A collection of unique photography for and about New York's Bravest

Please note that this site is in no way affiliated
with the FDNY, the Fire Department,
City of New York.

Michael Dick, a professional photographer, dedicated seven years to fire photography in preparation for the book "New York's Bravest - Their Lives on the Line" published in 1987. During this time he concentrated his efforts on Harlem and the South Bronx and created approximately five thousand color slides. In this book all the photographs were taken by Michael Dick and the text was written by Lt. Thomas Barry, L-42 (Ret.) Many of these photos were reproduced in black & white, this is the first time they are being shown in color. Some of the best of these were used in the book and many more will be showcased here. This was in the 1980s and the slide film used then has been replaced by a memory card in a digital camera. This technological advantage would have made photography a lot easier back then but it seems that things always seem to be changing.

There have been numerous changes in the equipment used to fight fires, too. These include new engines, rear mounts, tower ladders and rescues. There were also advancements made in personal equipment such as bunker gear, Scott Air-Paks, handheld thermal imaging cameras and the partner saw.Some items remain basically the same, however, and the pike pole, 2.5 gallon water fire extinguisher (for the can man), flathead axe and the Halligan bar (set of irons) are much the same today as they were then.

In spite of all the changes that have taken place in the last 25 years the dedication level of the members of the FDNY remains the same.It is in their honor, and memory, that these photographs are presented to you.