In fall 2010, the FDNY officially placed the Fire Fighter into reserve status, ending her 72 year active career with the FDNY (the longest serving fireboat to date). A group was formed with the intent of preserving her and in October of 2012 the boat was officially retired and ownership was transferred to the fireboat Fire fighter museum. In Feburary of this year the boat was moved from the FDNY pier in Brooklyn to its current home in Greenport Long Island.

Very very little has changed on this boat from when it was launched. She is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a National Landmark.

The other day myself, the owner of the LV Tug Cornell, as well as several volunteers took the boat out just to keep it loose. One of the former engineers from years back led the way, and we just provided some current day Cleveland knowledge to make sure things went smooth.



While she does look rough on the outside (2 years un-maintained in a salt environment will do that), the inside is in great condition and is fully operational.


The Fighter also has what are likely the ONLY operational, Cleveland 16-248 engines out there. When the boat was being designed, they were still dealing with Winton, and the then Winton 248. I imagine when the boat was being built is when Winton became EMD and Cleveland Diesel Division was born. These engines are in great shape, and started right up with no issues at all. I must say though, I dont like the layshaft location, but thats another issue....

I have more photos here, as well as a short video for those interested.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/12bridge/s ... 291697176/

The group is actively seeking volunteers and donations, there website is:
http://fireboatfirefighter.org/

There is also another NYC FDNY fire boat preserved, the John J. Harvey.

She is operational and is powered by 5 FM 8 cylinder 38 F5 OP engines.

http://www.fireboat.org/index.php

Hal Reiser
MP30 Hudson Div.