Tonight’s guest is Ret. FDNY Chief of Special Operations Command John Norman.
John has more than 50 years of experience with the fire service. He is also the author of the riveting memoir “Working With Giants,” which is about his life, as well as the mentors he served alongside. John’s book is a reminder that the people that we try to emulate or aspire to become didn’t get to where they are today by themselves. They had mentors, coaches, and leaders in their lives that supported and guided their potential into greatness.
Episode 45 (Part 1) History Highlights:
1. Family lineage of US military service in World War II as well as within the fire service.
2. Mentors at Inwood Fire Department (NY) and the meaning behind "sucking nails out of the floorboards."
3. History of Engine 290 in Brooklyn and its legendary reputation as one of the busiest fire companies in the world.
4. An in-depth discussion covering the history of Rescue Companies within the FDNY.
5. Peer-to-peer mentoring at Rescue 3
6. Tools and equipment of the job including entry tools, the Lyle gun, and lifesaving ropes.
7. Legendary reputation of Rescue 2 and the so-called War Years.
8. Mentors at Rescue 2, including Ray Downey, then a captain, who pioneered the formation of the 28 Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces strategically emplaced around the country to respond to catastrophic events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and terrorist attacks. (Can listen Ray's son, Joe, who later became FDNY's Chief of SOC on Episode 10).
Follow John on Instagram: @chiefnormanfdny
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