Mike Colón Media

This week on Mic’d In New Haven, I’m joined by a man whose life has been defined by five decades of public service — former FDNY Commissioner Tom Von Essen.

Tom joined the FDNY in 1970, beginning his career with Ladder 42 in the Bronx. Thirteen years in, he stepped into the union, eventually becoming President — and in 1996, the 30th Commissioner in New York City Fire Department history. Over the next five years, he led the FDNY through triumphs, challenges, and ultimately its greatest test — guiding the department through the rebuilding and recovery that followed September 11th.

Since then, his service has continued — as a consultant, and later, as a FEMA Administrator aiding in the response to Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.

A return visit from a true leader — that’s former FDNY Commissioner Tom Von Essen, on The Mic’d In New Haven Podcast.

VIEW INTERVIEW HERE: