Firefighters to FDNY Capt.: We Do a Dangerous Job
The day The Post published FDNY Capt. Paul Washington’s comments to a group of potential recruits that firefighters “don’t run into burning buildings” (“Dangerous? Nah!” Aug. 27) was the 11th anniversary of firefighter Michael C. Reilly making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, less than two months after graduating from the academy.
Reilly ran into a burning building to uphold his oath to protect life and property and tragically lost his life, along with veteran Lt. Howard Carpluk, Jr.
Reilly was likely being paid far less than the $100,000-a-year salary Washington mentioned.
Perhaps it would’ve been more respectful for Washington to have said, “It’s an inherently dangerous job with modest compensation.” Noah Mueller Firefighter, Harlem Mahopac
It’s clear from Washington’s comments last March at The Borough of Manhattan Community College, and now posted on YouTube, that if the need arises for someone to run into a burning building, it sure won’t be him.
I’m sure all New Yorkers appreciate being forewarned. Charles Winokoor Falls River, Mass.
While yet again exposing his zeal to increase minority enrollment in the FDNY, Washington has stooped to a despicable low point.
His contemptible statements minimizing the dangers of firefighting in New York are an insult to the many members of the FDNY who have been injured or killed in the line of duty.
Perhaps Washington is more timid than most other firefighters and consequently avoided the perils of the work he was hired to do.
Washingston has a tendency to wail for an increase in minority firefighters, regardless of qualifications. But his deceit could bring a deadly outcome, even for those minorities he’s trying to help. James McCaffery Lt./FDNY (Ret.) Yonkers
Washington’s statements were some of the most ridiculous I’ve ever heard.
He thinks FDNY members don’t run into burning buildings? I guess Washington didn’t. If firefighters were called to a house fire, would we just stand outside?
Just because Washington only suffered one small burn doesn’t mean it’s not an extremely dangerous job.
I have seen FDNY members do very courageous things. Washington can speak for himself. Hugh M. Masterson Capt./FDNY (Ret.) East Meadow