55th and North Ave

About eight blocks away, I could see the cloud of smoke that engulfed the area around 55th and North.  Let's just say I got a clear view from the officers seat. 

We staged and then meet up with the IC for orders. Chief asked who the boss was and I reluctantly raised my hand and responded "Acting."  Operations was going defensive and with that, he asked us to replace a small handline on the A-side of the building with a big one.  So we grabbed a 2 1/2 inch line off of 13's and got it in play.  With all the lines operating, the IC then asked us to supply 34's.  This building was getting pounded with water.  So much, that the basement was almost completely filled.  There were two aerial master streams, and at least two big lines flowing.  Dave and I, working a big line in the front, were getting pounded with the putrid smoke that was bellowing out.  Reminded me of getting smoked out at the academy.  Eyes were burning, and so watered up.  Only this time, I probably should have been masked up.  Still fun though.

Suddenly, my helmet goes flying and I get punched in the chest and pushed back about 10-12 feet.  Quickly I realized that it was an aerial's master stream that took me out and like a turtle on its back, I saw that I was still in the stream's path.  I scrambled to my feet and ducked behind Truck 9.  Did a quick self assessment, making sure I was alright.  Shortly, the ISO came over and asked who got hit.  With a quick laugh, I acknowledged that it was myself and informed him that I was ok.  After a little while, Truck 13's HEO came over and asked who got it?  Replying with a smirk, "Me!  I already got my year on.  I got the whole getting wet thing." 

"Not by me."

"Well, take that one off you book then!" I joked.

In due time, companies were finally able to re-enter the building.  We assisted checking for hot spots on the second floor along with dumping more water into the basement.  Before long, I overheard the IC state that he wanted the building taken down on the fact that there was still fire somewhere.  Either in the basement or just below the first floor that we could not get to.

We were released a while later.  Happy to go home, and somewhat satisfied how I performed as an Acting Lt. for the day.  Arriving back to 11's, it was after 8am.  Finished up a few loose ends then took off in my mighty blue JK.

Byrge