Symbols and celebrations are important reminders of

where we’ve been, how we got there and who did it

The 9-11 Commemorative Chin Strap ™ is just such a symbol.

The red blood line running through the middle of each strap commemorates both the selfless heroics of those who gave their all during and in the aftermath of the tragedy we call 9-11 and it reminds us that there is a high price for freedom.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy known as 9-11, the Lighthouse Uniform Company received a phone call from Lt. Jerry Hughes from the Chicago Fire Department. He knew about us from our Fallen Fire Fighter Dress Uniform Program.

Lt. Hughes suggested we make an attempt at getting America’s Fire Service to adopt the NYFD Bell Cap as a statement of solidarity with those Firefighters lost.

The idea was explored, but in the end proved too daunting a task. It did, however, lead to the creation of the 9-11 Commemorative Chin Strap™.

Not wanting to capitalize on the moment, the Lighthouse did not market the straps and made them available to only a select group of Honor Guards. Without a public presence, the Chin Strap soon fell out of sight.

Now, almost ten years has gone by since 9-11 and there is a generation of firefighters coming up that do not relate to 9-11 like it happened to them. It is turning into a history lesson right before our eyes and the decision was made to reinvigorate the 9-11 Commemorative Chin Strap Program and use it as a bridge, to create a connection and ‘make sure the past stays part of the present’.

A list of the MAPO Endorsements: 

Message from the Director

Layoffs are tough. Nobody likes them, especially when it’s the firefighter being laid off. What makes it especially difficult to understand is when the reason for the layoff is due to the fiscal mismanagement of the city council. For example: when times were good, an Employer chose not to fund a pension. This went against the advice of its own management team, as well as the Pension Board and the Union.

Now, when times are tough and dollars are scarce, the Employer is facing a half-million dollar contribution to the pension fund. This large figure is not because of a generous pension formula. It is because of the Employer’s failure to pay as you go in the past. Now the Employer is talking about layoffs of public safety personnel because of their own previous sins. Because they ignored paying the bill, their obligation has unnecessarily increased. The Employer failed to be responsible, and the employees have to pay the price; not to mention the safety of the citizenry is placed at risk.

MAFF stands committed to the safety of the firefighters, whether it’s on the job every day, or in your retirement. Please keep us informed of any inappropriate financial moves by your own department and Employer. MAFF will do everything possible to ensure that the Employer complies with the terms and conditions of your labor agreement. Fred Timpner, Executive Director, MAFF.