Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal

Firefighter Thomas Irizarry
Ladder Company 51
October 7, 2003, 1545 hours, Box 75-3692, 1165 226th Drive, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on February 4, 1996. Previously assigned to Ladders 29 and 61 and Engine 54. Cited for bravery twice previously.

Ladder 51 apparatus. photo by Joe Pinto

On the afternoon of October 7, 2003, as the nation waited to see if The Terminator would become The Governator and the New York Yankees were embroiled in an intense league championship series against the Boston Red Sox, FF Thomas Irizarry and the members of Ladder 51 had far more important events to occupy their time and thoughts.

At approximately 1545 hours, the members of Ladder 51/Engine 38, known as The Dawg House, were called to a report of a fire on the first floor at 1165 226th Drive, a three-story, fireproof multiple dwelling in the Eastchester section of the Bronx. En route, Bronx Dispatch notified Ladder 51 that there were reports of people trapped in apartment 1C.

Arriving at the scene, Ladder 51 transmitted a 10-75 signal. The inside team--made up of FFs Irizarry (can) and Steven Kwintner (irons) and Captain Brian Healy--entered the building. Reaching the apartment and finding it unlocked, the members donned their masks and entered to search for possible victims. Simultaneously, the members of Engine 38 were stretching a hose-line to knock down the fire.

As the team entered the apartment to begin their search, they were confronted with a high heat condition and zero visibility. While FF Kwintner crawled to his right, FF Irizarry and Captain Healy proceeded left, down the apartment corridor. Moving quickly down the 30-foot expanse of hallway, FF Irizarry found a fire in the rear bedroom. He immediately opened up with the can to push back the flames to continue his search.

Staying low and moving in under the fire, the Firefighter found the victim’s arm. Pushing deeper into the burning room, he was able to see that the elderly victim, David Forsyth, had severe burns to his legs and was not breathing. Captain Healy issued a 10-45 signal and ordered FF Kwintner to assist by taking the can to provide FF Irizarry cover.

With the fire now rolling over his head, FF Irizarry single-handedly dragged Mr. Forsyth into the hallway. At this point, FF Kwintner joined him and together, they dragged the victim out of the smoke-filled hallway and into the building lobby. When Mr. Forsyth was safely in the lobby, other FDNY members provided first aid before he was removed to Our Lady of Mercy Hospital. He was diagnosed with smoke inhalation.

Acting Deputy Chief William Beyer stated in his report that the actions of FF Irizarry involved an act of personal bravery with initiative and capability.

In recognition of this selfless act, the New York City Fire Department is proud to honor FF Thomas Irizarry today and present him with the Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal.--DH

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