At a commemorative 9/11 Bell Ringing Ceremony, the Black Fire Brigade paid tribute to the sacrifices of Black firefighters, including 12 FDNY Vulcan Society members who perished during the attacks (Photo Credit: Marshelle Sanders).
The Black Fire Brigade is crucial to ensuring the sacrifices of Black firefighters are not forgotten. They also help young people see firefighting as a noble profession with genuine career potential.
On Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 8 a.m., the Black Fire Brigade held an official 9/11 Bell Ringing Ceremony at 5349 S. Wabash at the renovated African American Firefighters Museum. The event honored the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who responded to the 9/11 attacks.
Among those fallen heroes were 12 members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Black Vulcan Society, a group founded in 1940 to address discrimination within the department.
“We must remember the often-overlooked contributions of Black firefighters who gave their lives on that fateful day.” – New York Fire Marshall John Coombs
The Black firefighters who perished from the Vulcan Society include Gerard Baptiste, Vernon Cherry, Tarel Coleman, Andre Fletcher, Keith Glascoe, Ronnie Henderson, William Henry, Karl Joseph, Keithroy Maynard, Vernon Richard, Shawn Powell and Leon Smith Jr.
The guest speakers were Fire Marshall John Coombs, rapper Masta Ace, hailing from New York City, Illinois State Representative for the 31st District Michael Crawford and Chicago rapper Rhymefest.
The Black Fire Brigade is a not-for-profit organization that recruits, trains and provides employment opportunities to African Americans ages 18-30 who want to become medical technicians and firefighters.
During the ceremony, Black Fire Brigade Executive Director Terri Winston was honored by her colleagues, students and coworkers. Although much of what happens in this building may go unnoticed, Winston was recognized for her contributions, which are fundamental to the Brigade’s success.
Also recognized was Mr. James Winbush, founding member of the African American Firefighters and Paramedics League of Chicago
Winston stated in the process of becoming a recruit for the Black Fire Brigade, “We recruit individuals, send them to school, and they undergo EMT training for four months. By the fifth month, they obtain their national certification and are automatically employed, meaning they’re not job-hunting but working with the company where they trained.
From there, we support their progression to become firefighters, police officers or paramedics. The training is intensive, but they commit two years to the program. With a base salary of $72,000, they secure employment for life—all without needing a college degree.”
Ultimately, the Brigade helps young people recognize firefighting as a noble profession with genuine career potential.
Also, during the ceremony, New York rapper Masta Ace reflected on 9/11 and noted the significant media focus on the Black firefighters during that time.
“I vividly recall being in Brooklyn on that day in 2001, and my wife, Shay, was at work. The media coverage of Black firefighters’ sacrifices seemed insufficient at the time, and I believe there needs to be greater emphasis on such careers in inner cities. This profession should be highlighted as a viable career path for young people, providing an alternative to traditional routes,” Ace said.
State Rep. Michael Crawford added, “Although I am not officially in office, I appreciate the opportunity to speak. Today, we honor those who sacrificed their lives on 9/11 and those who continue to feel its impact. The Black Fire Brigade’s work is commendable, providing training that respects the legacy of past heroes and prepares new ones. Thank you for your service, and thank you to our visitors from New York City for your respect and support.”
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The Firehouse, built in 1927 at 5349 S. Wabash St., was renovated by the Black Fire Brigade. The renovated space focuses on activities to promote diversity in hiring among Chicago firefighters and emergency medical services personnel.
The Black Fire Brigade’s focus is on the possibilities that lie ahead. The organization acknowledges the progress made today, but it reminds us that its efforts are not limited to isolated moments but contribute to the future trajectory of Black firefighters and emergency medical service workers.
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