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by REMINGTON GREGG
They know what it's like to run into a burning building while every else is running out. They've all felt the anxiety associated with attempting to maneuver out of a roomful of black smoke.
But yesterday, approximately 200 retired firefighters celebrated the unique connection they share at the Staten Island FDNY Retirees' annual picnic.
"There's no closer professional bond than between firefighters, either on active duty or retired," said John Sollazzo, the retirees' president, who doubles as head of the United Retired Firefighters Association.
The air was humid and sticky outside Barnard Hall in Tottenville, but old friends greeted each other, hollering, "Hey Al," or, "How ya doin', Charlie." Retired Firefighter August Oberti of Willowbrook explained that when a group works so closely for years, "They form an unbreakable bond."
Oberti added that some retirees share more than they would like with their brethren -- health problems resulting from their days with the department. Many suffer from heart- or lung-related problems, but they refrain from complaining about them, he said. Oberti retired with heart problems after spending 16 years with Engine Co. 161/Ladder Co. 81 in South Beach.
While yesterday's event was a simple social gathering, members often come together to help colleagues and their families. They're always on call to aid widows of firefighters, from fixing leaky roofs to providing them with financial assistance, Sollazzo said.
"Although we left the job, we'll never stop being firefighters," he added.
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