By Esther Horvath
Special Operations Command (SOC) is considered the most elite company within Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and among the most well-trained firefighters in the world.
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The main mission of the unit is to rescue other firefighters or civilians who are trapped. SOC firefighters are well trained for quick response to events such as a terrorist attacks, hazmat, special and technical rescues, confined space and high angle rescues, and scuba rescue.
On March 8, 2015, FDNY SOC will celebrate the 100th year anniversary of Rescue 1 Company as the first Rescue Company in the United States.
I took portraits of Rescue 1 firefighters at locations in Manhattan which will cease to exist in this form in the future–construction sites and buildings which will be torn down, as well as one with their symbol, an eagle, looking over New York City.
See a preview of these photos in the gallery above.
A book has also been also published with the portraits and history of Rescue 1. This book can be bought now at the Rescue 1 firehouse in New York City (http://www.rescue1fdny.net/rescue_1/Home.html).
More Esther Horvath: www.estherhorvath.com
