|
|
 |
 |
by Eyewitness News' Lucy Yang
(New York -WABC, March 15, 2005) — There is a nasty fight brewing within the ranks of the FDNY. Fire department brass issued a new, tougher mandate for how firefighters should look and act during the Saint Patrick's Day Parade.
Firefighters are now so upset, hundreds say they won't march with the department. Eyewitness News reporter Lucy Yang is here with more.
Several dozen firefighters gathered at a church basement in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx tonight ... And it wasn't to pray for understanding.
They are furious over a recent edict from the department which states in boldface, "The wearing of green berets is strictly prohibited."
Steve Cassidy, Union President: "It's a Bronx tradition a great tradition. To take it away makes no sense. We have real critical issues one of them should not be can we wear green berets. It's ridiculous."
For more than 30 years firefighters, mostly from the Bronx. have topped off their uniforms with a green beret as they march in the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. A picture from 1986 showcases several hundred in their Irish caps on 5th Avenue.
John Rohr has been keeping this tradition for a quarter of a century and promises he will wear his beret this Thursday even if it means forfeiting his place in the parade.
John Rohr, Retired Firefighter: "It makes no sense. We've done nothing to bring discredit upon the department."
Keith Auletta, FDNY: "It's kind of slap in the face."
Keith Auletta is Italian but he is fighting for the Irish now, for the right to don these hand knit hats.
Auletta: "I would love to wear the green beret. I'm going to wear the green beret."
 |
|
 |
 |
|
|
|
