Denis Leary's Foundation Hosts FDNY Training Event to Raise Funds for Fire Departments

Actor and comedian Denis Leary established the Leary Firefighters Foundation in 2000 following a fire in Worcester, Massachusetts, that killed six firefighters, including his cousin and a childhood friend. The foundation provides equipment and training to fire departments to help firefighters return home safely after incidents.

The event opens the academy to non-firefighters for hands-on training, including entering burning buildings, extinguishing flames with hoses, searching for survivors, and rappelling down structures. It coincides with International Firefighters Day on May 4.

Participants train alongside actual firefighters and are not required to complete any activity they prefer to avoid. Leary stated that many participants exceed their initial plans upon seeing the teamwork involved. For example, actor Julianna Margulies, known for 'The Good Wife,' initially intended to coach but ended up rappelling in full gear.

The event attracts actors, athletes, and corporate supporters, raising funds for grants to fire departments across the U.S. David Morkal, a retired FDNY battalion chief and foundation board member, said annual grants have grown from $200,000 to $850,000, with a goal of $1 million this year.

The foundation prioritizes departments that cannot afford necessary equipment or training. John Tyson, assistant fire chief at the Talladega Fire Department in Alabama, said his department received a forcible entry trainer from the foundation, used daily to improve emergency responses.

He noted that such items are often deprioritized in tight budgets.

Broader Context and Support Edward A.

Kelly, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, which represents 360,000 firefighters and first responders in the U.S. and Canada, said fire departments often face budget constraints competing with other municipal needs. He described the foundation as addressing funding gaps to prevent tragedies.

Leary cited inspiration from Boston Bruins president Cam Neely's work supporting cancer patients. Following the 9/11 attacks, Leary briefly hoped for federal intervention but continued the foundation's efforts.