MyFDNY News: March 2026

MyFDNY NEWS

THE FDNY COMMEMORATES THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MERGER WITH NEW YORK CITY EMS

The FDNY marked 30 years since it merged with New York City EMS with a special event on March 16 at the EMS Academy at Fort Totten.

Three decades ago—on March 17, 1996—two storied institutions became one, creating the most sophisticated emergency medical system in the world. The merger transformed the FDNY into the world’s premier all-hazards response agency, effectively bringing an emergency room to New York City sidewalks, roadways, the subway system, businesses, homes and everywhere in between.

“It’s a pleasure to gather here today to recognize the extraordinary lifesaving medical work performed by the members of our Department and to mark an important milestone in FDNY history. Thirty years ago, the EMS and FDNY merger brought together two proud workforces with a shared mission: protecting life. The impact of that partnership has been extraordinary,” FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said. “As I look

COMMISSIONER LILLIAN BONSIGNORE COMMENDS THE FIRST RESPONDERS WHO BRAVED THE 2026 BLIZZARD IN NEW YORK CITY

MARCH 2026

FDNY’S OFFICIAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION HONORS SEPTEMBER 11TH WITH FIRST-EVER FDNY FOUNDATION NEVER FORGET

The FDNY and the FDNY Foundation hosted the first-ever Never Forget Memorial Scholarship Ceremony on Feb. 26 inside the Commissioner Robert O. Lowery More on Page 2

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THE FDNY COMMEMORATES THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MERGER WITH NEW YORK CITY EMS

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toward the next 30 years, I am more than optimistic. I am determined. We have accomplished so much, but our evolution isn’t over. We will continue to modernize and innovate and to fight for the resources and the professional respect that every member of this Department deserves. We have proven what we can do together; now let’s focus on what we can achieve next.”

Chief of EMS Operations Paul Miano added: “Today, we mark the 30th anniversary of one of the most significant moments in

At the FDNY, we never forget. That’s why every class of probationary EMTs visits the 9/11 Memorial & Museum ahead of their graduation from the EMS Academy. It’s a reminder of the Supreme Sacrifice our members made.

Follow FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore on

the history of emergency response in New York City. Anniversaries like this give us the chance to pause and reflect. To bring together two large public safety systems was not simple. It required leadership, patience and a willingness from thousands of firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and officers to come together and build something stronger. It meant learning from one another, recognizing each other's value and understanding that while our roles may differ, our mission is the same.”

Over the last 30 years, FDNY EMS has added 24 stations and four additional divisions across the five boroughs. The Department has equipped its EMTs and paramedics with the highest level of personal protective equipment and has replaced old stretchers with state-of-the-art mechanical stretchers.

To keep up with the evolving needs of emergency medicine, the FDNY also launched the elite Rescue Paramedic Program, Haz-Tac Units and Mobile Respiratory Treatment Units. n

Go beyond MyFDNY News: A look back at 30 years of FDNY EMS since the merger on March 17, 1996.

THE FDNY’S OFFICIAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION HONORS SEPTEMBER 11TH WITH FIRST-EVER FDNY FOUNDATION NEVER FORGET MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

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Auditorium at Department headquarters in Brooklyn.

The inaugural scholarship ceremony honors the enduring legacy of the Department’s leadership and officers killed in the line of duty on September 11, 2001, and pays tribute to all those lost that day and those who have since died of illnesses related to the rescue and recovery efforts.

Each scholarship awarded to active FDNY members carries the name and legacy of one of the fallen heroes, ensuring their memory continues to inspire future generations of FDNY members.

“The future of our Department is shaped by education, training and a constant desire to be better,” FDNY

Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said at the ceremony. “I want to

thank the FDNY Foundation. These scholarships have a profound impact on all the recipients and on the future of the FDNY. By investing in our people, you are investing in the safety of our city and the strength of this Department for generations to come. Congratulations to all of today’s recipients.”

“Of all the things we do at the FDNY Foundation, what we are here to do today—to help further the higher education of our members—is undoubtedly one of the most gratifying,” FDNY Foundation

Chairman Matthew J. DiLiberto said. “Your character—and the desire that you have to challenge yourself and advance your career in this Department while simultaneously doing an incredibly dangerous job—is what makes this Department so strong today and ensures that it will be strong for generations to come.”

With these scholarships, the FDNY Foundation, the official nonprofit organization of the FDNY, supports Department members who are pursuing continuing education—a critical step in professional growth and advancement within the FDNY. This first-of-its-kind ceremony establishes a lasting tradition that links education, service and remembrance as the Department approaches the 25th anniversary of September 11th. n

At a special event on March 16, the Department commemorated the 30th anniversary of the merger of New York City Health and Hospitals and the FDNY— when two storied institutions became one.

As a powerful winter storm blanketed New York City with heavy snow, high winds and low visibility on Feb. 23, the FDNY’s first responders remained at the ready to answer calls and keep New Yorkers safe, operating around the clock during the 2026 blizzard.

“Our members, as they always do, showed extraordinary dedication and professionalism. We know the sacrifice it requires—it means extra shifts, freezing temperatures and time away from their own families to protect this city,” FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said. “We see that dedication, and we do not take it for granted. When the elements are at their worst, the FDNY is at its best.”

Chief of Department John Esposito said: “Thank you to our firefighters and EMS members who operated in whiteout conditions. Thank you to our dispatchers who were the calm voice in the chaos. Thank you to our fire marshals, officers and civilian staff who ensured we continued operating, no matter how many inches of snow fell.”

Throughout the storm, the FDNY offered

website. To

FDNY

Women’s History Month 2026

Throughout the FDNY's history, women have played vital roles in protecting and serving the people of New York City. Their strength, resilience and unwavering dedication are at the heart of the Department's mission to protect lives and property. In honor of Women's History Month, we asked our female members what fuels their passion for the job, what keeps them going in the toughest moments and what inspires them to serve. Their words reflect the courage, determination and deep commitment that define the FDNY.

Women’s History Month2026

L auren J udson

B attalion C hief C haunde L h omer

P aramedi C al S C oordinator

h uiyun (W innie ) T seng

C ontraC t a nalyS t B ureau of f i SC al S ervi C e S

“

I consider myself very fortunate to have had this opportunity and to work my way up through the ranks. It's an intangible gift to do this kind of work.

“ “ ”

I'm one of the lucky people who gets to do this job. I consider myself very fortunate to have had this opportunity and to work my way up through the ranks. I truly enjoy coming to work— working alongside the people I serve with—and being part of the FDNY family.

I've always had an interest in patient care since I was a little girl. ... In the toughest moments, when everyone else might be running away, but we have to do our job, I focus on the patient. I remind myself that this person isn't just a patient—they're someone's son, daughter or grandmother. Thinking about that helps me push through and focus on what I can do for them in that moment. It's an intangible gift to do this kind of work.

The FDNY relies on these services to serve the public effectively. Being able to help bridge these goals—fairness, efficiency and quality service—makes the work both challenging and rewarding, and it motivates me to keep serving.

”

I'm inspired by the impact behind the work we do. Procurement may be complex, but it plays an important role in ensuring public funds are spent fairly and responsibly while also creating opportunities for businesses and supporting communities. At the same time, the FDNY relies on these services to serve the public effectively. Being able to help bridge these goals—fairness, efficiency and quality service—makes the work both challenging and rewarding, and it motivates me to keep serving.

P am m adoo

C u S tomer S ervi C e

C enter m anager

B ureau of f ire P revention

I live by the belief that life isn't measured by what you take, but by what you give back.

”

s heena J ohnson

emt em S d i SPatC h

What fuels my passion for this job is my ability bring my own personal morals and values into my professional life.

V anessa B rady

em S C a P tain

I started this job at 18 years old, and it has given me opportunities I never imagined, which continues to fuel my passion for this job.

I'm proud to have created the first FDNY Business Customer Service Center, giving a voice to the public and supporting our FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention members. Showing up for my team each day is a privilege, and I live by the belief that life isn't measured by what you take, but by what you give back.

What fuels my passion for this job is my ability bring my own personal morals and values into my professional life. What keeps me going is being a New Yorker—being exposed to everything the city has to offer and being a willing participant because I did sign up for this job.

I started this job at 18 years old, and it has given me opportunities I never imagined, which continues to fuel my passion for this job. I met my husband while working as a paramedic, and this career has helped provide for my family, has given me my home, my education and invaluable life experience.

FDNY

Celebrating Women’s History Month

This Women’s History Month, the FDNY is proud to recognize the extraordinary women across our Department who serve New York City with compassion, determination, strength and resilience.

From firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics to dispatchers, fire inspectors, and all the support staff supporting our mission behind the scenes, women play a vital role in protecting life and property across the five boroughs.

Every day, women in the FDNY are helping to move our Department forward and break new ground. They are challenging norms, pushing limits and serving as a powerful example of what is possible for the next generation of women in the FDNY.

During Women’s History Month, we celebrate their achievements and know the path they’ve paved is making way for all the women following behind.

FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore

(1) The latest class of probationary EMTs had Family Day on March 8. It’s a proud day for our probies, who welcomed their family and friends to the EMS Academy at Fort Totten to get a glimpse of the skills they learned over 13 weeks. (2) On March 8, FDNY officials attended the 8th Annual Glitz-Glam-Give Brunch in honor of Women’s History Month. The yearly event raises money for organizations that help care for sick first responders. The FDNY thanks the Department’s Family Assistance Unit for organizing an event that continues to give back to those who need it most. (3) Friday night lights at Madison Square Garden! FDNY Boxing faced off against first responders from around the world in the 2026 International Battle of the Badges. Members threw p unches in bunches to protect the Department’s shield and raise money for charitable organizations. (4) The FDNY Phoenix Society proudly celebrated the Year of the Horse by marching in the Lunar New Year Parade on March 1 in Manhattan. (5) On March 2, FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore and Chief of Department John Esposito swore in the latest class of probationary firefighters at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island. The probies will undergo rigorous training in all aspects of firefighting over the next 18 weeks. (6) The FDNY proudly marched in the 265th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17 in Manhattan. n

MEET CAPTAIN DIANE RIVAS, EMS STATION 47

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

My name is Diane Rivas. I am an EMS captain, and I joined FDNY in 2006.

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

I am currently assigned to Station 47 in Queens. My responsibilities as captain are to provide guidance and supervision to my members and to serve as an operational and administrative resource.

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

I have always been drawn to a career where I could make a direct, meaningful impact on people’s lives. Growing up in New York, I saw firsthand how the FDNY represents courage, teamwork and dedication in the community. The idea of being part of that—responding to people’s worst moments and helping them through it—has always inspired me.

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

Becoming a rescue paramedic was the most memorable and defining moment of my career. It allowed me to further my skills as a paramedic and help others in their most critical times of need. I had always admired the courage and skill of those who served before me, and the moment I earned my place among them, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude.

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

I am reminded that I’m not just representing myself; I am representing every person who has ever worn this uniform, every life we’ve touched and every member of this city who looks to us in their time of need.

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

My superpower is staying calm and focused in high-pressure situations. In this line of work, chaos can strike at any moment, but I’ve learned that a steady presence can anchor an entire team. I am able to think clearly, communicate effectively and make sound decisions even when the stakes are high.

7. How does your role help advance the FDNY’s mission of public safety?

As an FDNY EMS captain, I help advance the Department’s mission of public safety by leading and supporting the teams who are first on scene when New Yorkers need help the most. My job is to make sure our members are trained, prepared and confident to handle any emergency, from everyday medical calls to large-scale incidents. Building strong communication, teamwork and trust with members because that directly translates into better care and safer outcomes for the public. n

THE SEEDS OF FDNY EMS CONTINUE TO GROW: DEPARTMENT PLANTS TREE TO MARK 30 YEARS OF MERGER BETWEEN NYC EMS AND THE FDNY

To help commemorate the 30th anniversary of the merger between New York City EMS and the FDNY, the Department planted a tree at the EMS Academy at Fort Totten with a plaque that reads: “THE SEEDS OF FDNY EMS CONTINUE TO GROW — This tree was planted in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the merger of New York City EMS and the Fire Department, City of New York on March 17, 1996.” n

podcast highlights

THE WRAP

The current class of probationary EMTs visited the 9/11 Memorial & Museum on March 9. It’s a tradition for each class before graduating from the EMS Academy and a reminder of the sacrifice, the responsibility and the legacy the probies will now carry forward. n