The FireDawg Podcast

46. Recounting "Black Sunday" with FDNY and Former Air Force Firefighter - Jeff Cool

The FireDawg Podcast

Show Notes

In episode 46, Matt and Chris talk with FDNY Firefighter Jeff Cool. On January 23rd, 2005, Jeff survived what later became known as "Black Sunday". Jeff and 5 other New York City firefighters bailed out of the 4th floor of an illegally divided tenement in the Bronx, killing two firefighters and leading to the death of a third as a result of his injuries.

Jeff started his firefighting career in 1984 as an active-duty Air Force firefighter at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. From there, he did some time with the Air National Guard and spent four years as a civilian airport firefighter. Following that, he began his FDNY career at Ladder 19 in the Bronx. Following September 11, 2001, he moved to Rescue Company 3.

In the episode, he recounts the events of "Black Sunday", highlights the heroics of those Firefighters on that day, and discusses how we prevent similar tragedies in the future.

More from The FireDawg Podcast

Jul 25, 2026

In Episode 69, Matt and Austin explore how real-world experience, hard calls, mentorship, and recognizing what you don't know can shape the way firefighters train and make decisions.

May 15, 2026

What does it take to become an Indiana Smoke Diver?

May 8, 2026

In this episode of The FireDawg Podcast, we sit down with Kim Jolly, CEO of AOS Services Inc., to discuss the critical role equipment testing, maintenance, and compliance play in keeping fire departments operational and mission ready.

Apr 10, 2026

In Episode 66 , Matt sits down with Flip Griffin. Flip's journey spans from Navy corpsman to Search and Rescue professional, ultimately serving as a Command Master Chief—one of the highest enlisted leadership roles in the Navy—before transitioning into fire service leadership consulting.

Mar 16, 2026

In 1977, the Honda Canyon Fire swept across Vandenberg Air Force Base—now Vandenberg Space Force Base—becoming one of the most significant wildfires in the installation's history and reshaping how the department approached wildland firefighting.

See all episodes →