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FDNY COMMISSIONER LILLIAN BONSIGNORE SWEARS IN KEY DEPARTMENT LEADERS: FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER DANIEL FLYNN, CHIEF OF STAFF FABRICIO CARO

FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore made two appointments to her executive staff on Feb. 4, swearing in First Deputy Commissioner Daniel Flynn and Chief of Staff Fabricio Caro at a ceremony inside the Commissioner Robert O. Lowery Auditorium at Department headquarters in Brooklyn.

“Today is a day about leadership, trust and responsibility that comes with serving the greatest fire department in the world,” Commissioner Bonsignore said. “Both of these leaders represent the very best of public service, professionalism and a commitment to getting things done.”

First Deputy Commissioner Flynn, the second highest ranking civilian administrator in the Department, will manage the day-to-day operations and

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BONSIGNORE SWEARS IN KEY DEPARTMENT LEADERS: FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER DANIEL FLYNN, CHIEF OF STAFF FABRICIO CARO

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activities of the FDNY across all offices and bureaus. He joined the FDNY in 2005, beginning his career at Ladder Company 114 in Brooklyn. He worked there until being promoted to fire marshal in 2009. He was later promoted to lieutenant, then supervising fire marshal, before becoming the FDNY’s Chief Fire Marshal in April 2021.

During his nearly five years overseeing the Department’s Bureau of Fire Investigation, Flynn was instrumental in identifying the growing dangers of lithium-ion batteries across New York City and helped shape the FDNY’s response to the ever-present hazard.

“Public service has defined my career and reinforced something I have always believed: This work matters.

What we do every single day has real impact, and it truly makes New York City safer and stronger,” First Deputy Commissioner Flynn said. “Together, we will honor the incredible legacy of this department while facing new challenges head-on with integrity, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to service.”

Chief of Staff Caro will be responsible for providing strategic guidance and management for special projects

On Feb. 3, I joined the FDNY Foundation and Department officials at WABC7’s 28th Annual “Operation 7: Save a Life.” The annual special is devoted to increasing public awareness about

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Bonsignore provided a comprehensive look at how the FDNY is adapting to meet the evolving needs of New York City, from strengthening its workforce and supporting member wellness to ensuring emergency resources are available when they are needed most.

“We have lots to do. Our Department is the greatest fire department in the world, but we have things that we have to solve. We have to keep up with this growing city around us,” Commissioner Bonsignore said.

Highlighting the more than 1.6 million medical calls the FDNY responds to each year, Commissioner Bonsignore said the Department will educate the public on making informed decisions that help keep the city’s emergency response system running effectively.

and initiatives. He joined the FDNY in 2012 and has held several executive roles, including Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Community Affairs. Since 2024, Caro served as the Executive Director of Public Engagement, overseeing the FDNY’s Community Affairs and Youth Workforce portfolio. He managed operations involving engagement with New York City Community Boards, partnerships with community- and faith-based organizations, youth pipeline and workforce development initiatives, and the Department’s fire and life safety education outreach efforts.

“The FDNY is more than an agency. It’s an institution built on courage, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to the people of this city,” Chief of Staff Caro said. “As Chief of Staff, my commitment is simple and firm— to support our leadership and every member of this Department so they can do their job safely and effectively; to help this Department continue evolving while never losing sight of its core values; and to keep community at the heart of our work, not as a concept, but as a practice.” n

“We need to engage in public education about how to

use 911. It is a finite number of resources, and we are being outrun by the call volume,” Commissioner Bonsignore said. “The call volume leads to higher response times—it's a cascading event.”

Commissioner Bonsignore, who joined the FDNY as an EMT and rose through the ranks during her 31-year uniformed career, emphasized the Department’s ongoing efforts to attract the next generation of members and retain those already here.

“There are heroes all around us, and we have to make sure we find them,” she said. “We have to strengthen the pipelines that we have to the FDNY from every angle, from every corner of every community.”

For more information and to support the FDNY Foundation, the official nonprofit organization of the Department, visit FDNYFoundation.org. n

DEPARTMENT WELCOMES THIRD CLASS OF 2025 PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS TO ITS RANKS

The FDNY welcomed its third class of 2025 probationary firefighters at a graduation ceremony on Feb. 11 at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn.

“When you walk out of those doors today, the world will look at you differently. When a New Yorkers sees the FDNY patch on your shoulder, they don’t see a stranger. They see hope. They see the person who is going to make the worst day of their life OK again,”

FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said during her remarks to the graduates. “You are the one to go in when everyone else is coming out. You are the one to hold the line between this city and chaos. Carry that badge with the humility of a servant and the heart of a lion.”

Chief of Department John Esposito said: “This job will challenge

you physically, mentally and emotionally. But you will never face it by yourself. You are now part of the team—part of a family that stands together no matter what. Congratulations on earning your place. We are looking forward to the great things you will do.”

Over the course of 18 weeks at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall’s Island, the probies trained in all aspects of firefighting, including fire suppression and medical response, hazardous materials, collapse and confined space rescues, auto extrication, building inspections and procedures for engine and ladder operations.

The probationary firefighters will be assigned to firehouses throughout New York City, where they will gain valuable field experience under the guidance of senior firefighters and officers. n

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(1) The FDNY held a graduation ceremony for its newest fire protection inspectors on Feb. 9 inside the Commissioner Robert O. Lowery Auditorium at Department headquarters in Brooklyn. The FDNY’s Bureau of Fire Prevention is tasked with preventing fire conditions by enforcing the Fire Code and inspecting buildings, small businesses, schools and construction sites. Inspectors are the first line of defense in preventing fires across the fire boroughs. (2) Harsh conditions demand precise training. On Feb. 3, FDNY members participated in an ice rescue drill. Over the last few weeks, the FDNY has responded to multiple water and ice rescues. The Department reminds New Yorkers to stay off ice. (3) Prior to graduating, the latest class of the FDNY’s probationary firefighters visited the 9/11 Memorial and Museum on Feb. 4. It is a tradition the Department does with every class to uphold its promise to never forget. (4) FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore, Chief of Department John Esposito and other Department officials joined the FDNY Foundation at WABC7’s 28th Annual “Operation 7: Save a Life.” The annual special is devoted to increasing public awareness about fire safety, as well as home hazards and the importance of planning for emergencies. (5) On Jan. 27, FDNY members hit the slopes at Hunter Mountain for the 51st Annual FDNY Firefighters Ski Race. Proceeds from the event benefited the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation. (6) Whether you have two hands or four paws, FDNY members are there to help all New Yorkers. On Feb. 4, members of EMS and fire operations helped rescue a cat during a 2-alarm fire. n

1. Please introduce yourself—your name, your title and the year you joined the FDNY.

My name is Cameron Crayton, and I joined the FDNY in 2013 as an EMT in Harlem. In 2018, I was promoted to firefighter and assigned to Engine 59, proudly known as “The Harlem Zoo.” After six years of service there, I transferred to the Special Operations Command (SOC), where I was assigned to Squad 270 “Strictly Business.”

2. Where are you currently assigned, and what are your main responsibilities?

I am currently assigned to Squad 270 in South Queens, a Special Operations Command unit specializing in technical rescues, hazardous materials incidents and confined space emergencies, while also responding to fires and medical emergencies.

3. What inspired you to choose a life of public service with the FDNY?

My desire to become a firefighter was inspired by my uncle and reinforced by the example set by my parents, whose lives were dedicated to public service. For me, this profession is far more than a career—it is purpose. Each day brings fulfillment through the camaraderie of my second family at the firehouse, the challenges of the job and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

4. Can you share one of your most memorable moments on the job?

Throughout my years with the Department, I have experienced many memorable moments, but one stands out. While I was assigned to Engine 59, our company responded to an incident involving a male who had been struck by a train. Working alongside the members of Ladder 30, we were able to successfully rescue the victim and save his life. For our actions that day, Engine 59 received a unit citation in recognition of our teamwork in their treatment of the aided victim.

5. When you hear the words “We Are FDNY,” what does that mean to you?

When I hear the phrase “We Are FDNY,” it represents unity, brotherhood and shared purpose. It signifies that we stand together, aligned in mission and commitment, ready to overcome any challenge that comes our way.

6. What would you say is your “superpower”—a strength or skill you bring to your work?

While I do not view myself as possessing a particular superpower, I believe I bring to the Department a combination of quick problem-solving skills, composure under pressure and a strong work ethic. In my current role as a firefighter within a squad company, I take great pride in advancing the FDNY’s mission of public safety. The extensive training we receive through SOC schools equips us to fill critical roles on the fireground, support our fellow firefighters and serve the people of New York City with skill and precision.

7. How does your role help advance the FDNY’s mission of public safety? It is a profound honor to serve as a firefighter and to be a member of the FDNY. This is not only my dream profession but also a symbol of hope for the citizens we protect. When New Yorkers see a red fire truck approaching, they know that help has arrived. I am proud to continue the Department’s long-standing legacy of bravery, brotherhood and service—both on and off the job. n

FDNY UNVEILS ITS LATEST ‘WE ARE FDNY’ CAMPAIGN, CELEBRATING THE FACES AND THE STORIES BEHIND THE DEPARTMENT’S MISSION

MEET FIREFIGHTER CAMERON CRAYTON, SQUAD 270 THE

The FDNY unveiled its latest “We Are FDNY” poster campaign on Feb. 12, shining a spotlight on the diverse backgrounds, experiences and roles that power the New York City Fire Department. The poster features 24 members from across the FDNY’s bureaus and units—representing firefighters, EMS members, dispatchers, inspectors, analysts and civilians who keep New York City safe every day. Scan the QR code to see the poster and read the members’ stories. n

podcast highlights

ISLAND

On Feb. 7,

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the latest class of FDNY probationary firefighters invited their friends and family to the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island to show them everything they learned over 18 weeks of training. n

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In studio with FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore

“Discipline and consistency.” Join FDNY Podcast for January 2026

Throwback FDNY to 1942, when a luxury cruise ship being converted into a military troop transport had a fire that resulted in one of the most dramatic shoreline catastrophes in New York history

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FDNY PROMOTES FIRE OPERATIONS MEMBERS AT CEREMONY ON STATEN

The FDNY promoted members of fire operations at a Feb. 17 ceremony on Staten Island. Members were promoted to the following ranks: Battalion Chief, Captain and Lieutenant. Watch the promotion ceremony and check out a photo gallery by scanning the QR code. n

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