In celebration of Black History Month, the FDNY is honoring Robert Thomas of Ladder 118/Engine 205, and his sons Nathan, Jason, and Stephen. Robert is a 38-year veteran of the department who raised not one, not two, but three brave men who followed in his footsteps to become firefighting heroes.
The Thomas brothers, from left, Nathan, Jason, and Stephen, with their dad Robert, center. (All photos courtesy Instagram @joinfdny.)
It’s an incredible feeling as a parent to have something like this happen and I never anticipated this, because I always encouraged them to make their own choices in life, but I’m glad they are all working here now. Through the years, I always told them how much l love this career and I brought them to the firehouse, so they could see the camaraderie here and as they got older and they saw how much this career has to offer with the public service, the schedule and so forth, I think it became more meaningful. I also think it’s important for the community to see different generations in one family that decided to help others in this unique way. My sons are examples of what can happen when you stay focused in life. I’m very proud about that and just proud of all three of them.
All three brothers are stationed in Brooklyn, Jason at Engine 216 and Nathan at Engine 219. The youngest brother, Stephen, is a US Navy Veteran and serves at Engine 225. “It’s cool having my dad and big brothers on the job with me because I know if I have any questions, they will help me and just having this career in common is pretty awesome,” said Stephen. “This is a tradition in our family now and I’m happy to help keep it going.”
BHB salutes the Thomas family! We will update if and when the next generation of Thomases joins the department.
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