FIREFIGHTER BRENDAN LORINO
Marine Operations
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 Firefighter Brendan Lorino. I started with FDNY in 2008; I was assigned to Engine 48 up in the Bronx. I was there for about 15 years, and then six months ago, in early 2024, I transferred into the Marine Operations Unit.
In the Marine Unit, we respond to several maritime emergencies. NYC offers 400 miles of coastline. We respond to boat fires, vessels that run aground and vessels that break down, as well as people in the water, in distress. Our job is to assist anyone in distress and keep everyone safe in NYC waters.
2. What called you to a life of public service at FDNY?
I have always liked being able to help people who need assistance. As a young child, I remember seeing firefighters responding to emergencies, and it stayed with me. My brother became a NYC firefighter. Hearing stories about the FDNY and visiting the firehouse inspired me to want to be part of this group of dedicated individuals; I followed in his footsteps and made the best choice of my life!
3. Can you share one of your most memorable moments while working at FDNY?
Sharing two back-to-back medals with my firehouse at FDNY Medal Day has been an incredible and memorable honor. For 2023 and 2024 FDNY Medal Day, Engine Company 48, which I served with until last year, was awarded the Lt. James Curran New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation/Father Julian F. Deeken Memorial Medal.
4. What does We Are FDNY mean to you?
We Are FDNY means as a big group of individuals from different backgrounds, we have a common goal, and that goal is to get the job done no matter what it takes, under any circumstance. No matter what the task in front of us is, we are going to get it done, professionally and efficiently. This mentality starts at the FDNY Fire Academy, where complete strangers learn to work flawlessly with each other and rely on each other, achieving the “We play to win” mindset.
Our training and no-fail attitude define who we are.
5. What is your superpower (best quality or skill)?
I feel that I have a drive to be successful. If there’s something that needs to get done, I will get it done no matter what it takes.
6. How does your role support the public safety mission of the FDNY?
NYC has over 400 miles of coastline, with water surrounding every borough. We respond to all kinds of emergencies in the water every single day. Our goal is to keep the public safe in NYC waters, and through our rigorous training, we are ready for virtually any waterborne emergency that may arise, including lifesaving and distress calls, 24/7.