HUGH BONNER MEDAL

Fireman 3rd Grade Thomas F. Fitzpatrick, Jr.

Ladder Co. 38  

Also awarded the 

"JOSEPH REICH MEMORIAL FUND "

(Cash Award $250.00)

Fire at 4619 Park Avenue, Bronx. Box 75-4762, 1031 hours, February 9, 1970. 4 story brick, N.F.P., Multiple Dwelling.

       Deputy Chief Kirby was out of quarters supervising Field Inspection Duty, near the location of the fire, when he received the box number by radio. Flames were shooting out of a large bay window of a first floor apartment. It was immediately apparent to Deputy Chief Kirby that the fire was in the later stages during which flashover occurs in this type of occupancy. Arriving moments before other units, he entered the premises and was informed by a Mr. Forseca that his infant daughter was still in the front room. Mr. Forseca had escaped from the rear rooms with two other children moments earlier.  

Ladder Co. 38 arrived and was informed that an infant was still in the apartment. Acting quickly, Fireman Fitzpatrick leaped for the first floor window sill. Placing one foot on a stone facing that was protruding from the front of the building, he lifted himself upward and virtually drove himself through the large lower glass frame and entered the room. Stepping onto a bed which was flaming, he kicked it forward, fell to the floor and crawled swiftly between another large bed and burning furniture. Spotting the infant he rushed to the crib, raised himself through the upper heated air and In an erect position snatched the child into his arms.  

At this moment, Fireman Freder, Ladder Co. 38, had also climbed into the room. With him he carried a portable extinguisher intending to use it to cover the rescue attempt. But even before he had a chance to use it, Fireman Fitzpatrick rushed to the window with the infant and all three made their escape through the window. Within seconds after all had left the room, itburst into flames spewing fire and smoke from the windows.  

Once in the street, the child was given. mouth-to-mouth resuscitation by Fireman Freder The unfortunate child was then rushed to Fordham Hospital in critical condition having suffered bums on 80% of her body. Fireman Fitzpatrick was also removed to the hospital for treatment of 1st degree bums about the face  

In accomplishing this rescue, Fireman Fitzpatrick displayed raw courage, agility, and extreme determinatlon under the most hazardous conditions. His actions are indeed a credit to himself, his company officers, and the department that trained him.