DIVISION CHIEF MARK BONILLA
Special Operations Command
1. What is your name, title and years at FDNY? Where are you currently assigned, and what are your work-related responsibilities?
My name is Mark Bonilla. I joined FDNY in 1997. I am the Chief in Charge of EMS Special Operations. I oversee the daily operations of our specialty units, which include Haz-Tac and Rescue paramedics.
2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?
It was a nice summer day, and I was outside in my neighborhood. I used to always see the ambulances go up and down Broadway with the sirens blaring and lights on. I said to myself, “That must be a cool, exciting job.” A friend of mine happened to work at FDNY, and I bumped into him one day, and he said, “Hey, they’re hiring.” I put in my application, and here I am.
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?
I was working in the Bronx doing an overtime shift—it was a Sunday, I believe—and I was in the 18th Battalion area, and a call came in for a cardiac arrest. It was a teenager; I believe he was 15 years old. I was literally a few blocks away, and I responded to the assignment.
We ended up getting the young man back, and it ended up being a nephew of one of the guys at my station. I was so glad I was working the shift. I was in the right place at the right time; everybody did an amazing job. I got to see him again at the Second Chance brunch with his family.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
Being part of this Department, you’ve got to be the best of the best. I know there are probably other agencies—like NYPD, which has a great team and family—but being here, hands down we outshine everybody. This is a special family environment.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
Remaining humble. Communicating with the Department membership and with the community creates for a powerful experience. I try to be a leader, not a manager.
My job is to make everybody that comes through here a better person. Seeing these EMTs and paramedics come up, like myself, as a young EMT out in the Bronx, knowing you can do powerful things here.
I haven’t forgotten where I came from. I grew up in Washington Heights, and I remember my mother, who passed away, telling me, “Just keep working at it. It’s going to happen. You just got to stay focused.” So that’s what I try to tell the young people, men and women that come through: Just stay focused. You’ll get it. Work hard and stay humble.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
My role here is to put out the best of the best that the EMS has to offer for the Department and the communities we serve. When you come through Haz-Tac and Rescue, you’re 100% stronger as an EMT, paramedic and rescue paramedic. You bring that skill set to the community so when there’s a time of crisis or a time of need, the community and the people of the City are getting the best of the best.