One Hundred Years Ago- yesterday- The afternoon newspapers were filled with the harrowing stories of deadly smoke and the heroic firemen. Under extreme conditions they carried unconscious people hundreds of feet through the pitch black smoke filled subway tunnels to safety. Several men were singled out for their life saving actions including: Capt. Patrick Moran of Ladder 4, and Capt. James Sherlock of Ladder 2, both of whom were later awarded medals of valor. Also added to the Roll of Merit was Fireman James OReilly of Engine 23, who made trip after trip into the noxious smoke, carrying five unconscious women to safety. OReilly was overcome himself three times, was resuscitated with a pulmotor and received the Last Rites only to revive and re-enter the subway. After the fire Chief John Kenlon was tasked by the fire commissioner with devising a plan to better handle situations like this in the future. Previously, Kenlon had asked Honorary Chief Mainzer to research all the available new fire equipment in Europe to better serve the FDNY. Mainzer returned with smoke helmets and cutting torches. The plans for a new company fitted out with breathing apparatus and these special tools was launched. The call went out for volunteers to staff the new unit. Hundreds of men signed up. Kenlon and his staff began to hand-pick the officers and men for the new company. They also established the rigorous training program these men would undertake. A new company was about to be born. Kenlon decided to call the new unit- Rescue Company 1. Soon: The Origins of the Rescue.
Posted on: Wed, 07 Jan 2015 16:05:37 +0000
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