James Meskill, July 24th, 1953
On Friday, July 24, 1953 at 2:21 AM, an alarm was sounded on Box 431, 3rd and Noble Streets, for a fire in a vacant building owned by M. Cohen, located at 472-74 N. 3rd Street.
While operating at this fire, Captain James Meskill, a Relief Officer for the 4th Battalion, at the time working at Engine 21, was overcome by smoke fumes, removed to the pavement and given oxygen. He was taken to Albert Einstein Medical Center at 5:25 AM, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Captain Meskill’s father, John James Meskill, Sr. had also been a member of the Fire Department, having risen to the rank of Battalion Chief, and later held the position of Acting Chief Engineer (1897-1914) while only holding the permanent rank of Battalion Chief. His brother Joseph also served as Battalion Chief in the department. His two nephews James and John also served.
James Meskill, July 24th, 1953
On Friday, July 24, 1953 at 2:21 AM, an alarm was sounded on Box 431, 3rd and Noble Streets, for a fire in a vacant building owned by M. Cohen, located at 472-74 N. 3rd Street.
While operating at this fire, Captain James Meskill, a Relief Officer for the 4th Battalion, at the time working at Engine 21, was overcome by smoke fumes, removed to the pavement and given oxygen. He was taken to Albert Einstein Medical Center at 5:25 AM, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Captain Meskill’s father, John James Meskill, Sr. had also been a member of the Fire Department, having risen to the rank of Battalion Chief, and later held the position of Acting Chief Engineer (1897-1914) while only holding the permanent rank of Battalion Chief. His brother Joseph also served as Battalion Chief in the department. His two nephews James and John also served.
Career History
Appointed Hoseman Engine 32 - April 1, 1938
Promoted Lieutenant Engine 32 - July 1, 1946
Promoted Captain Battalion 4 - February 16, 1953