341. "I Was a Tourist" - Dave Russell

Quick with a one liner, Dave Russell can back them up with a story from his colorful career in the FDNY. This fourth generation firefighter knew early on that the FDNY was where he wanted to spend his time as a firefighter. Prior to being hired, he entered the Air Force pursuing firefighting. HAZMAT, ARFF and so many other disciplines, it was only a matter of time before the FDNY called. Leaving the Air Force early, he joined the ranks of the FDNY in 1985. Assigned to Engine 277, he cut his teeth working with mentors from the war years. These hard hitting firefighters lead the way and Dave quickly knew he made the right decision. Two short years later, Dave was involved in a collapse in which his MAYDAY caused him to ride the bench for a bit. Back at it, he went to HAZMAT for "a cup of coffee", then "Enhanced" Engine 41 before promoting to LT and landing at Engine 62 in the Bronx. During his colorful career, Dave would take spots all over the city to round out his experience. His words, "I was a tourist". On September 11, 2001, Dave was home and responded in upon learning of the tragedy unfolding. He worked the pile for six months, a time that has taken its' toll on the FDNY ever since. His quick wit and humor about the job has helped him along the way. The Brotherhood has kept him going for quite some time and he knows the importance of maintaining friendships. His love for the job has not slowed and in fact, he continues to teach and have some laughs with his buddies on and off the job.

[@stevedance3304]

Volunteer with Russell for 10 years great man

[@williambernhard]

Dave, Awesome stories. I used to buff the 28 Battalion in the 70s, going to the roof several buildings from the fire watching the truckies opening the roof. Got to experience some of those rubbish filling a stairwell in a vacant, ADVs, more than one fire in a school after the engines took up and we from the truck fighting the fire in a closet with the can, memories from my BFD days and the start of my fire career in Fairfield. Great memories of your Dad, running track 5th due while on duty at FFD Engine 1, Love you brother !!!!!

[@benjaminerskine9667]

Dave Russel is the greatest!

[@strikegoldshave]

Sys

[@robertgallo2355]

Seriously can’t even say how amazing captain Russell is or should I say master sergeant Russel , when were training you know he’s all about the men, safety, and how to do the job, and there’s always a story

[@KaleherMmk]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@miketritsas6782]

My father worked in ladder 38.eng.88 Raymond Camacho 7.div and 18.batt