Newark Fire Officer's Union IAFF Local 1860

10/19/2026

Today, the Newark Fire Officers Union pauses to remember and honor fallen Firefighter William C. Catherwood, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Line of Duty on October 19, 1951.
Firefighter Catherwood, Badge 602, was a United States Army veteran who served during World War I. He was appointed to the Newark Fire Department on March 1, 1924, and assigned to Truck Company 6.
On April 1, 1933, Firefighter Catherwood was temporarily transferred to Engine Company 4 before returning to Truck Company 6 on June 1, 1933, where he continued his service to the citizens of Newark.
On October 19, 1951, while in quarters, Firefighter Catherwood suddenly collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest. Tragically, he could not be revived and passed away at the age of 50.
Firefighter Catherwood dedicated more than 27 years of his life to the Newark Fire Department, following his military service to our nation. His decades of commitment reflect a lifetime devoted to public service, duty, and protecting others.
Today, on the 75th anniversary of his passing, we remember Firefighter William C. Catherwood and honor his service to our country, his dedication to the Newark Fire Department, and his ultimate sacrifice.
Never Forgotten. Always Remembered.

10/19/2026

10/04/2026

Today, the Newark Fire Officers Union pauses to remember and honor fallen Firefighter George D. Frainey, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Line of Duty on October 4, 1937.
Firefighter Frainey was a member of Truck Company 4 of the Newark Fire Department.
On October 4, 1937, Firefighter Frainey was operating at a fire involving one of the warehouses in the Newark Celluloid Company complex when a tremendous explosion rocked the facility, sending flaming debris throughout the surrounding area.
During the explosion, Firefighter Frainey was struck in the head by a flying steel girder and was killed instantly. Three other Newark firefighters were injured in the blast.
Today, we remember Firefighter George D. Frainey and honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice he displayed while answering the call to protect the citizens of Newark. His name and his service remain forever a part of the proud history of the Newark Fire Department.
Never Forgotten. Always Remembered.

09/30/2026

Today, the Newark Fire Officers Union pauses to remember and honor fallen Firefighter August Zeitler.
Badge number 139, Firefighter Zeitler was appointed on September 1, 1894, and assigned as an original member of Engine 12. On December 16, 1901, he transferred as an original member of Engine 17.
On September 27, 1914, while leaving quarters on his meal trip, he fell and struck his head on the step outside. He died from his injuries on September 30, 1914.
We honor his service and sacrifice, and remember him with respect.

09/28/2026

Please help the Newark Fire Officers Union support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA)!
Every donation helps MDA provide vital programs, resources, research, and unforgettable experiences like MDA Summer Camp for children and families affected by neuromuscular diseases.
No donation is too small. Together, we can help make a real difference for these incredible kids and their families.
Please donate and help us Fill the Boot for MDA!

09/21/2026

Today, the Newark Fire Officers Union pauses to remember and honor fallen Lineman John DiNicolas, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Line of Duty on September 21, 1968.
Lineman DiNicolas, Badge #28, was appointed to the Newark Fire Department on December 20, 1965, and was assigned to the Fire Alarm Division.
On September 21, 1968, while at the ocean in Lavallette, New Jersey, Lineman DiNicolas saw a child caught in a dangerous rip tide. Without hesitation, he entered the water and successfully rescued the child.
After saving the child, Lineman DiNicolas was overcome by exhaustion from the rescue. He disappeared beneath the heavy surf and tragically drowned. His body was recovered approximately 50 minutes later.
Lineman John DiNicolas gave his life saving the life of a child. His actions that day exemplified the courage and selflessness that define the fire service—a willingness to help someone in danger, even at tremendous personal risk.
Today, we remember and honor his heroism, his service to the Newark Fire Department, and his ultimate sacrifice.
Never Forgotten. Always Remembered.

09/20/2026

Today, the Newark Fire Officers Union pauses to remember and honor fallen Firefighter Michael Fagan, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Line of Duty on September 20, 1931.
Firefighter Fagan was assigned to Water Tower 1 of the Newark Fire Department.
On September 20, 1931, after returning from an alarm, Firefighter Fagan was backing the Water Tower apparatus into quarters when he suddenly slumped unconscious behind the wheel.
His fellow firefighters immediately attempted to revive him, but despite their efforts, Firefighter Fagan could not be saved. He was pronounced dead from an apparent massive heart attack.
Today, we remember Firefighter Michael Fagan and honor his service, dedication, and sacrifice as a member of the Newark Fire Department.
Never Forgotten. Always Remembered.