bash … it lived up to it’s name despite the rain!

If you’ve never attended Firehouse Expo, make your plans for 2013 NOW … Rhett and I will be there and I CAN’T WAIT! Check out what Rhett and Zach had to say about the trip and then I’ll leave ya with a few more pics from our Baltimore adventures …

Click HERE for The Fire Critic’s Firehouse Expo “wrap up”

Read Zach’s post on the trip by clicking HERE

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 24, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: ALT Kilts, Baltimore Md, Bedford VFD, Box Alarm Leather LLC, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chris Naum, Dave Statter, FDNY, FDNY Rescue 2, Fire Critic, Firecritic, firefighter pics, Firefighter Product Reviews, Firefighter Robert Weidmann, firefighters, Firehouse Expo, FireProductReview.com, FOOLS, Fools Bash, house fire, Ironfiremen, leather helmets, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Mechanical bulls, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 products, NFFF, Northern Va Fools, PBR, PBR Baltimore, PBR Girls, PGFD, Statter 911, Zach Green

Where were YOU when the world stopped turning

No comments

I’ve got a lot of catching up to do and I’m not going to get it done in tonight’s post…. I hope this one will be short and sweet and I’ll get more up tomorrow.

The title of this one has a few meanings to it. First off, I went to an Alan Jackson concert this past Friday night. IT WAS AWESOME!

I’m not sure who to thank … my Department, our Civic Center, the concert promoters or Alan Jackson himself because our tickets were free. Somehow or another, both the Fire and Police Departments received several free tickets to disperse to their members.

Our Department simply paged out that they had em and to call if you wanted a set. I made the call without thinking. Had I have thought about it, I most likely wouldn’t have called. It’s the beginning of hay season and a very busy time on the farm. I’m not a fan of big crowds or loud music …. I don’t “get out” and it’s most often by choice.

After I got the tickets, I began regretting it. Too much going on, having to end my day early … take a bath etc. In my mind, the only “plus side” to going was that my wife (Donna) would get a much needed and deserved night out.

When we walked inside the civic center, I was shocked … it wasn’t a good turnout for the show. I figured Alan Jackson would see all the empty seats, play a few tunes and haul butt. HE DIDN’T.

We had GREAT seats and the stage had a large TV screen on both sides. The camera crews did a fantastic job of getting the “right” shots and provided plenty of close ups of Alan. It was evident in his facial expressions that he was playing for / from his passion for his job (it was obviously not because of a “packed house”) He played as if he was standing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry or Madison Square Gardens. The music was not too loud or over bearing nor was there an excess of lights, explosions etc…. it was Alan Jackson singing.

I know most of his songs but have never seen him perform live. I was hoping he would play “Where were you when the world stopped turning” and he did. I stood through the entire song. Donna kept pulling at my shirt, wanting me to sit but I would have none of it.

I stood to honor and thank him for honoring us.

He even had the well know picture of the firefighters raising the flag at Ground Zero on the screen as he sang.

If you even have the chance to see an Alan Jackson concert … GO!

I’ll throw in the video for anyone who has never heard the song ( and I doubt there’s anyone who hasn’t ) but there’s NOTHING like hearing it live and in person ….

Ok, the 2nd meaning of the title for this posts is due to where I am tonight and more than that … WHO I’m with. Rhett and I are on yet another “road trip” but, this time; Dave Statter is with us (or we’re with him…lol).

Yep … Rhett and Dave are traveling together and I’m along to chaperon.

Apparently, I’m good at what I do because it’s been nothing but a “love fest” thus far … it’s almost sickening…LOL

We are in Newark, Ohio where we (Rhett and Dave ) have teamed up to present on social media in/for the Fire Service.

We are at the Ohio Fire Chief’s Association’s Leadership Seminar and these folks are in for a real treat!

I’ll update ya more in tomorrow’s post on how we’re getting along. The two “stars” of the show are currently down in the hot tub working out their pre-show jitters so I should have plenty to report.

For a little local “catch up”, the Brothers and Sisters from our South Side caught a little work last day ( Sunday ) and a citizen caught it on video. Rhett has the complete set of all 3 videos over on Va Fire News HERE . I’ll include “part 1″ which includes the knock down …

I’ll check back tomorrow…. until then, stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 22, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: 9/11, Alan Jackson, apartment fire, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, fire video, firefighter pics, firefighters, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, Social Media, Social Media in the Fire Service, Statter 911, video, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire

Better late than never!

2 comments

Because my puter has been down … I missed two very important days last week. Two days of celebration. One marking the death of a terrorist, the other marking the birth of a Fire Service Media Icon.

First, we reached the 1 year anniversary of the Death of Osama Bin Laden!

Like the headline from the New York Daily News said… I hope he rots in hell!

SPECIAL THANKS to Seal Team 6 for a job well done. I only wish that his death could have been much slower and painful. The thousands that he murdered and the many more he left behind suffered. He should have too.

I could and would have killed him with a cotton ball. As long as that would have taken, it still may have been too quick. The good thing for him is that I’ll never get that chance. I do take comfort in knowing that he seen his killer. I’m sure he seen the seal coming towards him and knew he was American. I can only hope that he got the shot off before Bin Laden closed his coward eyes. I smile thinking that the last thing this ~~POS~~ piece of shit seen was the muzzle flash of an American weapon. I hope his mind was consumed with fear and that the impact was painful.

I celebrate his death and the victory of a battle. I say “battle” because the war is far from over. There is a lot of work left to do yet. I say kill em all … including those awaiting trial still today. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and his Al Qaeda cohorts have been making a mockery of Democracy all week. They have been smiling, reading books, ignoring questions and even gave a “thumbs up” during their hearing.

9/11 trial: Al Qaeda’s court tactics anger families of victims

They never should have made it to trial in the first place and I hope that they too ROT IN HELL. Is it personal for me … YES. I knew several of the men they murdered and I will not forget the sacrifice they made.

One of the ways I remember and honor those lost is by participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs. Rhett and I have posted about our climbs many times. We’ve completed 5. If you haven’t participated in a climb yet …YOU SHOULD.

Can’t climb? No problem. Register and another Brother or Sister will carry the name and memory of one of our fallen for you. Register, show up and support those who are climbing…. you WILL make a difference.

Learn more and find a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb near you

Ok .. enough with that rant for now … let me move on to the 2nd day of celebration I missed . A BIRTHDAY !!! Not just any Birthday either … Statter911.com turned 5 years old this week! ( that’s just 1 year older than the Buckaroo …and Statter calls Rhett “young”…LOL)

CONGRATULATIONS Dave! Congratulations and WELL DONE!

Statter’s 5 yr post HERE

Raise a glass Brothers and Sisters … he’s earned it.

Trust me … keeping these sites up and going is not an easy task and Dave Statter sets the standard.

I say that with all due respect and seriousness. For Dave to have been able to keep it up this long is unbelievable ( just ask Hilary …LMAO) All kidding aside, 5 years at the top is one hell of an achievement.

Despite what Rhett says, Dave Statter IS the King of Blogs!

King of blogs
by: Capt

Dave, Rhett and I have had a BLAST over the last few years and I’m honored to call him a friend.

We always give each other (the three of us) a hard time on our sites and it’s all in “good fun”. You’d be shocked at how many people ask me if the “feud” is actually real or not…LMAO

OF COURSE IT IS !!!! Rhett and Dave HATE each other… I’m the one caught in the middle!

We’ve been fortunate enough to travel all over the Country together and Dave has impacted members (good and bad) from coast to coast through his writings / reporting.

That said, his greatest impact on me has been a little closer to home.

Forget the trips. The dinners, ball games etc. Dave (and his family) have opened their home to me. To me, Rhett, my step mother and Dad actually. When Dave learned that we (Rhett, Dad and I) were going to climb in the Greenbelt 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on the 10 yr Anniversary of the attacks, he wouldn’t hear of us staying in a hotel….WOULDN’T HEAR IT!

He opened his home and the 4 of us stayed at the 5 star “Hotel Statter”. It was a very generous offer and a true act of Brotherhood.

Read my post from that trip HERE

Dave has also impacted me through his work with the NFFF (National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation) . He is the reason I attended my first Memorial Weekend back in 2010 and the reason I wont miss another.

Read those posts HERE HERE and HERE

Become involved with the NFFF and attend the Memorial Weekend … it WILL change you!

So, congratulations on 5 years once again Dave!

Thanks for the guidance, support and friendship.

Most of all, thanks for the child support checks (you’re late for last months payment by the way) over the years. Im sorry about the “deadbeat dad” lawsuit but, at the time; I felt like my hands were tied.

Hello to Hillary and Sam … keep up the GREAT work … see ya in Ohio!

The rest of ya … stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 7, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11, 9/11 attacks, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, Al Qaeda, brotherhood, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, daily news, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, Fire Service Blogs, firefighter pics, firefighters, funny firehouse videos, Ironfiremen, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, Navy Seals, NFFF, NFFF Memorial Weekend, NYC, Osama bin Laden, Seal Team 6, Statter 911, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, xtranormal videos

A sick mind wanders…

1 comment

I’m still in bed but well on the road to recovery. Hopefully, tomorrow; I’ll be close to 90% and able to move around some. Friday, I should be back on the job. Thanks again for all the e-mails, texts etc with “get well” wishes … I told ya all that I was tougher than I look….LOL.

So anyway, when I woke up this morning; my mind wasn’t on being ill or all the things I should be catching up on around the house / farm. My mind was somewhere else … in a stairwell … in multiple stairwells actually.

I have several of the names and faces of the 343 fallen hanging on my dresser mirror by my bed. These are some of the badges I’ve carried during my 5 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs. I see them EVERY morning that I wake up at home.

Every morning I see these faces, my thoughts go back to that day and the great acts that these men carried out.

I think about the strength and courage it must have taken to pick up their tools and start up those stairs. The Pride and Honor these men carried inspires me daily.

I have reminders everywhere … I still carry the tags from my first climb in my first out gear…..I WILL NOT FORGET.

So, my mind was in those NYC stairwells. It quickly turned to a stairwell in Washington DC.

You see, there were many Brothers and Sisters who took to the stairwells this morning at 08:30 inside the Washington Hilton. They were participating in yet another 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb during the 24th Annual National and Emergency Services Dinner and Seminars Program. The event is co-sponsored by the Congressional Fire Services Institute and The National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation.

If you don’t know already, these events are held throughout the year, all across the Country.

If you haven’t participated in one … YOU SHOULD.

Learn more about 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs

You can find a climb near you or learn how to organize your own by using the link above. If you can’t climb .. REGISTER. Someone will carry a name / picture on your behalf .

The money is much needed and put to good use. Rhett and I heard it for ourselves directly from FDNY Commissioner Salvatore Cassano . True to the NFFF standards, the money raised from these events supports the survivors. It helps fund the FDNY Counseling Unit.

I couldn’t be in DC this morning as bad as I wanted to. I know several Brothers and Sisters who were and know we were represented well. I hope they found what Rhett and I have inside that stairwell during our climbs. It’s something we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.

For those who made the climb this morning … WELL DONE!

I posted this link to a previous post of my a day or so ago… if you didn’t hit it then … DO IT NOW. Even though I wrote it, it’s a good piece that kind of sums it up for those of us on the job ….

Read “We are ALL climbing”

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 25, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 343, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, Brian Brush, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, CFSI, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Ironfiremen, Joey Angelini, LODD, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, NFFF, twin towers, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, World Trade Center

9/11 Memorial Stair Climb #5 and more of my FDIC 2012 follow up

5 comments

Sorry I had to cut last night’s post short and I guess you’ll have to hang with me on this one too because I’m still in the bed sick. Actually, I haven’t been out of the bed since we got back ( well not past the bathroom anyway).

I don’t know what I picked up in Indy but I can tell ya it’s BAD.

I guess I shouldn’t have kissed that Mexican gal in the Mariachi Band … I think it was a gal anyway..LOL

The good news is that I’m tougher than I look so I will most likely survive (I guess that’s good news anyway…LOL)

Catch up by my previous post HERE

Photo by Andy Golz

So, on Friday; we opened the booth but Rhett, Andrew and I soon headed over to the Lucas Oil Stadium for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

This would be the 5th climb for both me and Rhett. We had vowed that our 4th was to have been our last and that we would concentrate all our efforts to supporting the committee.

I think we both knew it would be a difficult promise to keep.

We have so many Brothers and Sisters contact us wanting us to climb with them that we can’t possibly say yes to them all. Meaning no disrespect to those who have asked, it shouldn’t be about climbing with us in the first place … you should all climb for your own reasons and I can assure you that even if you don’t know what that reason is right now, you’ll find it while climbing.

Rhett and I do it for several reasons. We don’t climb just for the names we carry on that climb, we do it for the entire 343. We do it to honor their names and memory. To honor our profession and complete the job they weren’t allowed to. We do it out of respect for the men who defined what today’s fire service is all about. For the men who ran into that building knowing what they faced and made the biggest rescue in American history. Most of all, we climb for the survivors. The men, women, children and families this murderous act left behind.

Read my post “We are ALL climbing”

I think that it’s important to know that the money raised from these events goes to the FDNY’s Counseling Unit. FDNY Commissioner Salvatore Cassano told us himself back in December 2011 that the money raised from last years events was the only thing keeping this Unit in Service … WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

Brian Brush said at FDIC this year “if you can’t climb, pay the $25 donation and he will carry the card”. (meaning the name and picture of one of the 343 fallen). THAT Brothers and Sisters screams Pride, Honor and Respect. THAT’S Brotherhood!

So, climb #5. For us, they are all emotional. Rhett and I have written about them many many times. We have never known “what” we were looking for or “what” we would find but we have always come away as different people. Rhett had a great quote in one of his latest post …

“When we climb, it is emotional. The feelings I have felt, the thoughts I have had, the emotions have been engraved in my mind. They are my tattoos.”

I have to admit that I couldn’t get into the right mind set for this climb. We had said that we were done at 4 but when FDIC didn’t get 343 members signed up to climb, we had to go ( can you believe that?? 30,000 people in attendance at FDIC and we couldn’t get 343 of them to climb).

Read about our previous climbs HERE

Anyway I couldn’t get to “that place” that we are normally at before a climb. I don’t know if was all the lights, banners etc inside the stadium or the fact that we were not in an actual “stairwell”.

We were out in the open. Out there for any and everyone to watch if they wanted. Despite my reservations, once again I found something during my climb… HEART and Brotherhood.

I was sick and neither Rhett nor I had eaten since early the night before. Maybe it was that or just maybe I’m getting old. Either way, this was one of the hardest climbs I’ve done yet. Because of the layout, we climbed down just as much as we did up. It was almost like doing 2 climbs in one.

I was ready to quit before the end of lap one but somewhere found the drive to push on. I say “somewhere” but that drive was actually all around me. Having to go up and down the sections, we were constantly passing other members heading the other direction. I can’t tell ya how many “great job Capt” …. “THANKS Capt” … and “way to go Capt” that I got. I didn’t look up to see their faces… I couldn’t. Actually, I didn’t need to …. they were my Brothers and Sisters and in that sense, we are all the same. THANKS to each and every one of you who offered your support. Thanks also for participating … WELL DONE!

Read Rhett’s post on our Climb HERE

After the climb, Rhett and I continued our tradition of toasting the fallen over a cold beer.

This time, we were able to share our toast with Brothers Brian Brush, Andrew Catron, Jared Lindholm and W.D Patterson (not shown).

We were only able to continue this tradition due to one person … Brother Joe Lyons

Joe is a long time follower of our sites, a great friend and most of all … a TRUE Brother!

What he did for us at FDIC was VERY cool and something that I’m sure Rhett and I will “steal” at future events.

You see, when Rhett and I arrived at the MN8-FoxFire Booth that morning, everyone was excited that we had received a package… a delivery.

They figured it was more of our Challenge Coins since they knew we were running out and the box “rattled” when they shook it.

You can imagine our surprise when we tore her open … BEER … ICED DOWN BEER!

How cool is that?

Joe knew he wouldn’t / couldn’t catch / find us out on the town while in Indy and he was dead set on buying us a beer. With that in mind, he figured he’d buy em and send where he knew we’d be … in the booth.

I gotta tell ya … that was one of the coolest things we’ve had happen to us while on the road … and we’ve had a lot of cool things happen.

SPECIAL THANKS again Brother … not sure how we are gona pay ya back for this one but we’re gonna try.

So after the climb, we finished out the evening in the booth.

Afterwards, I went to bed while Rhett and the boys illuminated the town. I’m not sure everything they got into but it must have been good.

Saturday morning, we ended up the show with our final 1/2 day in the exhibit hall. Everyone was EXHAUSTED.

Thanks again to everyone who stopped by the MN8-FoxFire Booth for a personal demo or to purchase product. For those of you who didn’t make it by the booth, Zach is honoring the “show prices” for 10 days after FDIC. Hit the link above for their web site or …

MN8-Fox Fire on Face Book

Again, THANKS to everyone who stopped by for a visit and picture .. it was an HONOR to get to meet each and every one of you!

We met Brothers and Sisters from as far away as Sweden and Canada. Chief Bailie even returned to the booth to give me one of his Department’s hats. THANKS Chief!

The one Canadian I didn’t see was Hydrant Gal and I actually figured we would have. If you folks don’t know who this pretty little canuck is, hit the link above .. I’ve followed her site for years now and REALLY enjoy it.

Our apologies to those of you whom we didn’t get to meet or spend a lot of time with …. we wish we had more time and hope to catch ya somewhere down the road.

Rhett put up a GREAT post (as are all of his) listing a lot of the folks we met and even displaying some 45 pictures! If your name or pic isn’t in that post, let us know and we’ll get it up.

Read The Fire Critic’s FDIC Wrap Up Part III

Like what you read? Leave us a comment, hit “share” and “like” …. tell all your friends. You can go one step farther and “follow” us on Face Book as well …

IronFiremen.com on Face Book

Gonna wrap this one up. Thanks as always for following. I’ll get back to ya as soon as I shake the “bug” I’m fighting. Until I do… stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 23, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: 343, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, Box Alarm Leather, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Challenge coins, Dave Statter, FDIC 2012, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Hydrant Girl, Ironfiremen, leather fire helmets, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Lucas Oil Stadium, MN8 FoxFire Products, MN8 products, NFFF, NM Coins LLC, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Booth Babes, FDIC another 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and more!

9 comments

We are back from FDIC 2012. We actually drove home through the night (last night) because I’m sick… and NO … not like “hung over” sick…. “sick” sick. Despite having to cut the trip short, we had a BLAST!

Rhett ( The Fire Critic ) and I try to “step it up” a little at each event we attend and FDIC 2012 was a HUGE SUCCESS for the Fire Critic and Ironfiremen.com.

Our main reason for the trip was to help Zach Green and the MN8-FoxFire Team in booth #3026. It was an easy job because the product is so good that it sells itself.

Rumor is that this year set a record for attendance and sales at FDIC and I would bet that we were one of the top 5 busiest booths. Several of the staff members from FDIC even came by and asked me what all the “hype” was about around our booth. As soon as I got them in the tent … they understood.

Jacob and Troy from the TV show ”Swamp People” were in the Ferrara Fire Truck booth ( I don’t understand the connection ) but it was the MN8-FoxFire booth that was SWAMPED.
I guess Rhett and I were kinda like the FoxFire “booth babes”. I say that for several reasons. One of the reasons is because we were wearing kilts. Not dresses … kilts (it’s defined by what you ARE or are NOT wearing under em …lol). Not just any kilt either. We were wearing our custom kilts from ALT KILT.

ALT KILT on Face Book HERE

They wear a HUGE SUCCESS and the “hype” began as soon as we arrived.

We got into town on Wednesday evening and headed straight to the Fire Rescue 1 Meet Up and the FOOLS Bash.

Everywhere we turned, we were meeting and greeting Brothers, Sisters, friends and followers (new and old alike). I have to be honest with you … we were not expecting that.

Now don’t get me wrong … we LOVED it! Everyone there wanted to meet, talk to and get a picture with us. We didn’t make it past 20 foot into the gates.

In the past, whenever folks would come up to us and say ” I love your site and read it every day”, we would always reply “so you’re the one” …LOL. Well, it was very apparent at FDIC that we now have at least a few more than “one” loyal reader / follower and if we didn’t get the chance to tell ya at FDIC, THANKS!

We passed out every Challenge Coin, patch and Brotherhood Chip we had with us and needed a few hundred more! If you missed us at FDIC or wasn’t there to get yours, don’t panic…. you can still get one. For our Challenge Coin, patch and custom badges ….

Visit NM Coin Here

Also visit The Chip Site to find where our Brotherhood Chips were made

It was a fun night! The next morning, we opened the booth and was again over run. Folks were showing up to meet and visit with us and to get a personal demo of the MN8 FoxFire Products. We knew then that this would be a show like no other that we have attended.

We apologize to any of you that we didn’t get to speak to personally and wish we could have spent more time with those who we did. Several times, there were folks waiting for a picture while we were giving product demos etc.

We made every effort to step aside real quickly and hope we got to all of you. We put a bunch of pictures up on our Face Book pages. Be sure to take a look at em and tag yourself if we didn’t already. Also, if you have one of or with us that we don’t … please tag us as well.

Find, Like and Follow us on Face Book HERE

So, after the floor closed for day 1, we have several dinners to attend. Our first was with Fire Rescue Magazine / Firefighter Nation where we actually received some pretty cool recognition. If you’re not a subscriber of Fire Rescue Magazine or a member of Firefighter Nation … YOU SHOULD BE (hit that link above). Here’s what they had to say about the award we received …

Fire Service writers, bloggers receive awards.

Afterwards, we had a team dinner with the MN8-FoxFire Team. Zach gave us a special gift of a framed quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson…

“Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail”

Very fitting for MN8-FoxFire, The Fire Critic and Ironfiremen.com. I can’t wait to see where we end up on this journey.

That said .. I have to stop this post here. As I mentioned above, I’m sick and attempting to write this post from bed. I’ll do my best to follow up with a “Part 2″ as soon as possible. Sorry to make ya wait … thanks for following and be sure to hit that Face Book link above for more great pictures from FDIC.

You can also read a “FDIC Wrap up Part 1” post from Rhett

Until I get back, Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 22, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: Alt Kilt, booth babes, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Challenge coins, FDIC, FDIC 2012, FDNY, Fire Critic, Fire Rescue Magazine, Fire Service Awards, Firefighter Nation, firefighter pics, firefighters, kilts, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 products, NM Coins LLC, Ray McCormick, The Chip Site, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Gearing up

No comments

I know where the term “March Madness” comes from but for me, it has nothing to do with basketball.

In my world, it’s tax time. Time for me to figure out my fertilizer needs and how I’m going to pay for it. Time to find enough money to fill our diesel tanks before the cost per gallon makes it impossible. Time to prep all the equipment for the fast approaching hay season and time to move all the cattle to summer pastures.

A busy time on the farm to say the least. It’s also the beginning of the busy time for The Fire Critic (Rhett Fleitz) and Ironfiremen.com. Our “travel season” is just around the corner and our schedule is filling fast.

Rhett and I have actually already had a good start to 2012 and it’s only going to get better.

We kicked off the year with a couple unexpected trips but we wouldn’t have traded them for the world. We get into a little bit of everything but, January started off with a first for us…. motivational speaking. We had kicked the idea around for a long time but The Swoope Volunteer Fire Company’s Awards Dinner was to be our first venue. We were a huge success!

Find, Like and Follow the Swoope VFD on Face Book by clicking HERE

Read my post on the event HERE

Still in January, we got together with Zach Green and the awesome team at MN8-FoxFire and raised some money for the FDNY’s Rescue 2 MayDay Fund. You may remember the December 19, 2011 Brooklyn blaze that seriously injured firefighters Wiedmann and Gersbeck of the Famed Rescue 2.

Thanks to the efforts of our readers and loyal FoxFire customers, we were able to raise over $2,300.00 for the fund that supported these two members and their families during their recovery! It was a very humbling experience. We presented the check in person to Captain Flaherty and the men of Rescue 2.

Read the related posts HERE and HERE

At the time, Brother Gersbeck and been released for the burn unit to continue recovering at home. Firefighter Weidmann remained in critical condition and would require many more surgeries and accompanying time in the unit. Well guess what?? Last Friday, March 23rd, Brother Wiedmann was finally released. Let me rephrase that … not only was he released, he WALKED OUT of the burn unit!

Firefighter Robert Wiedmann heads home: MyFoxNY.com

After returning home from New York, we intended to take it easy and rest up before our full schedule began. Well, that didn’t happen. Somehow or another, we had to find the time to launch a new web site. We have been doing product reviews on our sites for a while now but we never really had a place that was easy for our readers to find them all.

We would soon launch Fire Product Review.com .

It’s a GREAT site! Not only do we give you our review / rating of the products, we also allow YOU to score them as well!

Yea …. with our site, you get to rank the product too. Maybe you found something we didn’t. Maybe the product is not as effective for how you operate. Not everyone will agree with our opinions and we wanted to make sure that you get the “Low-Down” on these products before spending the money. If you haven’t already …check us out. Be sure to tell us how you would “score” the products we’ve reviewed. Use the link above to visit the web site or …

Click HERE to follow Firefighter Product Review on Face Book

We didn’t stop there. Instead of that “rest” we were supposed to be getting, we then teamed up with the National Firefighter’s Endowment to create and support ”Brotherhood Cuts“.

“National Firefighters Endowment is a non-profit, public charity with a driving passion to protect the lives of our firefighters. We believe that small actions can have life altering results and that the right equipment in the hands of our heroes can literally be the difference between life and death.”

Visit the National Firefighters Endowment HERE

Our involvement would have me packing my bags again in March. I traveled to Pinnacle, NC to visit with the Shoals VFD and open our 1st ever event. The goal was to raise money to purchase “Bail Out Bags” for the Surry County Departments. Thanks to Firefighter Chaplain Chris Gillett and several others, they raised over $2,000.00 towards their purchase!

Read that post by clicking HERE

Now, we are gearing up for FDIC (Fire Department Instructor’s Conference) to be held April 16-21st in Indianapolis. It’s a HUGE event and once again, Rhett and I will team up with Zach Green and the MN8-FoxFire Team!

Visit us in Booth #3026 !

We already have a very busy schedule for the week but want you to tag along. The easiest thing to do will be to meet us at the booth. We might even have a couple “Booth Babes” on hand!

We will be able to give you a personal demo of the FoxFire Products. Did I mention “Booth Babes“? There, we can also share our itinerary with you so that we can spend some time together away from the convention floor.

There are several other events to attend other than the classes and exhibit floor while at FDIC. There’s the FOOLS Bash, the IAFF party, a 5k run, Battle of the Bands, Stop Drop and Rock and Roll for the NFFF, a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, an exhibitor’s combat challenge and so much more! We’re going to have a BLAST!

Rhett and I will be wearing our new patch!

Yea … we’ve had our own patch designed by the folks at NM Coins LLC. These guys did an AWESOME job! They have also created our new Challenge Coins and badges.

We should have a few “give aways” on hand for FDIC. The coins and patches will also be available to purchase very soon in case you miss us at FDIC. We will let you know where and how asap. Until then, check out NM Coins and let em know what you think of the design. Better yet, throw some business their way and let em do the same for you and/or you company / Department.

Visit NM Coins HERE

Like and Follow on Face Book HERE

I guess I should also mention that we will be wearing kilts.

In preparation, I’m going to take Rhett to a tattoo parlor sometime this week. I’m going to have the devil put on one of his knees and the great Chicago fire on the other. It will be more realistic that way because Rhett wearing a kilt is going to look like HELL! LMAO !

All kidding aside, check out the folks over at Alt Kilt and pick one out one for yourself. Don’t be the only guy at the next event in long pants!

Visit Alt Kilt by clicking HERE

So there ya have it …. Rhett and I are geared up and ready to go … I hope you are too! The next big trip is FDIC and we’d love to meet you there. We should be easy to find but just in case … remember Booth 3026 !

Im on duty tonight and will back Thursday and Saturday. I’ll check back in asap … I’ve got some breaking news out of Botetourt and a few local happenings to report as well. Until I get back …

stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on March 27, 2012 • Filed under: news • Tagged: Alt Kilt, booth babes, brotherhood, Brotherhood Cut, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Challenge coins, FDIC, FDIC 2012, FDNY, FDNY R2, FDNY Rescue 2 Mayday Fund, Fire Critic, Fire Department Patches, firefighter challenge coins, firefighter Gersbeck, firefighter pics, Firefighter Product Reviews, firefighter Wiedmann, firefighters, Fox Fire products, injured firefighters, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 Fox Fire, MN8 products, National Firefighters Endowment, NFFF, NM Coins LLC, Product Reviews, Rhett Fleitz, Shoals Volunteer Fire Department, Swoope Volunteer Fire Company, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Happy St Patrick’s Day from IronFiremen.com

No comments

Once again, I have to start off with an apology. My postings have been few and far between here lately but I should be back on a regular schedule soon. As always, my excuse is work. I’ve been completely swamped but I think I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Today, instead of joining my Brothers and Sisters on the Parade route and raising a few pints in celebration of St Patrick’s Day, I’m working day 2 of a 72 hour tour. Yea … 3 days straight! Friday, I worked to pay back some time that I owed to Captain Flora, of A-shift; here at Lucky #13. Today, I’m doing the same for Lt. Hauck of B-shift. Both of these Brothers worked for me a little while back to allow Rhett and I to travel.

We have both posted about “trading shifts” many times. Working a 72 would not have been my first choice …especially over the St. Patty’s Day weekend but, when you owe someone time, you don’t have the luxury of picking the day (you pay them back on a day THEY need .. not one that suits YOUR schedule).

So anyway, here I am…. at the firehouse. I hope you folks are not stuck on duty and are having or had a GREAT St. Patrick’s Day! If you’re still at it, raise a pint or 20 for me!

I hope you all have on a little something green or you may get a pinch.

For the lads, I hope you’re covered head to toe (of course I’m talking to firemen and know that you are all most likely butt naked by this point). As for the Lasses, well …. hopefully they have on a wee bit less or at least look as good in it as the little leprechaun pictured to the right does.

Since poor little me is stuck here … maybe you guys could send me some pictures of your adventures today. Marching in the Parade … Pipes and Drums … sexy little leprechauns etc. Send em to the comment section here or to my Face Book Fan Page.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on FaceBook by clicking HERE then “Like”

I have a touch of green on myself today.

I’m wearing Station #3′s 2012 St Patrick’s Day shirt design.

It’s a great looking shirt! The ~~hippies~~ Brothers over at Station #3 call the place “The Green House”. It’s all about going “green” over there. Automatic lights, toliet water re-routed to the showers, rain water for washing the rigs, trash compactors, compost piles etc.

Since #3 is all about everything “green”, they’ve adopted the Hulk as their mascot. The shirt has the Hulk holding a leprechaun in one hand and a bunch of shamrocks in the other. There is even a pot of gold by his feet. A pretty cool design on a quality shirt. I think the shirt was developed by Eric Mulford or “Wing Nut” as I call him. Great job guys and THANKS for giving me the chance to buy one.

St Patrick’s Day always takes my mind to New York City and our Brothers of the FDNY. I used to go up every year for the Parade. We had been up so often that they even let us march along side them. My last trip up was March 2002 following the September 11th attacks. I march with the Brothers of 39/16 and will never forget the experience. I haven’t returned for a parade since.

Today is also my dad and step mothers anniversary. I missed the wedding to go to NYC for the parade but they took it really well ( they ran off to the beach and forgot to get me a ticket / hotel room anyway …LOL ). So HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to Pop and Robyn.

It was also on St Patrick’s Day 1 year ago that we met our now Fire Department Chaplain Father Sandy Webb.

Father Webb has come a long way in the past year and again I’ll say that I’m honored to have him by our side.

It started out over a meal of corned beef and cabbage. The next thing we know, he is our official Chaplain. He made it out for several visits and has even taken in a few runs with us. He has responded to all 2nd alarm and greater fires. He’s blessed my new Phenix leather helmet and now has even participated in training with us. He’s been a GREAT Chaplain and an even better friend.

Read a related post about Father Sandy Webb by clicking HERE

Ok, moving on … I have a LOT of catching up to do so hang with me and be sure to hit all the links I provide.

Voting has begun for the 2012 Fire & EMS Blog of the Year !

The contest is once again hosted by The Fire Critic (Lt. Rhett Fleitz) and is sponsored by Fire Rescue 1.com and EMS1.com

I was not eligible for the contest this year because Ironfiremen.com is the reining 2011 Black Diamond Footwear Fire Blog of the Year !

It has been a HUGE honor!

Kelly Grayson of A Day In The Life Of An Ambulance Driver was the much deserving winning in the EMS category.

Kelly and I (along with some others) will be the judges for this years contest.

I don’t know how many, but there were a TON of nominations. The list has been narrowed down to 28 … 14 Fire and 14 EMS related Blogs. The competition is TOUGH as they are all very good sites. Use the link below to submit your vote!

Click HERE to review nominations and VOTE for the 2012 Fire & EMS Blogs of the Year

MN8-FoxFire doesn’t need your votes but they do want / need your help and submissions.

Zach Green and the MN8-FoxFire Team have come up with another GREAT way to keep us involved in their product.

The product was designed for us (firefighters and our safety) in the 1st place and MN8-FoxFire has always done a fantastic job of listening to our wants / concerns and adjusting their product accordingly.

They are rewarding us again with more customer / user input. MN8-FoxFire wants your help in designing their next shirt. HOW COOL IS THAT ?!?

They are currently taking submissions for their next shirt design. The winner and the shirt will be reveled at FDIC next month. The MN8-FoxFire logo will be on the front and the winning design on the back. And YES … the shirts “glow” just like their other products! Here’s a short quote from their site …

”The same photoluminescent technology used in Foxfire’s fire safety products will be used in the ink displayed on the shirt, enabling the graphics to brightly light up in the dark. We are looking for a design that is fabulously eye-catching and creative, but also wearable and practical. Design something you would be proud to wear yourself.”

Click HERE for DETAILS, RULES and how to SUBMIT

Visit the web site by clicking HERE or find them on Face Book HERE

FDIC is just around the corner … April 16-21. MN8-FoxFire will be there once again in full force and that include me and Rhett. That’s right … make you plans now to meet up with me and Rhett while at FDIC. Our schedule is filling up fast but we will be easiest to find in the Fox Fire booth #3026 … be sure to stop in and say hello and get your personal demo of the FoxFire products!

Have you seen our new patch?

Oh yea baby … Rhett and I will have our very own patch for our uniforms etc by FDIC. They look AWESOME!

They are being made by NM Coins LLC. They are also making our badges and a new challenge coin.

We will have some to pass out at FDIC and will soon get ya the details on how to order one for your self in case you don’t get the opportunity to have your hand delivered.

I’m VERY excited on how things are shaping up so far this year …. it’s gonna be our best yet!

.

Visit NM Coins web site HERE or find them on Face Book HERE

You may also spot us wearing our new kilts at FDIC. Yep ….you heard me correctly … Rhett and I will be wearing KILTS !

We’re going to keep some of the details under wraps for now ( and hopefully a lot more “under wraps” while we are wearing them) but I will let you know that they are being made by ALT.KILT.

Check out their web site HERE or on Face Book HERE.

I also want to give you an early “heads up” on another one of our scheduled events. Rhett and I will be heading out to Sioux Falls South Dakota in September. Bob Gard is planning one hell of an event and if you are anywhere near or can make the arrangements to get out there… YOU ARE NOT GOING TO WANT TO MISS IT !

We need to tie up just a few more “loose ends” before we let all of the details out but I will tell ya that the event will benefit some very important organizations and it’s gonna be BIG!

Make plans to be out there for the September 15th event !

Rhett and I will actually be out there Sept. 12-16th with a VERY full schedule. Bob has events and stops scheduled all week … come on out and join us … you wont be disappointed.

Find and “Like” Bob Gard on Face Book HERE

Ok, I’m going to stop here for tonight. I told ya in the beginning that I’m working B-shift today. What I failed to mention was that I’m riding backwards. It’s the Lt’s job to drive and that’s the position I’m covering but figured that the firefighter from B-shift ( Brian “gooch” Reger ) is better suited to wheel (it’s been a while for me).

Anyway, I’m riding backwards and we even caught a little work a few hours ago. Not much of a fire but I did have to make a stretch and even if I have to say so myself …. I still have it …LOL .. it was a text book stretch. The Brothers and sisters of B-shift put in some quick work, made a great stop and spared the owner a lot of damages. Well done fellas (and Heather).

I know I shouldn’t mention it but will whoever is attempting to fret Captain Dillon today PLEASE STOP.

We’ve been getting “hang up” calls all day and apparently, someone has hacked into the Engine’s computer.

I’m not sure how it happened but somehow, they got to our background and screen saver!

Some kind of little dancing elf or leprechaun or something … LMAO!

We’ve been trying to figure out how to change it or get it removed but it’s just beyond our computer skills (wink wink).

That should be enough to hold ya for tonight … I’ll still be here tomorrow for my regular shift (Sun, Tue, Thurs) and will try to get back with another post or two. Don’t forget to VOTE for you favorite Fire & EMS Blog of the year over on The Fire Critic. If you didn’t hit the link at the beginning of the post … CLICK HERE .

Until I get back to ya … stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on March 17, 2012 • Filed under: ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2012 Fire & EMS Blog of the Year, Alt Kilt, Black Diamond Boots, Blog of the Year contest, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Father Sandy Webb, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter challenge coins, Firefighter Chaplin Program, firefighter kilts, firefighter patches, firefighter pics, Firefighter T-shirts, firefighters, house fire, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 FoxFire Products, NM Coins LLC, Randy Armbrister, RIT Training, sexy St Patrick's Day outfit, St PAtrick's Day 2012, St Patrick's Day Parade, St Patricks Day shirts, Todd Harris, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire, Zach Green

Brotherhood abound and remembering 2 of Virginia’s fallen

2 comments

Rhett Fleitz ( FireCritic.com) and I are lucky. We have been allowed to travel all across the Country over the past few years. We have witnessed countless acts of Brotherhood and met hundreds of TRUE Brother and Sister firefighters.

We hear that word a lot in our travels … “Brotherhood” and now, actually travel to speak on the subject.

Contact us about speaking at your event by clicking HERE

When you hear the word “Brotherhood” spoken, most of us associate it with the larger Departments in the Country. The FDNY always comes to mind for most but, you hardly ever hear about the “small town USA” Volunteer Fire Company.

That’s one of the things we’ve learned along our journey …. Brotherhood is all around us. It’s REAL … it’s ALIVE and WELL and you never know where you’ll find it at work…. in the largest of cities or the smallest of towns.

Yesterday, I traveled to Pinnacle, North Carolina. More specifically, I visited the Shoals Volunteer Fire Department. I was there for the 1st ever Brotherhood Cuts Event.

“Brotherhood Cuts” is a fund raising event specifically designed for the fire service. It raises money through the National Firefighters Endowment who in turn, provides much needed funds and equipment to Departments in need all across the Country.

“National Firefighters Endowment seeks to support organizations that lack the tools and resources necessary to more effectively protect the life and safety of the public and their emergency response personnel with respect to fire and all other hazards.”

Learn more about the National Firefighters Endowment by Clicking HERE . Learn more about Brotherhood Cuts by Clicking HERE . Read the Fire Critic’s post on both by Clicking HERE .

So yesterday was our Inaugural event. It was spearheaded by Shoals VFD Lt. Chris Gillett aka Firefighter Chaplain (find him on Face Book HERE ).

Chris did a FANTASTIC job! He and a handful of other members from the surrounding area ( Taylor Welch, Eric Southern, Will Nowotny, Terrence Graham, and Justin Wilmoth ) set out to raise funds to purchase Bail Out Bags for Surry County Firefighters (North Carolina).

These “Bags” are a personal “escape” system. They allow firefighters an emergency means of egress from the 2nd floor and above. They allow us an alternative to jumping out of a window should we become cut off or trapped by the fire. These “systems” SAVE THE LIVES OF FIREFIGHTERS.

These members weren’t trying to purchase the bags just for themselves either …. they wanted to raise enough money to purchase a couple of bags for every Department in Surry County! Firefighters looking out for other Firefighters …. BEAUTIFUL!

They would raise the money by agreeing to shave their heads. YEA …. they agreed to SHAVE THEIR HEADS in order to purchase much needed, life saving equipment for their fellow firefighters. THAT’S BROTHERHOOD !

They missed their overall goal but made a very respectful first showing by raising over $2,000. Their efforts will make a difference in Surry County and they should all be proud.

They held the event at Shoals Station #61 and started off with a “hot dog social”. There were several folks in attendance including myself and good friend, Brother and fellow blogger Pete Sulzer ( aka Captain Chaos of ELAFF.com ) .

Only the participants who reached their donation “goal” were obligated to shave their heads. There was going to be 2 … Chris and Taylor Welch. They has asked Pete and I to speak before the shaving began and although unprepared, we were honored. We spoke briefly on Brotherhood. Of course it was difficult for Pete to get a word in with me in front of a crowd…LOL.

I din’t do a good job. Actually, it was one of the worst talks I’ve presented on the subject. I was unprepared and awkward. I hope I got my point across and think I did. I wanted them to understand exactly WHAT they were a part of that night. I wanted them to know that THEY .. in “small town USA” Pinnicle, NC were setting a standard for Brotherhood that the rest of the Country would have to follow. I wanted everyone in attendance to know that these two Brothers were shaving their heads for THEM ….someone else … their Brother and Sisters and not for themselves. I wasn’t even looking and once again found Brotherhood at work.

After our talk, 10 members stepped up and shaved their heads! Even the Shoals Chief, Adrian Wall; went under the blades of the clipper!

I was humbled by their gesture and honored to have been part of such a great event / effort.

Again I’ll say that each and every member who received a shave should be PROUD and I hope they know the impact they’ve made on the Fire Service. I hope their effort inspires others .

The 10 members who received their “Brotherhood Cut” is…Shoals Lt. Chris Gillett, Shoals Firefighter Andrew Scott, Shoals Lt. Dustin Baker, Shoals Lt. Gerald Brewer, Firefighter Tanner Haynes, Kernersville Firefighter Taylor Welch, Shoals Chief Adrian Wall, Pinnacle Firefighter Kyle Hall, Pinnacle Firefighter Kevin Settles and Blewes Creek Firefighter Will Nowotny.

Read coverage from Mondee Tilley on Mt Airy News.com by clicking HERE

Congratulations and WELL DONE Brothers!

While I was there, I also got to meet and visit with Shoals Junior Firefighter Bobby Fulp.

Firefighter Chaplain (Chris Gillett) has talked about Bobby on Face Book several times here lately.

Bobby was born with an abnormal heart. He has faced many surgeries throughout his young life (currently 17 yrs old) and has an internal pace maker.

He hasn’t been feeling well lately and, sadly; has learned that his pace maker has failed. It needs replaced and Bobby may end up needing a heart transplant. Although sad, his story is also inspiring.

Bobby has always wanted to be a firefighter. His condition will not allow it. Well, not a “firefighter” as most folks (including Bobby) would define it.

Chris told me a few weeks back that on several occasions, Bobby gets “down” because he can not preform “interior” firefighting operations on the fire ground. That’s what he thinks the definition of a firefighter is … the guy on the end of the nozzle or on the tip of the ladder. MAN WAS HE WRONG.

I had a great talk with Bobby. I explained to him that all the things he does around the station and for his Department makes him more of a firefighter than most. There is always several members rushing to the scene of a working fire for their chance to “get the nozzle”. Members will race one another to a volunteer station in order to get the drivers position. You never hear of these same members rushing or racing to the station for training night. You’ll never find them at the station pushing a broom or washing the rig. Nobody is fighting for the chance to take out the trash or clean the bathrooms. Changing an air bottle or setting out equipment on the scene of a fire is certainly beneath members such as these. NOT FOR BOBBY. Since he can’t go in … he does EVERYTHING else and thought of himself less of a firefighter because of it.

I hope I changed his views. I wish all the firefighters I knew were as passionate and enthusiastic as Bobby. I wish they shared his eagerness, determination and dedication. I found yet another example for us all to follow right there in Pinnicle NC.

Chris had told me that Bobby enjoyed receiving patches, shirts, hats etc from other Departments.

Bobby will be heading to Duke for more surgeries and hopefully a brand new pace maker this Tuesday.

Knowing that, I contacted some folks and collected a few items for Bobby to add to his collection.

I took him a Brotherhood Chip from me and Rhett. He got an illuminating tee-shirt from MN8-FoxFire and patches from Roanoke Fire/EMS (Va), Read Mountain Fire/Rescue (Botetourt County, Va), Swoope VFD ( Augusta County Va) and one all the way from Germany! Bobby was ALL SMILES.

Find and “like” Bobby Fulp on FaceBook by clicking HERE

Back in Virginia, we buried 2 major contributors to the Fire Service on Saturday. Elliston VFD Chief M.L. “Pug” Wells and Richmond Fire Department Lt. David “Dave” Pulliam Sr.

I didn’t know Chief Wells or “Pug” as everyone calls him but I did know Dave Pulliam. Dave was VERY active in the IAFF as well as the VPFF. He served 35 yrs for the Richmond Fire Department and 25 yrs as President of Richmond Local #995. I have some GREAT memories of hanging out with Dave and “Big Bird” while out of town on Union business. These guys were a BLAST. It’s a good thing they took me with them back then or they may have ended up in jail… LMAO.

Rhett posted on Dave’s passing over on Va Fire News … CLICK HERE . Richmond City Council even acknowledged his passing … Click HERE .

Thanks for the lessons and memories Dave … you put in some solid work Brother and I will remember you! Rest EASY.

Rhett also covered Chief Well’s passing on Va Fire News … CLICK HERE .

He was even recognized on the floor of the General Assembly … Find that video by clicking HERE .

More coverage of Chief Well’s funeral can be found HERE .

**Sorry for the links .. I wanted to post the videos but the WDBJ 7 web site will not allow me to embed their video.**

I’m going to wrap it up for now … I’ll have more for ya on Tuesday . Until I get back…

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on March 11, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, funding-staffing, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Bobby Fulp, brotherhood, Brotherhood Cuts, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Chief "Pug" Wells, Chris Gillett, Dave Pulliam, Elliston VFD, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter patches, firefighter pics, firefighters, IAFF, IAFF Local 1132, IronFiremen.com, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, Mondee Tilley, Mt Airy News, mtairynews.com, National Firefighters Endowment, Phenix Leather Helmets, Pinnicle NC, Rhett Fleitz, Richmond Fire Department, Shaved heads, Shoals VFD, Shoals Volunteer Fire Department, Surry County NC, Swoope Volunteer Fire Company, volunteer fire departments, Volunteer firefighters, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Smoke, fire, a priest and a 3yr old!

2 comments

It’s been a mad house around here!

The weather is unbelievable. It’s 60 degrees one day and blowing snow the next.

All I know is that the Buckaroo and I took full advantage of the couple of warm days we had over 4 day break.

We actually worked pretty hard on the cold days as well but the good news is that we got a lot accomplished.

I get a lot of comments / e-mails etc asking about “the Buckaroo” so I figured I share a few pics from this week with you. He’s actually became pretty popular on the site.

A lot of folks seem to think he’s my son but he’s actually my grandson (yea … I know I don’t look that old..LOL).

He’s only 3 years old but has been with me on the farm pretty much every day that I’m not on duty. I even made a bracket to mount his car seat into the tractor when he was a baby (now he drives it).

The comments often range from one end of the spectrum to the other. Some say how “cute” and “cool” it is that I keep him with me while some have threatened to call Social Services .

LMAO … TRUST ME … the Buckaroo is VERY well taken care of and far from neglected.

If you ask him …. HE owns the farm and every piece of equipment we have…

It’s “his” tractor … “his” truck … “his” cows etc…. sometimes, I feel like I’m working for him…LOL

I wish I had the farm years ago and could have spent this much time with my daughters. If I only knew “then” what I know “now”.

I’m thankful for a job that allows me the time at home. I only wish it paid enough that I didn’t have to spend every day “off ” working a 2nd job.

The good news is that the work I do on my off days is enjoyable to me and being able to share it with my grandson is an added blessing.

We have some great adventures together and I almost feel young again…ALMOST.

LOL… sometimes just trying to keep up with him wears me out!

So, for everyone asking about the Buckaroo … he is doing very well and THANK YOU for asking.

I thought about starting him his own “Face Book Fan Page” but it seemed kinda creepy.

I will try to add an album of Buckaroo pics on my FB page so those of you needing a “Buckaroo fix” can keep up with his adventures.

Be sure to follow, Like and Share us on Face Book .. tell all your friends as well.

Click HERE to follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book .. click “Like”

Ok, so last cycle; I was busy filling you guys in on our latest New York City Trip. THANKS again to all who donated and help support Brothers Weidmann, Gersbeck and the FDNY Rescue 2 Mayday Fund!

I didn’t get to make a “regular” type post or to keep you updated on things happening here in “The Noke” so I’ll try to catch ya up now.

We did catch a little work last day (Monday).

Thankfully, we were on it quick, nobody was injured and the damage was minimal.

Randy was detailed down to station #5 who was 1st in. He still can’t grasp the term “Medic truck” so we’ve just been telling him that he’s riding the “life saving crew” …. LMAO … THAT he understands!

So 5 rolls in with light smoke showing and goes to investigate.

The Captain radios back that they have a “working fire” and directs his crew (of 1) to make the stretch.

The Chief was in house with 5 and established command very quickly. He calls me on the radio to advise me that 5 has a hydrant and gives us an assignment to search (yea… searching from an Engine … that’s what you have to do when you run with a minimum staffing of 3 ).

I’ve got “Boots” (Todd Harris) riding backwards and I’ve got to tell ya .. it felt great! Usually, I’m thinking, worried about Rookie Randy…. is he with me? Is he in a good position? Is he paying attention etc. With Boots, I don’t have to worry about any of that.

We came off the rig, I get my hook and tell boots to take the fire floor from side Alpha and that I’ll take the floor above from side Charlie … “I’ll meet ya on the 2nd floor”. Not the best but that’s how we operate.

The fire was a small kitchen fire located in the rear B/C corner of the home. We approached from the Bravo side and placed our rig on Alpha. I walked the Delta side to get to and enter from Charlie giving me the full 360 view of the house. I was quick to get by the fire room and locate the stairs.

For as little fire as there was, it was a pretty good smoke condition on the 2nd floor (low heat). When I came out of the first bedroom, I seen a MN8-FoxFire helmet band coming up the steps and knew it was Boots. We searched the remainder of the 2nd floor together like a well oiled machine. As a Captain, there’s not a better feeling than watching your men do their job and do it well. Boots is a good fireman!

Our searches were negative ( ALL CLEAR ) and we finished up by doing some ventilation, salvage and overhaul work.

We did get to see Rookie Randy out in the front yard…..LOL

He even changed my bottle for me ( I wont mention that he put an “empty” on me before Georgie pointed it out to him)

Units on scene were C-shift .. Engines 5, 13 and 2. Ladder 5, Medics 5 and 2. Battalion Chief 1 and 2, Support 2 and our investigation unit. Another good job by all members on scene!

I also had a special visitor / guest on the middle day of last cycle. Our newly appointed Department Chaplin, Father Sandy Webb stopped by.

You may remember my January 19th post titled ” I need a Priest “. Well, Father Webb is back from his trip and graciously accepted my request to bless my new helmet.

He was excited and for several reasons.

First off …he had just gotten his name and title sewn onto his turnout coat. He was beaming with PRIDE.

He was also excited to know that Ironfiremen.com would have the honor of posting the first ever pic of him in his gear!

Check out that new white helmet Father Sandy is sporting (I’m still wearing my old helmet in this pic).

LMAO .. how odd / funny is that? A Priest excited about making it on THIS site!

I’ve posted about Father Webb several times here on the site and remain excited to have him as part of our family.

A Chaplain Program is nothing new to our Department but this is the first time it has taken a hold and actually been productive.

A lot of that is due to Father Webb and his commitment to our members.

He’s the first Chaplain we’ve had that you can / will actually find / see in a firehouse.

He was also excited because we caught a run while he was here.

I figured… he has a badge, coat and helmet so we put him on the rig!

After getting back to quarters, we shared a few stories over some coffee and cake but Father Webb was on a tight schedule. He had never blessed a helmet before and asked if there was any “traditions” etc that he should know about. He also wanted to know if we would do this in front of everyone or alone.

Having my helmets blessed is a personal tradition of mine so I decided to do it in private. I haven’t really discussed it with the boys but I’m sure they didn’t mind.

I have to say that this was by far the best and most memorable blessing I’ve had done (and I’ve gone through several helmets). Father Webb came prepared. You would have never known it was his first.

I wont share his exact words but he asked a blessing upon me and the helmet. I found his words comforting and am honored that he accepted my request. He even made me a card to place inside my helmet to remind me of the occasion.

“This Fire Helmet was Dedicated to the Greater Glory of God and Blessed for the Protection of Captain Willie Wines Jr by the Rev. Sany Webb on Saturday February 4, 2012″

I haven’t placed the helmet into service yet because I still need a new “front”. Of course if you read the previous post I linked to above ” I need a Priest ” then you seen and remember that Rhett had the Brothers over at Box Alarm Leather LLC make me a custom front.

That front is just too nice to wear on my “first out” helmet. So, as soon as we get that new front in here this fancy new Phenix leather will be in service … I CAN’T WAIT!

Special thanks to Father Webb for the “Blessing” and everything else he does for me and my Brothers and Sisters here in Roanoke.

I’m going to wrap it up here for tonight but promise to get back with another post tomorrow. I have a lot of exciting news to share as far as new web sites and projects that Rhett and I are involved in ….. 2012 is going to be EXCITING !

Until I get back… stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Comments are always welcome and easier than ever when logged in to Face Book!

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 11, 2012 • Filed under: news • Tagged: Box Alarm Leather LLC, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chaplain programs, Engine 13, Father Sandy Webb, FDNY, Fire Department Chaplains, firefighter pics, firefighter traditions, firefighters, house fire, John Deer, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Phenix leather fire helmets, Rescue 2 MAYDAY Fund, Roanoke Fire/EMS, search and overhaul, The FireCritic, Working fire

Taking “Brotherhood” to the FDNY and so much more… 3rd and final part!

3 comments

Click to see PART 1 and Part 2 of this post

We get to “The Rock” ( Randall’s Island .. the FDNY Training center ) and who do we bump into ???

Our old friend and Brother Firefighter James Sorokac!

Jimmy gave us one hell of a tour back in December 2011 when we were there with the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation. We “hit it off” right from the start … it’s easy to tell that Jimmy is a fireman’s fireman.

I could talk for days about all the facilities at “The Rock” and Jimmy knew every one of em inside and out. The site is nothing short of amazing. They have an entire 3 story New York City Block built inside a massive structure … it’s 3 story buildings, built INSIDE another building to allow their members to train out of the weather! Flashover simulators, a subway mock up, multiple burn buildings, roof simulators, confined space, trench, passenger vehicle and even a bus fire simulator. You name it, they train on it and it can be found at “The Rock”.

Learn more about “The Rock” by clicking HERE

Seeing how we’ve already had the tour, this time; Jimmy just told us a few stories and OHHH.. what stories this Brother can tell!

He was actually pretty excited about one in particular. You see, Jimmy services on their Ceremonial Unit. Actually, he’s their Senior member! Click HERE to learn more about the FDNY Ceremonial Unit ! Back at the 10th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, Jimmy had the honor of ringing the bell. A photographer captured and unbelievable shot of James, at attention, hand on the bell, a tear on his cheek and the American flag in the foreground. I can’t describe the emotion I felt seeing the photo … or the emotion it captured.

Roberta Lerch, wife of Honorary Chief of Department Jack Lerch; created a painting from the photograph and presented it to the Ceremonial Unit. They in turn, presented it to the Commissioner and Chief of Department who then deemed it remain on display at the Training center.

That’s the picture hanging above Jimmy’s head (in the photo to the left).

They even had a nice write up and picture in WNYF (With New York Firefighters) 4th/2011.

He was VERY proud and should be ! Rhett and I have also heard rumors of that picture becoming a book cover very soon … VERY COOL !

Thanks again to Jimmy for spending a little time with us out at “The Rock”. Thanks also for the great stories and for caring enough to share them with us … nobody tells em like you do Brother!

So, we got to visit with the Chief of Training as well. Soon, we’d find ourselves in the Captain’s office. Usually, being in the Captain’s office isn’t a good thing but this time … IT WAS AWESOME!

Beside every good Captain is a GREAT Lieutenant and we had the honor of meeting Lt. Ed Galiani as well.

Lt. Galiani has been wearing a MN8-FoxFire Helmet Band for a little while now. Can you see it?? Yea … it’s on there just burnt, blackened and smoked up a bit…. just a little bit.

We always get questions as to how the Helmet Bands hold up … this should leave no doubt in your mind.

Lt. Galiani did say he was a little concerned that it didn’t glow anymore but was very pleased that it hadn’t burned apart. It hadn’t even cracked up like the old inner tubes.

Well, Zach took the band off and headed over to the sink.

After a little soap and water, she began to clean up nicely… the Lt was impressed.

He just wasn’t aware that you can clean the Bands. So, for all of you out there wearing them ..YES …wash em. Soap and water will do well if washed regularly. If you’ve put em through the ringer as Lt Galiani has .. use something a little stronger .

We took this Band and presented Lt Galiani with a brand new one. Zach wanted to take this one back to the home office so he can show those who doubt just how well they hold up. This band has seen hundreds of fires and who knows how many heat cycles! FIREFIGHTER TESTED BABY!!

Learn more and purchase you MN8-FoxFire Helmet Band by clicking HERE

So, we left The Rock, and headed to Ground Zero. Of course we dropped in to visit our friends at Ten House and then grabbed a bite to eat. It had been a busy 2 days and we were BEAT so we headed back to the hotel.

There, we received a call. One of our loyal fans / followers lived not too far away and wanted to come meet us.

Little did we know that Christine Sarracino would have to sneek out of the house to do so…. LOL (just kidding).

Christine fought late buses and trains to finally meet us.

We headed down to a local bar for a few beers and stories. She was very fun to hang out with.

She even made a special gift for each of us. I had mentioned in an earlier post that we were thinking of having a patch designed that Incorporated both Ironfiremen.com and the FireCritic logo. She designed one for us to consider, printed it out, framed it and added a special note with each! It was a GREAT gift!

The next morning, we headed South in Jersey to Fire Hooks Unlimited!

Visit Fire Hooks Unlimited by clicking HERE

I carry a 6 foot “New York Hook” on every fire. It gives me reach and allows for plenty of leverage. I LOVE IT and these are the folks who make em!

Not only that, the owner; Bob Ferrell is a Retired FDNY Captain (who Retired as an “Acting” Battalion). Captain Ferrell is one of the most famous FDNY Captains and I call tell ya without a doubt … he’s a CAT BIRD!

You can read about some of his exploits in books such as Dennis Smith’s “Report from engine company 82″ or “Fire Department of New York – The Bravest 1865-2000” by FF Paul Hashage .

Learn / read more about FDNY Captain Bob Ferrell by clicking HERE

Captain Ferrell rolled out the red carpet …. we got a first class tour by him personally.

Captain Ferrell is holding the 5 foot version of the tool I carry in the picture shown to the right.

This place was AMAZING .. Rhett, Zach and I were in heaven.

The only thing better than the tour was the Stories Captain Ferrell told ….OMG!

I could have sat and listened to him for days! It was a perfect ending to another great trip! That evening, Rhett and I turned the ol “Blog Mobile” (that’s Rhett’s mini-van) south and headed home.

So, that was our trip in a nut shell … even though it took me 3 posts to get it all out! I want to say THANK YOU again to everyone who supported our effort in raising money for the FDNY Rescue 2 Mayday Fund…. WE MADE A DIFFERENCE!

Thanks also for following the site and sticking with me through these last few lengthy posts. I’ve got to catch ya up on some events that have occurred since we got back home but I really wanted to get the New York trip complete before moving on. I’ve had my new Phenix Helmet blessed and we’re almost ready to put her into service. We also caught a little work today but you’ll have to wait until tomorrow for all the updates.

Until I get back…. Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 6, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11, 9/11 Memorial, Bronx New York, Captain Bob Ferrell, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Christine Sarracino, Engine Company 82, FDNY, FDNY Ceremonial Unit, FDNY Training Center, Fire Critic, fire helmets, Fire Hooks Unlimited, firefighter pics, Firefighter tools, firefighters, firefighting tools, Helmet Band, James Sorokac, Ladder 31, Lt. Ed Galiani, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, NYC, Randall's Island, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Taking “Brotherhood” to the FDNY and so much more …CONTINUED!

2 comments

This is “Part 2″ of my post on our latest visit to New York City and the FDNY. It’s continued form yesterday …

See PART 1 of this post by clicking HERE

So, we get to Hoboken’s Headquarters and Battalion Chief Greene is waiting to greet us. The City of Hoboken has some GREAT looking houses. They are old and you can tell. Some may say they look like crap or are “dumps” but I beg to differ. These houses hold history and tradition. THEY ARE HISTORY ! That’s why they are “houses” and not “stations”.

So anyway, the first thing Chief Greene does is shake my hand and give me a Challenge Coin!

He felt bad when I gave him a Brotherhood Chip the night before and caught him with empty pockets.

They didn’t sell beer in the firehouse so he bought me a cup of coffee ….LOL

Their coins look GREAT!

Actually, I can’t think of a coin Rhett or I have received that I thought didn’t look good. Some stand out a little more than others. Sometimes it where or who it came from while with others, it the engraving, logo or phrase on the coin.

Hoboken’s is solid all the way around.

Another example of how Department’s such as Hoboken and members such as Chief Greene “GET IT”.

PRIDE, HONOR, TRADITION, RESPECT and BROTHERHOOD !

I wish my Department had a coin. With everything else we brag on … we should!

So, we got a tour, ate some stale doughnuts (bagels..LOL) and shared a cup of coffee up in dispatch.

That was another cool thing about this house. It was a house … the Headquarters .. and their dispatch center! There was a retired Jake manning the dispatch console. If anyone had a question, they asked him (sorry … can’t remember his name).

That’s him sitting to the far left…working (that’s Battalion Chief Greene in the center).

I’m thinking… how cool is this? The dispatcher is retired from the job. Who better to fill this position?

Now, our guys and gals do a wonderful job but this Brother has an advantage. He knows what he’s hearing. He knows the job .. what we want, need and are asking for. Sounds too simple I guess?

Anyway, we were having a great visit.

Before long, Zach was in the Chief’s office working his magic. Next thing you know, Hoboken made a large purchase of MN8-FoxFire Products! These members are really going to be pleased and impressed! It’s also a great feeling for me, Zach and Rhett. We know what these products can do as far as giving us an extra “tool” for visibility, orientation and accountability! What an honor it is to be in a position to help or Brother and Sister Firefighters operate more safely !

THANKS to Chief Greene and the Hoboken FD for the hospitality ! We look forward to seeing you all again.

So, we left Hoboken Headquarters and wanted to celebrate.

I was looking for a bar to buy us all an ice cold beer.

Zach and Rhett ?? ….. well …. their minds were somewhere else …A BAKERY ?!?!?! WTF? ( No Chief “G” …NOT “Well Trained Firefighters” ..LOL )

Apparently, this place is famous or something. They have some kind of TV show or something where they cook a bunch of fancy cookies and cakes. The Cake Boss ? You can CLICK HERE to learn more.

I guess it’s kinda like the time when Rhett made us stop at some Jersey Shore place to look for Spookie (or whatever her name is). All I know is that Zach and Rhett were very excited to see the chair these people sit in to talk about cooking or whatever. Me??? not so excited but I do have to admit that it makes me feel good to see my two Brothers happy and excited so I guess it was worth the time to stop.

After their sugar fix, we got back to work. We loaded up and headed to Queens!

Our first stop was Rescue 4….AGAIN… MY EMOTIONS WOULD SURFACE.

I have often wrote about my good friend and Brother Captain Todd Stone and our travels to ride a long with the FDNY back “in the day”. Rescue 4 was a regular ride for us.

Being in this house, and even back the day before while in Rescue 2 with the roof hatches open; my thoughts often drift to a photo I have of Firefighter Pete Mclaughlin while riding R4.

Every run, Pete would stand on the side shelves with his head up through the roof hatch. Todd and I have some GREAT pictures in the back of that rig with Pete and many more of Rescue 4′s elite.I think of those times / rides often.

Firefighter Pete Mclaughlin was killed in The Line of Duty on October 8, 1995 just a week or so after our last ride with R4. He was caught in a flash over with collapse. Later, they would name a street in Queen in honor and memory of Pete. You can read a small related article by clicking HERE . WELL DONE BROTHER … continue to Rest in Peace and thanks again for the ride!

After leaving Rescue 4, we headed out to what used to be know in the FDNY as “Red Square” …. aka their “shops”.

The members called it “Red Square” because it’s an entire city block in size. That’s a New York City “block” and it was always surrounded on all 4 sides by broken down fire trucks … RED ones (hint..hint Swoope Vol. Fire Company, Roanoke County Fire / Rescue and more…LOL)

We got some UNBELIEVABLE tours here!

Shops, tool rooms etc … this place was HUGE! Not only was it big …. the folks inside seemed to know what they were doing / talking about ! IMAGINE THAT !

I was as excited as my wife and daughters get inside a Walmart … I was like a kid in a candy store (or Rhett and Zach in Carlo’s Bake Shop..LOL).

OMG this place was AMAZING !

The only place you’ll see as much or more apparatus in one place at the same time is at Firehouse Expo, FRI, FDIC or the like!

Tools???? Walls and WALLS … shelves on top of SHELVES full of em!

I know the FDNY is the largest in the world but all I’ve ever seen is one house etc at a time. I guess it took seeing the shops to actually realize the scope of what they have to deal with. They have more pieces out of service for repair than we do in service in the whole valley!

Anyway, I didn’t let em see me catch too many flies due to my mouth being wide open in awe and they gave us another fantastic tour. Rhett, Zach and I could sit and talk to members like the shop’s staff all day long .

We pulled out for a quick lunch on the go and headed out to the FDNY Training Center … THE ROCK ! Our day got even better.

TO BE CONTINUED …….

Read the 3rd and final part by clicking HERE

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 5, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, funding-staffing, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Captain Todd Stone, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Carlos Bake Shop, FDNY, FDNY LODD, FDNY Rescue 2, FDNY Rescue 4, FDNY shops, FDNY tool shop, FDNY's Red Square, Fire Critic, firefighter challenge coins, Firefighter Pete Mclaughlin, firefighter pics, firefighter traditions, firefighters, Hoboken Battalion Chief Greene, Hoboken Fire Department, Hoboken NJ, LODD, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, Queens NY, The Cake Boss, The Jersey Shore, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Taking “Brotherhood” to the FDNY and so much more!

5 comments

I knows it’s been a few days since my last post but I have to tell ya. Our trips here lately are so jam packed and emotional that, for me; it takes a couple days for everything to sink in. I want to try to absorb everything we experience before attempting to write about it. We do however try to keep everyone updated via our Face Book pages.

Click HERE then “Like” to follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book

This will take me a while to get out so it’s gonna a long one. I’ll spare you the pain and try to do it in 2 parts ….

Most of you know that our most recent trip had me, Rhett and Zach Green heading back to New York City. It started out as business and ended up being so much more (as it often does with the 3 of us). Zach called to tell me we needed to head back up and gave me the “high points” of our itinerary.

Once again, we would be stopping by FDNY’s famous Rescue 2 in Brooklyn. Read about our last visit to NYC and Rescue 2 by clicking HERE and HERE . I told Zach that there was NO WAY that we could go back into Rescue 2′s house empty handed after what happened to two of their members back on December 19th 2011.

Firefighters Weidmann and Gersbeck were critically injured while searching the upper floor of a brownstone fire in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Gersbeck was able to make the stairwell while Weidmann pushed through a wall of flame to reach an awaiting ladder on side “Alpha”. His unbelievable escape was caught on video… Click HERE to view the video .

Both of these members are still fighting to recover. They are fighting and suffering, their families are as well… emotionally, physically, psychologically, and financially. Rescue 2 set up a fund just for these situations … The Rescue 2 Mayday Fund. We knew right away what we needed to do .. raise some money for the fund!

We asked for donations and Zach offered to donate 50% of all online sales for the week (Mon-Mon) before our trip. Sattter 911, Bill Carey, Firefighter Nation, Fire / EMS Blog Network and MANY others helped in promoting the effort. It was a HUGE success!

Thanks to your efforts and support, Rhett, Zach and I handed over checks totaling more than $2,300.00 to Captain Liam Flaherty and the members of Rescue 2.

Captain Flaherty and his crew were VERY appreciative. We talked about all of the donations that have been making their way to the fund and how much each dollar counts. Not just each dollar into the fund … but every dollar out of your pocket. Captain Flaherty and the men of Rescue 2 understand how hard “times” are throughout the fire service and how difficult it is to give money away (donate) in these economic times. That’s what made these donations even more special … You most likely couldn’t afford it but you gave ANYWAY …That’s what BROTHERHOOD is all about.

I guess, in a way; we were able to show the men of Rescue 2 that the Brotherhood is alive and well… and not just in New York City. Knowing that a lot of you who donated were sacrificing something to do so (big or small) was very humbling. Again I say THANK YOU !

Keep in mind that Brothers Weidmann and Gersbeck (and their families) are not “out of the woods” yet. Firefighter Gersbeck is now recovering at home while Weidmann faces many more surgeries and extensive rehab (he was burnt over 54% of his body).

If you missed the chance to DONATE, you can still do so by clicking HERE

Photo by Lt Rhett Fleitz (FireCritic.com)

We got to spend some time at Rescue 2. The house and men within it are nothing short of AMAZING.

They had just placed their brand new rig .. a 2011 Ferrara into service on Saturday .. Liam said they were batting 700 … it already smelt like fire. We got the grand tour.

We also got to meet someone very special in my mind …Brendan Ielpi.

I had the honor of meeting Brendan’s father, Lee; back during our October 2011 visit. Lee Ielpi is a co-founder of the WTC Tribute Center and Chief Billy Goldfeder had arranged for him to give us a personal tour. It was one of the most emotional events of my life! I will never forgot the time I spent with Lee, and what he shared with us that day.

I still cry thinking about thinking about that visit. He kept a hand on me the entire time … a hand on my shoulder, clasping my hand into his or leading me by the arm and he was always looking me in the eyes. I can’t explain how it felt. How it feels still today. Somehow, for whatever reason; we forged a bond that day and it’s one I will carry for the rest of my life.

Read the post and learn more about Lee Ielpi by clicking HERE

Lee lost a son on September 11, 2011 at the World Trade centers. He and his other son Brendan went there that day to “do what they could”. They ended up looking (digging) for a son and brother, Jonathan; who responded in on FDNY’s Squad 288. Three months to the date, they found him but I don’t think Lee has ever “really” left.

Jonathan’s gear is now on display at The Tribute Center. Lee shared his story with us that day standing near that tribute (the gear). I can’t describe the COURAGE that must have taken. The HONOR, RESPECT and PRIDE.

Brendan was also on the job at the time of the attacks. He had traded some time and scheduled off to take a trip with some friends. After learning of the attacks, he picked up his father and responded into the City.

Now, just over 10 years later; Brendan is assigned to Rescue 2 and was pulling a tour when we stopped to visit. I could see his father in him and, for me; it brought back so much emotion. I understand the “father / son firefighters” relationship as my dad is also retired from the job. I don’t know why but I also feel as if us sons share some kind “bond”. As children, we’ve lived the life of a firefighter’s son. As adults, we spend our time trying to meet and live up to the expectations of 2nd generation firefighters who came behind such great men. I know that Lee is proud of Brendan and it was an HONOR to meet him.

You can learn more about the Brendan, Lee and some of what they went through and felt in those days, weeks, months and years since the attacks in a new book by Dennis Smith titled ”A Decade of Hope: Stories of Grief and Endurance from 9/11 Families and Friends” (Click the title for more info, exerts and purchasing) .

See more PHOTOS from our visit with FDNY’s Rescue 2 by clicking HERE

So, we headed back to the hotel to freshen up and would spend the rest of the evening in Hoboken, NJ.

I got pretty excited because Rhett and Zach decided we would eat at a topless restaurant. This trip was becoming more epic by the minute … Rescue 2, a Mayday Fund donation and now eating at a topless joint??? We need to go to New Jersey more often!

Turns out I think they were just teasing me cause this joint was REAL fancy and I didn’t see any topless women. Then when they brought the food out, it was just little teeny tiny portions and we all had to share. They laughed and told be it was “TOPAS” and not “topless” …LMAO. It was good food anyway.

And, turns out there was a firehouse right across the street.

These were some great men as well and we even got to meet their Battalion Chief.

He was there for a station / gear inspection but invited us in anyway. We had some great conversation and then I handed him one of our Brotherhood Chips.

Get you FireCritic / Ironfiremen.com Brotherhood Chip HERE

We took the chance to show the members some of the MN8-FoxFire Product line. Like everyone else who sees it for the first time, they were overtaken with “Glow Fever”.

The Chief was so excited that he invited us back to headquarters the next morning to meet the Chief!

Visit the Hoboken, NJ website by clicking HERE

The next morning, we stopped by a local bakery and bought some stale biscuits to take to the station … we try to never go into a firehouse empty handed. The members LOVED em! Rhatt and Zach called em bagels but they sure looked and felt like a stale biscuit or doughnut to me…LOL

TO BE CONTINUED ……

Now, see part 2 by clicking HERE and the 3rd and final part by clicking HERE

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 4, 2012 • Filed under: command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, funding-staffing, in-the-line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11, 9/11 attacks, A Decade of Hope, Brendan Ielpi, Brotherhood Chips, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Dennis Smith, FDNY, FDNY Captain Liam Flaherty, FDNY Rescue 2, FDNY Rescue 2 Mayday Fund, Ferrara Fire Equipment, Fire Critic, firefighter donations, firefighter Gersbeck, firefighter injuries, Firefighter Weidmann, Hoboken Fire Department, Hoboken NJ, injured firefighters, Jonathan Ielpi, Lee Ielpi, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 FoxFire, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, WTC Tribute Center, Zach Green

Archives for fdny

Read my post “We are all Climbing“

Grief.com, Recover from Grief.com , The Sweeney Alliance,Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, North American Firefighter Veteran Network

Follow this site on Face Book. Click HERE and “Like” the page!

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book Click HERE

Rhett gave his take on the issues in a previous post found HERE .

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book click HERE

Click HERE to check out Firefighter Product Review

Click HERE to have us review your product

Statter’s 5 yr post HERE

Read my post from that trip HERE

Read those posts HERE HERE and HERE

“When we climb, it is emotional. The feelings I have felt, the thoughts I have had, the emotions have been engraved in my mind. They are my tattoos.”

Read about our previous climbs HERE

Read Rhett’s post on our Climb HERE

Read The Fire Critic’s FDIC Wrap Up Part III

ALT KILT on Face Book HERE

Visit NM Coin Here

Find, Like and Follow us on Face Book HERE

You can also read a “FDIC Wrap up Part 1” post from Rhett

Click HERE to follow Firefighter Product Review on Face Book

Visit the National Firefighters Endowment HERE

Visit us in Booth #3026 !

Visit NM Coins HERE

Like and Follow on Face Book HERE

Visit Alt Kilt by clicking HERE

Follow Ironfiremen.com on FaceBook by clicking HERE then “Like”

Voting has begun for the 2012 Fire & EMS Blog of the Year !

Click HERE to review nominations and VOTE for the 2012 Fire & EMS Blogs of the Year

Click HERE for DETAILS, RULES and how to SUBMIT

.

Visit NM Coins web site HERE or find them on Face Book HERE

Check out their web site HERE or on Face Book HERE.

Find and “Like” Bob Gard on Face Book HERE

Contact us about speaking at your event by clicking HERE

Congratulations and WELL DONE Brothers!

Find and “like” Bobby Fulp on FaceBook by clicking HERE

Click HERE to follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book .. click “Like”

Click to see PART 1 and Part 2 of this post

Thanks to your efforts and support, Rhett, Zach and I handed over checks totaling more than $2,300.00 to Captain Liam Flaherty and the members of Rescue 2.

Read the post and learn more about Lee Ielpi by clicking HERE

This House WILL NEVER FORGET

Friend Us On Facebook

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Archives

Captain's Favorites

Tags Across FireEMSBlogs.com

FireEMSBlogs.com Community

Featured from across Fire/EMS