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by Jeff Pegues
Tremont, the Bronx-WABC — This has been a week that the FDNY will not soon forget. Three deaths in a single day marked the department's worse loss since September 11th.
But this evening, some good news: One of four injured firefighters was released from the hospital.
Eyewitness News reporter Jeff Pegues is live in the Tremont section of the Bronx with the latest.
His spirits apparently high, Brendan Cawley exited St. Barnabas Hospital not in a wheelchair, but walking on his own. He's serving as an inspiration for the FDNY family, after a week of devastating loss.
Late this afternoon, Cawley was greeted on the way out of the hospital by dozens of the city's bravest.
Steve Dempsey, FDNY: "This is one of the worst weeks I've ever had in my life. But to see Brendan walk out... you just can't put it into words."
Cawley is leaving the hospital less than a week after the deadly fire that could very well have claimed his life as well. The Bronx fire claimed the lives of Firefighter John Bellew and Lt.Curtis Meyran.
It is widely acknowledged among firefighters that had it not been for Lt. Meyran, Brendan Cawley might not have survived.
Dep. Asst. Chief Joseph Pfeifer, FDNY: "He speaks very highly of the Lieutenant, and he owes a lot to the Lieutenant."
This has been a bittersweet day for the FDNY. They buried one of their own, and now welcome their brother back to the rank and file, in an emotional reunion.
Jim Slevin, Uniformed Firefighters' Assn.: "It's great to have some uplifting news. We've had a really tough week."
Brendan Cawley has some broken ribs, and a sprained ankle. It will be a long road to recovery for him.
His family has sacrificed a lot in service to New York City. His brother Michael, also a firefighter, was lost on September 11.
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