| Firefighter John Burnside of Ladder 20 was 36 years old. and a 7-year FDNY veteran. He was a NYC police officer for 3 years while waiting for his chance to join the FDNY. “Johnny the Gent” told his wife: “How many people do you know who are truly satisfied and fulfilled in the profession they choose? I am, and that’s a gift.” He was actively preparing to take the Lieutenant’s exam. A fellow firefighter called him “mistake-free.” “When you checked in the morning and you knew John was working, it was going to be a good day.” |