Leary Firefighters Foundation

05/28/2026

Denis Leary recently joined Dr. Preston Cline on the Mission Critical Team Institute podcast, Teamcast, for a powerful conversation on “Residue” — the emotional and psychological aftermath of intense experiences.

Stream the podcast below to hear Denis’s perspective in this meaningful conversation. 🎙️

Actor and Leary Firefighter Foundation founder Denis Leary joins Preston Cline to discuss residue, grief, and what method actors share with mission critical operators.

05/25/2026

Today, on Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

Their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten, and their memory lives on in every act of service that follows.

📸: New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

05/24/2026

Our thoughts are with the Boston Fire Department and family of firefighter Robert “Bobby” Kilduff, Jr., who died in the line of duty while battling a three-alarm fire on May 23rd, 2026.

Bobby was a third-generation firefighter, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and a proud Boston firefighter for 24 years.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, fellow firefighters, and loved ones during this difficult time. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

05/21/2026

“Firefighters are going to be exposed to many things that can lead to physical and mental issues. Seek medical treatment and reach out for help when needed. Early detection and support can be the key to good health.” —Retired New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Lieutenant Mike Ciampo

Mike Ciampo is a fourth-generation firefighter who served 34 years with the FDNY in Engine 46, Ladder 44, and Ladder 45. Before joining the FDNY, he served five years with the District of Columbia Fire Department.

Early in his career, Mike strived to earn the respect of fellow firefighters while learning from his mentors. That passion later motivated him to help shape the next generation of firefighters entering the job after 9/11.

“You must have passion and love for the job to stay motivated and pass on the knowledge and experiences to those who follow and ensure they’re equipped to meet the daily challenges they’ll face.”

Mike offers the following advice to new firefighters: “You don’t learn this job overnight; it takes multiple platforms to educate yourself. I have a short phrase: ‘eyes, ears, and experiences.’ Use your eyes to read, watch videos, and observe others on the fireground. Use your ears to listen to senior members mentoring you, podcasts, and radio reports. Experience comes from training with tools and performing tactics in drills or on scene. Eventually, you’ll develop into a firefighter and be ready to act immediately when called upon.”

Today, Mike continues to serve as a fire instructor, author, and longtime contributor to Fire Engineering magazine, helping train firefighters across the country through his writings and experiences. As an occupational cancer survivor, he also advocates for stronger cancer prevention efforts and greater awareness of firefighter health, emphasizing, “Hopefully, we all can improve on wearing our facepieces and staying on air, then decontaminating quickly to prevent exposure to deadly chemicals.”

Join us in thanking Mike Ciampo for his decades of service, leadership, and contributions to the fire service.

05/16/2026

We extend our condolences to the Morrill Fire Department, family, and friends of Firefighter Andrew Cross, who died in the line of duty on Friday, May 15, 2026, while responding to a fire and explosion at a lumber mill in Searsmont, Maine.

At least 10 others are in serious or critical conditions due to injuries sustained at the scene.

This loss is felt throughout the fire service and beyond. Please join us in keeping all those affected in our thoughts.

05/13/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a reminder that you don’t have to carry the weight of the job alone.

Talking openly about mental health is a powerful way to reduce the stigma in the fire service and remind others that they’re not alone, either.

If there’s a coping strategy, wellness tip, or resource that has helped you, mention it below. It might help someone else going through something similar.

🎥: The Call We Carry: Confronting PTSD in the Fire Service – full documentary available on YouTube.

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day!

Today, we celebrate the moms, mother figures, and caregivers in our lives.

To all the wonderful mothers on our team and in our community, your strength and support inspire us. Thank you for all you do! ❤️

📸: Fire Dog Photos

05/05/2026

Help us wish a happy birthday to two of our incredible board members, retired New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Battalion Chief David Morkal and volunteer firefighter Brian Williams.

We’re grateful for their years of service and the leadership, passion, and generosity they bring to our mission. Their support helps us provide life-saving resources to fire departments that need it most.

Thank you both for the impact you have on firefighters.

05/04/2026

Every year, the number of grant requests we receive from fire departments across the country increases.

The need for new gear, equipment, training, and resources is greater than ever. Today, on International Firefighters' Day, the best way to honor the men and women who protect our communities is to make sure they have the tools they need to do the job safely.

A donation to our mission goes directly toward grants for fire departments nationwide. Every dollar brings us one step closer to reaching a department in need.

Donate today.

05/04/2026

Today, on International Firefighters' Day, we honor the dedication, courage, and sacrifices of firefighters everywhere. Thank you for your service and selflessness.

Firefighters are always there when we need them. Let's be there when they need us.

To celebrate International Firefighters' Day, donate in honor of a firefighter. Every dollar goes directly towards new equipment, training, education, and resources for fire departments nationwide.

05/02/2026

Yesterday, an extraordinary group gathered at the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Training Academy for our 10th Annual Denis Leary FDNY Firefighter Challenge, rappelling off buildings, putting out live fires, and more, to experience what it takes to be a firefighter while raising money for them.

With International Firefighters’ Day on May 4th, there’s no better time to show your support for the men and women who do this every day.

Donate in honor of a firefighter. Every dollar makes a difference.