Specially trained and ready for anything, the members of the FDNY's Special Operations Command are called to unusual incidents and hazardous emergencies throughout New York City. | New York City Fire Department (FDNY)

Deputy Chief Raymond M. Downey was Chief of the Special Operations Command on September 11, 2001. He made the Supreme Sacrifice in the line of duty while helping others escape from the fire and collapse scene of the World Trade Center. Chief Downey’s expertise in building collapse operations led him to establish the FDNY Technical Rescue School. He was a visionary on technical rescue and spent years sharing his knowledge through intense training with members of the Special Operations Command and

Members of FDNY’s elite Special Operations are required to obtain their certifications in Advanced Scuba Diver, Municipal Rescue Diver, and Open Water Diver upon joining a rescue company. “This is probably the most common thing we do next to fires, is any kind of water emergency. It's a city surrounded by water with millions of people here. We are in the water a lot,” said Firefighter Cameron Peek. “Here in New York City, we have witnessed it all, which is why we have the highest standards for m