The Last Men Out: Life on the Edge at Rescue 2 Firehouse

By Tom Downey

320 pages

Brooklyn's Rescue 2 has long been known as one of the country's top firehouses, a model for departments nationwide. Recognized for their expertise and commitment, Rescue 2's men handle only big blazes where civilians and their fellow firemen are in danger.

Beginning in 1996 with legendary Captain Ray Downey's promotion, the story follows the trials of his replacement, Phil Ruvolo, as he works to win over his headstrong men. A new Rescue 2 is forged through changes in firefighting methods and blazes that quickly become legend. Through the crisis of 9/11 and the subsequent rebuilding, Ruvolo triumphantly fills the late Downey's boots, heading to Rescue 2 toward a future worthy of its past, its heroes, its city.

Filled with firefighting detail, raucous humor, and gritty real-life scenes, The Last Men Out ?is a new classic for an era in firefighting that is more risky, complicated, and dramatic than any before.