Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas to retire June 27
Updated 02:57 p.m., May 14, 2008
The Post and Courier
Charleston Fire Department Chief Rusty Thomas.
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Fire Chief Rusty Thomas retires
Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas announced Wednesday he would retire from the department after 32 years of service.
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Read what people in the community are saying about Chief Thomas announcing his retirement.
Embattled Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas announced his retirement Wednesday, saying that last year's Sofa Super Store fire had changed him forever and that stepping down is the best way to help the department move forward.
Thomas is scheduled to speak at a news conference at 4 p.m. today.
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Mayor Joe Riley talks about Chief Rusty's Retirement
Mayor Joe Riley held a press conference Wednesday afternoon to discuss Charleston Fire Chief Rusty Thomas' announcement to retire after 32 years with the department.
The announcement comes on the eve of a highly anticipated report expected to be critical of the fire department's handling of the June 18 blaze that killed nine of Thomas' firefighters.
Thomas is a third generation Charleston firefighter, and has served as a member of the department since 1976. He has served as chief since 1992.
Mayor Joe Riley said Wednesday that Thomas came to see him Tuesday afternoon and presented a letter expressing his decision to retire, effective June 27. As recently as last week, Riley expressed unwavering support for Thomas and said he had no doubts that Thomas was the man to lead the department forward.
Thomas also has rejected calls for his retirement, saying that he owed it to the memory of his fallen firefighters to stay on as the department undergoes a sweeping transformation of its tactics, equipment and training.
Thomas announced his plans on the fire department's dispatch radio Wednesday morning. He said the tragedy and its aftermath have taken a toll on the department and his family.
"I love this department and have given it my entire professional life, the loss of my nine friends last June 18 changed me and this department forever," Thomas said in his letter to Riley. "I feel as though the best thing I can do right now to help this department that I love so much heal from the tragedy of June 18 is to step aside as chief."
Roger Yow, president of the local firefighters union that represents about half of the city's 250 firefighters, said he was in utter shock and had not expected Thomas to step down.
While the state and national firefighters union had called for Thomas to lose his job in the wake of the fire, Yow's organization had not yet taken a formal position.
"It was a total shock to me. I've never had anything against the chief personally. We just wish him and his family the best. We feel like it was something that needed to be done to help this fire department move forward."
In our special section with photos, videos, interactives, donation information and every story written about the tragedy.
Yow said he heard the news of Thomas's resignation from Harold Schaitberger, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters in Washington, D.C.
Riley met with Schaitberger over coffee in Washington, D.C, earlier this week to discuss issues surrounding the fire department.
Schaitberger's assistant, Jeff Zack, said the president described the meeting as "a privileged discussion, but also a frank and open discussion about the future of the Charleston Fire Department, everything from the grass roots on up."
Schaitberger said in a statement that the local and national union are "single-minded in our work for real change in the training, policy, command and operating procedures of the Charleston Fire Department so that what happened last June 18 never happens again."
"We are entirely focused on the 240 men and women who serve the city under the most dangerous of circumstances, and who deserve to be provided the training, tools, staffing and resources needed to do their job safely and effectively," Schaitberger said.
Some local firefighters had been organizing a public demonstration of some sort to coincide with the release of an investigative report on the fire. It's unclear whether those plans had any impact on Thomas' decision.
The report from the city-appointed panel of consultants is expected to build on a draft of a federal report that he city made public last week. The draft report painted a stark picture of a chaotic scene of firefighters begging for more water to fight back a growing inferno, missing telltale warning signs of impending doom and commanders issuing orders that conflicted with basic firefighting principles.
Janet Wilmoth, editorial director of Fire Chief magazine, said it was the right time for Thomas to step down as the independent panel will likely call for a variety of changes in its report. "It's in the best interest of the department to look for new leadership," she said. "They need a fresh start."
St. Andrews Capt. Morris Sills, who oversaw his department's response at the Sofa Super Store blaze, has been critical of Thomas' command decisions on the scene that night.
Thomas initially turned down Sills' officers of assistance and manpower.
"My first thought is one of relief. It's finally over, and we can start getting some closure," Sills said. "A lot of these (firefighters) are falling apart and their marriages are breaking up. This will be a major step in improving their mental health. It's upsetting it took so long."
Fire Capt. Jamie Greene, a vocal proponent for change in the department, said the news caught him by surprise Wednesday morning. "It was something we had long anticipated, but it was beginning to look pretty grim."
Greene said he has mixed emotions about Thomas' departure, but it was a necessary change for the department to move forward.
"I like Rusty personally," he said. "If Rusty needed me right now, I would be right there for him. But none of this is based on friendship, it's based on job performance."
Capt. Art Wittner, the lone surviving member of the Engine Co. 16 crew that responded to the fire that night, was disappointed to hear Thomas was leaving. "Maybe this is for his health and everything," he said. "But I know he loved this fire department and he loved those nine guys."
City Council has been largely absent from the debate over Thomas' future with the department. Their requests to meet with the expert panel for updates on the investigations and to be more involved in the process have been rebuffed by Riley.
"Ultimately I am not surprised. I saw this coming to a degree," said Charleston City Council member Kathleen Wilson.
"On a personal level, I'm very sorry to see him go," Wilson said. Thomas, an outstanding person, is personally devastated by the situation, she said. "I think he's trying to do what he thinks is best for the department and if that's what he feels then I will go with that," she said.
Former City Councilman Henry Fishburne first called for Thomas to step aside in September. He said Wednesday that he was pleased the chief had finally decided to leave.
Fishburne said he hopes the city will launch a national search to find a new fire chief, just as it did to find a new police chief after Reuben Greenberg retired in 2005. "We need to get someone who is truly qualified," he said. "Obviously, a lot is needed to get the fire department up to the standards we want to."
Fishburne said he expects the forthcoming panel report to show once and for all that the fire department was "poorly led, poorly equipped and underfunded" at the time of the fire. "I think we have made some progress in those areas, but we still have a long way to go."
Reach Ron Menchaca at rmenchaca@postandcourier.com or 937-5724. Reach Glenn Smith at gsmith@postandcourier.com or 937-5556.
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Comments
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
WOOOOO HOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!
May 14, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
Go figure. He must have gotten a sneak peak at an unflattering report (due tomorrow I think?). Did it take so long because he really thought this would turn out well? See ya.
May 14, 2008 at 10:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Charles_Town (anonymous) says...
What no comments here yet. I think this was a long overdue decision. But after the facts released in the report, it was pretty much a foregone conclusion that he would have to retire. (after all retirement sure beats being lynched)
May 14, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
riddiksgirl (anonymous) says...
Wow, a firefighter for 30+ years. I bet, even if the Charleston 9 had never happend, this man has seen enough to fill a book.
May 14, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CNN_10 (anonymous) says...
Yeah he saw that report and it was time for him to run
May 14, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Smart_Enough_2_Know_Better (anonymous) says...
Smart man. Hope the mayor is smart enough to follow his example- Chief Thomas shouldn't be the scapegoat. The buck stops at the top.
May 14, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CedarPosts (anonymous) says...
Bravo Zulu Chief Thomas - You may stand down, but do so knowing you did the right thing for your fire department and I'd be pleased to ride in the back of your truck any day.
Chris McIntire - Capt.
May 14, 2008 at 10:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
choochood (anonymous) says...
How many will say - a little too late??? He should have resigned LONG before now - he waited until the reports made him look like the incompetent leader he is.
May 14, 2008 at 10:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Marianne0558 (anonymous) says...
It's about time!
CedarPosts:
How do you figure Chief Thomas did the right thing for the fire department? Didn't the report show that it was negligence from the fire department and/or city and/or store?
He did the right thing for the fire department by stepping down.
May 14, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Marianne0558 (anonymous) says...
I wonder what kind of GROSS NEGLIGENCE we will be reading about tomorrow when the report comes out.....?
May 14, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chip2407 (anonymous) says...
More like "Bravo Sierra Chief Thomas". If our nine brothers had not died the Charleston FD would still be fighting fires like it was 1979.
May 14, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carolinapanther (anonymous) says...
Enjoy your retirement, you deserve it. Thanks for serving our city for 32 years. We will miss you!
May 14, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kerwandstarks (anonymous) says...
I feel Chief Thomas is being unfairly criticized. My good citizens, this was an accident. Please put yourself in this poor mans shoes just for a moment. Most of you act as though he purposely sent these fine heroes into die. No one here can even imagine the angst this man is suffering through. I believe I read somewhere the last fireman fatality in Charleston was in the early 1960s. If this man was as bad as you characterise we have have seen many more.
Right after June 18 I witnessed the greatest brotherhood of firefighters I have ever seen. Soon after that, I witnessed the worst.
I am neither a fireman nor politician, but I wish all in here could only put themselves in Chief Rusty's shoes for a moment and reflect.
I am sure no one feels or would like to change the events of 7/18 more than him.
Cool it!
Chief Rusty - you have the support of the fine citizens of Charleston.
May 14, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
proudmomma (anonymous) says...
You mean 6/18.
May 14, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SuzieQJones (anonymous) says...
32 years! Let's give him some credit, people. When Greenberg left city service, he was the bad guy. Recently there was an article about his retirement and now he's a good guy. It comes and it goes.
May 14, 2008 at 11:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
kerwandstarks, As you say you are not a firefighter, that is why you think this was an accident. Talk to firefighters and you will understand the gross negligence this man has committed. The firefighters in this area have seen this kind of fire coming for a long time at the city, and although we hate that it happened, we are grateful in a way because without the nine the same failures would be taking place. The City and their great firefighters finally have a leg to stand on and ammunition to fight with. The true legacy that the nine will have is initiation of the changes that will save more lives in the long run. I wish the CFD good luck.
May 14, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
moonpie (anonymous) says...
Long over due. Enjoy your retirement.
May 14, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Marianne0558 (anonymous) says...
kerwandstarks,
Please do not speak for the fine citizens of Charleston.
I'm sure there are plenty of people who do NOT support him and never will.
The only support of mine that he has is that he is stepping down.
May 14, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
kerwand - it is his longstanding blatant and prideful disregard of compliance with fire service standards that is the reason many WILL NEVER support him. Many of us have known for years of his root in traditions that were dangerous by today's standards. Many non-fire personnel such as yourself didn't get to know this fact until this tragedy occured. I am personally surprised they went as long as they did without a disaster.
May 14, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carolinapanther (anonymous) says...
Remember what your mom always told you, "if you dont have something nice to say about someone, dont say it at all."
This man is a human being and a child of God! Treat him the way you would want to be treated.
May 14, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vesta (anonymous) says...
All right, Mayor Riley. This is your chance to rectify a great many errors. Hire a new chief from OUTSIDE. Hire a new chief who is QUALIFIED and who has the interest of the CFD ffs as a priority (not someone who is beholden to YOU). I have had nine American flags in my front yard since June 19. Until someone is at the helm of the CFD who has fire experience, and education and the interest of the CFD ffs as their priority, those flags remain in memory of nine brave men who died under your watch, Mayor Riley.
May 14, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jammanofdi (anonymous) says...
This is BS. There are alot of saddened feelings refarding what happened last year, and people have turned those feelings into hatred of the firefighters figurehead. That was an accident that happened - and something that Chief Thomas will relive every single day for the rest of his life. He lost 9 of his friends, brothers and partners that day - and people continue to rehash this and try to turn him into the reason for that tragedy. I am very sorry Chief - sorry that the people that you have supported for over 30 years are not more supportive of you.
May 14, 2008 at noon ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
Who freeking cares if he is a child of god!! And all of that "OOOOOOO be nice, dont hurt anyones feelings" is a bunch of crap. This pressure needed to be brought, and he needed to go. My neice knows more about proper firefighting procedure than he did.
May 14, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
IT'S ON THE 12:0'CLOCK NEWS NOW.
Too late for some, but looking better for the rest.
May 14, 2008 at 12:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
a_set_love (anonymous) says...
Requiem for Rusty Thomas -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNQRfB...
May 14, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carolinapanther (anonymous) says...
jifeng3, I feel sorry for you! You stated that you dont care if he is a child of God! Please be careful what you say. I hope somehow you will change for harsh feelings. I would hate to live your life.
May 14, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
Sir, will all due respect to you, I am not christian, and I frankly do not care if you think we should be nice to him because he is a "child of god". He is DIRECTLY responsible for killing these nine men, and quite honostly needs to be prosecuted for negligent homocide. He had consistantly ignored national standards, and NFPA firefighting practices and was proud of it. That is what I care about.
May 14, 2008 at 12:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Best of Luck to you and may your retirement be a wonderful chapter in your book~ thanks for your commitment to our community and service over the years~~ God Bless~~
May 14, 2008 at 12:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CedarPosts (anonymous) says...
I have a large distaine for people, lawyers in particuler who like to use the condisending "sir" to to begin a statement of little or no vaule much less merit.
May 14, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Neponset (anonymous) says...
I have been thinking for some time that joe would ease out rusty when the time was right - turns out that joe had to ease rusty out when the anticipated news was not good.
May 14, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
KidYendor (anonymous) says...
Rusty probably did the right thing. If only Joe would retire too.
May 14, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
CedarPosts - jifdeng is no lawyer - he's a fire officer. I didn't think his post was condescending....and he is right. He needs to stop his anti-Christian act, but I know him personally and will keep working on him for that.
You said you would ride with Rusty anyday - go do that. And yall go ahead and fight structure fires with a friggin booster line together.
May 14, 2008 at 12:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Good luck to you Rusty
May 14, 2008 at 12:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svESinKW (anonymous) says...
It is extremely low-class, and the height of ignorance and stupidity, to kick a man when he's down. Some of you people need anger management training.
I agree with CedarPosts and Mayor Riley.
God Bless you, Chief Thomas, and the best of everything to you in the future. You will always have the support of our family.
May 14, 2008 at 12:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekguy2008 (anonymous) says...
Rusty should have been fired.
His punishment will be that every night when he lays his head on the pillow to sleep, he will replay those moments when he REFUSED help and additional water from other agencies twice and REFUSED to use the heat seeking device.
Good riddance. Riley should be next to go.
carolinapanther, you have two choices: you can either go back outside and bury your head back in the sand, or go buy a new pair of rose-colored glasses and continue to live in ignorant bliss.
May 14, 2008 at 1:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PalmettoHawk (anonymous) says...
Rusty Thomas' apparent disdain and lack of regard for up to date fire fighting methods did contribute to the death of nine fine individuals in several ways on June 18, 2007.
Any ninth grade chemistry student will tell you that when you introduce a fresh supply of oxygen to a fire it will accelerate the fire every time.
It is hindsight that allows me to believe that he had the best intention when Chief Thomas ordered glass windows shattered (providing fuel for the fire) in the hopes that clearing the smoke would allow his men to escape the inferno that they were fighting.
While a gung ho attitude is admirable, when it is allowed to perpetuate without any checks or balances that attitude becomes fool hardy.
To resort to name calling is not productive in any manner of speaking.
These reports are factual and not emotionally based. Let's allow the facts to speak for themselves and the dead.
May 14, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bravecharleston9myspace (anonymous) says...
REST IN PEACE BROTHERS
YOU DID NOT HAVE TO DIE, NOW THE OWNER IS GETTING SUED BY MANY OF THE FAMILIES....CHANGE IS IN THE AIR.....
YOUR DEATHS ARE NOT IN VAIN!
P.S. THERE IS A LOT MORE TO COME
never forgetting our FALLEN 9 and how they died
May 14, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
candygirl (anonymous) says...
Enjoy your retirement Rusty.
May 14, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
teddy (anonymous) says...
Chief Rusty Thomas is a wonderful person and everyone with even a negative thought about him should have listened when they were younger, and were told - if you don't have anything nice to say then don't say it at all.
Everyone who has had belittled this man should be ashamed of themselves.
Things were done wrong or not done wrong, they shouldn't have done this or should have done that. Things are done wrong ALL the time. People do things wrong ALL the time, don't tell me you all do everything perfect.
May 14, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
Im not anti, just not my belief. Im sorry, but I am not going to change my ideals, beliefs, or be nice because of someone elses religious beleifs. The fact is than man needs to go. He has needed to go for a long time. People here are posting support and saying to be nice and the truth is they have no idea what happened that night. I sat in my station that night 5 miles from the SSS listening to that fire get out of control and those men die on three radios all the while your "super duper" chief refused help being offered from lots of departments!!! Give me a freeking break! Take the time to learn what happened, take the time to learn firefighting practices before you sing praises. Was rusy a nice guy? Without a doubt. Everytime I talked to the man he was very nice. Does that relieve him of responsibility? NO! That is the point. Just being a "nice guy" does not make you any less guilty.
May 14, 2008 at 1:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
chucktonian (anonymous) says...
as I predicted
as soon as the fire happened, I knew he was out the door.
May 14, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sbs920 (anonymous) says...
the blue blood dwarf is next. . .
May 14, 2008 at 1:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kerwandstarks (anonymous) says...
This is pathetic!
May 14, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bravecharleston9myspace (anonymous) says...
TOMORROW IS COMING.....
May 14, 2008 at 2:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
Thomas1776 - I finally agree with some of your posts. Bet that won't happen again for a long time....
May 14, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
UpperSCFF (anonymous) says...
What amazes me is that you hear about the SSS being a tragic "accident" that could not have predicted. I have an issue with that. The SSS is looked at as an accident by people who are ignorant to the trade of firefighting. There is more to it than meets the eye. It is an occupation that requires you to continuously evolve in order to do "the job" safely and provide the best service that you possibly can. There is an addage in the fire service "When you think that you have learned it all, it is time to retire." With that being said.....
RT, you can "take up" now and go home. Be safe.
May 14, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bzyone2001 (anonymous) says...
I'm glad to see that there are soooo many perfect people in this world typing comments.
I bet all the ones making negative comments could run the world. If in fact you could maybe you should step and and make it a perfect world. It makes me sick that all of you can sit here and blame him 100% for all of this. Anyone ever question who was the last one on the smoking dock that started it all. I guess they are not so perfect either.
May 14, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LifetimeLearner (anonymous) says...
The fact that he knocked out the windows in the front of the store, causing a flashover shows this man's stupidity. The fact that he refused water from other agencies shows his stupidity. I hope he would change his actions if he had the chance to repeat them, but these instances alone are enough to have him fired or force resignation. These are two things that DIRECTLY contributed to the death of these 9 brave men. Now, hopefully they do not hire another "good ole boy" to take his place. The time for change is now!
May 14, 2008 at 2:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
stonoliving (anonymous) says...
Lots of Monday morning quarterbacking going on. Where were the firefighters and YOW prior to the fire? Why didn't they have mutiny if they knew the dept was behind in equipment, training, etc? These same individuals now have found they have a mouth to speak with yet did nothing before. They would rather say I can't do anything. (Even though they knew it was an accident waiting to happen and someone could be killed).
They are just as guilty for the deaths of the Chas 9 as the man giving the order. Let's look at all of the facts and not hind sight.
I hope each and every fireman guilty of not being aggressive to improve their station will also remember their brother prior to closing their eyes every night.
It seems to be much easier to point the finger then to be pro active for a life saving cause.
Rusty you still have a lot of support.
May 14, 2008 at 2:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
bzyone2001
We are in the buisness of putting out fire. It is an unsafe career field, granted. However, there are also things that fire officers do to bring down that risk. Training, modern gear, moderen firefighting practices, incident command, accountability. You cannot blame a total command breakdown on the guy smoking on the loading dock. Nor did he cause the city to use 2 1/2 inch supply or booster lines. He did not order windows broken out, or refuse help from other departments. Period.
May 14, 2008 at 2:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
acharlestongirl (anonymous) says...
Chief Rusty, if by chance you are reading this, THANK YOU for all you have done for the city. Your service to the city, your dedication to your men and your loyalty are sorely missing in this world today.
Thank you. Wishing you blessings and abundance and peace.
May 14, 2008 at 2:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
stonoliving
They were there. Do your research on what the union presented several years ago.
May 14, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
stonoliving (anonymous) says...
jifdeng3
They presented it but they "DID NOT PURSUE IT" and according to you SEVERAL YEARS AGO............ I'm glad you don't have my back.
May 14, 2008 at 2:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
OK, What the hell are you talking about your back? Your right, they didnt pursue it. Why? Because this state refuses to recognize worker rights. Until that happens employees really cant do much. If they try, well then they are looking for another job.
May 14, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
Thomas - that email was an invitation. This time, I was actually complimenting you. Dork.
May 14, 2008 at 2:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
stonoliving (anonymous) says...
jifdeng3
I would rather lose my job then my life or the life of one of my comrades. It is a horrible situation to be in but you have to always fight for your beliefs and a life is a life.
May 14, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ThinkAboutThis (anonymous) says...
THE FALLEN 9 WOULD BE HORRIFIED WITH THE WAY THE COMMUNITY IS REACTING TOWARDS THEIR CHIEF!!!!
NOTHING WILL CHANGE WHAT HAS HAPPENED- THE FAMILIES HAD BEEN PAID MILLIONS (though it doesn't bring their loved one back but does secure their futures) AND SO LIFE SHOULD GO ON IN PEACE FOR THEIR HONOR!!!!!
May 14, 2008 at 2:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
I agree to a point. Firefighters are different sort of people. We know what we face and we do the job anyway. Its a calling that most of us cannot walk away from. Jumping departments does not do too much because all have issues. Staffing in this are of the county is the biggest jokes. Some ride only two on a unit. Do we know its wrong, yes, can we do something about it? Most of the time no. More people means more taxes. Unfortunatly we are at the mercy of politicians, but still we go to work and risk our lives and make due. Whats different about RT? Well, he refused to at least try to meet what standards he could. He was not even aware of NIMS-ICS. Thats what makes it criminal. His complete disregard to modern practice in the name of tradition.
May 14, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goosecreekgurl (anonymous) says...
Where is the blame on the part of the owners of the Sofa Super Store? If I remember correctly, they were warned on more than one occasion that this could and probably would happen should a fire ever break out in that building due to the lack of a proper sprinker system since their system was so ANTIQUATED. If I also remember correctly, the owners of Sofa Super Store DID NOT want to bear that expense. I think that you people are pathetic to point that finger at this man that has served our fine city for over 30 years. Most of you have never (and would never) step foot inside a burning building. Everybody is always quick to talk about or blame bad things on whoever is convenient at the time. But nobody remembers the good that people do such as....
Who takes time to remember examples like when a house is on fire with 2 children trapped inside and these men couragously risk their own lives to get the children out safely and alive. Or when they are first on the scene to save a choking baby or first on the scene to remove and save an elderly lady that is trapped in a mangled car due to an accident? I'll tell you who.... NOBODY!!! I have tremendous respect for Chief Thomas and "his crew" and I thank him from the bottom of my heart for all of his fabulous service!
May 14, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JohnS (anonymous) says...
The chief is a good man. I say now Riley needs to go down the list of members of the union and get rid of all the trouble makers.
May 14, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
ThinkAboutThis
How can you say what the 9 would think?
May 14, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
Goosecreekgurl - I don't mean this to be mean-spirited at all, but if your name implies that you LIVE in Goose Creek (and not simply FROM Goose Creek), CFD and Rusty Thomas don't serve you. I understand that you may be speaking by "proxy", and if so, then ignore.
But many folks don't even know who their Fire Department is. It is alarming how many have absolutely no idea.
I for one cannot celebrate Rusty at all, after years of ignoring compliance with Safety Standards. One post earlier asked why we never said anything before the fire - well, we did, but those of us who don't work for CFD (and never have) or don't live in the City of Charleston don't have that burden - we have our own issues to deal with. I agree that many CFD personnel probably should have screamed a little louder. There were some that did, by the way. I have known many CFD FFs over the years, and many of them used (until 6/18/07) to brag about how they had their own method of firefighting. They BRAGGED. I don't fault them, I fault the Chief. He even said AFTER the SSS fire how his methods were sound and he wouldn't change. It's sad, but that's the reality.
May 14, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
Ok, Well, I go into burning buildings and I feel compelled to comment some more.
goosecreekgurl (girl?)
If the City had been enforcing fire code and not grandfathering buildings then maybe there would have been a sprinkler system in place. I really dont care how long someone has served the city. The fact is his refusal to update and modernize his department led to the deth of nine men.
JohnS
The so called trouble makers are trying to make the fire department achive MINIMUM standards. Thats the problem with the south. People are ok with the status quo and wont make waves to change anything and if they do they are "troublemakers" Good for them. Make all the trouble you want to make sure this doesn't happen again.
May 14, 2008 at 3:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekguy2008 (anonymous) says...
Teddy, here's a sandbox and some pink glasses. Take your pick and join carolinapanther.
May 14, 2008 at 3:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodnessgracious (anonymous) says...
There is obviously a lot of heated back and forth discussion on this forum.
Bottom line, 9 men were lost and their families and friends are left to forever mourn. Bashing Chief Thomas and Mayor Riley will never bring these men back. Going to the person who had the cigarette is not going to change anything...whoops...you all forgot to mention the cars that drove over the hoses disrupting the water flow...maybe those 100's of people need to be lynched on this forum as well???
We can only hope at this point to learn from mistakes that were made and the necessary changes will be made.
It is always easy to look back at the would of's and could of's and everyone is an authority.
Many of you seem to know a lot about the ins and outs of firefighting so why don't you apply for the newly opened position...and God forbid and forgive you if anything were to happen on your watch.
I know nothing about firefighting and I did read the article about breaking the windows and thought back to when I was a child and learned that oxygen feeds the flames but by that time, that was probably the only miniscule chance of anyone surviving this inferno.
Thank you Mr. Thomas for your service to our city - and also to your wife and kids...and no, I do not know Chief Thomas.
May 14, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
NativeSC (anonymous) says...
All of you who keep saying Riley is next to go are drunk. When was the last time he ran against a credible candidate? Jimmy Bailey is the only one I can remember in the last 5 or 6 elections, and that wasn't close either. Wishing, hoping and praying won't make it so. The "workers rights" thing is a joke too. Look at what the unions have done for the auto industry and many other industries that were very strong for years in the US. They are all now getting their asses kicked by foreign competition. SC does not recognize unions and that is another thing that won't change. God Bless the Charleston 9 and God Bless Chief Thomas.
May 14, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kerwandstarks (anonymous) says...
This reminds me of the morning crowd at Anytown McDonald's, USA. A lot of "hind sight" and "this should happen" but most of the people complaining have done nothing with their lives other than try to bring down the people that have.
May 14, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goosecreekgurl (anonymous) says...
svilleswampfox-I'm simply FROM goose creek. It's been my e-mail for many years. Just has never changed. Which has nothing to do w/ my comment, by anyhoo....
jifdeng3- If it was ENTIRELY the job of the Chief to "enforce the fire code" and not the job of some sort of "Code Enforcement", then WHY WERE PEOPLE NOT ON CHIEF THOMAS' BEHIND TO "MODERNIZE HIS DEPARTMENT" PRIOR TO THE TRAGEDY OF 6/18/07? Before that date, he was doing a FINE job serving alot of you COMPLAINERS!!! Then something horrible happens and there goes the finger pointing.
May 14, 2008 at 3:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jadmom (anonymous) says...
JohnS, yes Rusty is a good man, but that doesn't mean he's a good leader. Things went wrong and things have not been up to par and unfortunately someone has to be accountable. Mistakes that were made that night directly filter down to the man in charge. As the mother of a firefighter I think the right thing happened today. Rusty will retire, get his benefits and everything for him will be OK. We wish him the best of luck and we also look forward to the changes that are sure to come. To call the guys in the union "troublemakers" is ridiculous. If Rusty didn't think his retirement NEEDED to happen, he wouldn't have submitted it, nor would the mayor have accepted it.
May 14, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jameschucktown (anonymous) says...
Thomas, looks like you are off your medication again--or still, or are self medicating. You are one warped person and you deserve the miserable life you have.
May 14, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ThinkAboutThis (anonymous) says...
How can you say what the 9 would think?
They were respectful firemen- part of a brotherhood- all united as one-
There were many, many mistakes on that tragic day- and none of this ranting and display of disrespect will change the facts-
May 14, 2008 at 4 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jadmom (anonymous) says...
scnative4ever: I really don't think that Rusty is being burned at the stake. Again, yes, he's probably done a lot for the community over the years and YES, he's a great guy. But... have you listened to the news or read anything from the NIOSH report? If you had a child or husband who was with the department, you may feel differently. Also, read Randy Hutchinson's (Billy's brother) comments on firefighterhour.com and firehouse.com
May 14, 2008 at 4:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
JohnS (anonymous) says...
jadmom: Many of the firemen are employees of the city and not residents. There are troublemaking members of that union that need to be unemployed from the city payroll. The city should do the right thing for the voters of the city.
May 14, 2008 at 4:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jadmom (anonymous) says...
JohnS: I just don't think that standing up for safety (because there are areas where they don't feel safe) should warrant name-calling or dismissal. You make it sound like your fight is more with unions. Why do you, personally, think Rusty stepped down?
May 14, 2008 at 4:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
scnative - I refer you to my last post as to "where we were", or at least where I was. If you can't replay the clips of his speech defending his tactices without getting sick, YOU are the loser. That AFTER the fire speech is what did it for me. You're a moron.
May 14, 2008 at 4:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Michellebonneau (anonymous) says...
Just remember he is a human being, let's not make this any worse than it is already . It's so easy for GOD for forgive but thinks he above GOD and hold anger. Lets not let anger consume us.
May 14, 2008 at 4:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carolinagal (anonymous) says...
Chief, You did a fine job and you should hold you head high. While what happened back in June was a nightmare, I think you have done a wonderful job before and after that in protecting our city! Enjoy retirement.....
May 14, 2008 at 4:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
TP - I don't know for sure because I wasn't at that particular fire, but it is my understanding they were performing a search and rescue operation, and the thought was that someone was still inside. I don't how true that is.
May 14, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jifdeng3 (anonymous) says...
Neat, Now I'm a looser.
First off, Let me address the "Rusty was a nice guy" Crowd. Who cares. That has nothing to do with running a professional fire department. Congrats that he helped the community, Im proud of him. Like I said before. He is a very nice person.......whos neglagence caused the death of nine brothers. Thats the BOTTOM LINE! Do I believe he should see jail? No, but he should be held responsible. Most of the people singing praises in here have no clue about the fire service. They just see the shell, the praises from a misguided mayor, and the poor rusty fan club. No you know who is truly suffering? The families of the nine, both the blood famaily and the FD family. Now lets get to that. I hate to tell you people that if a different set of men had died then the none that did would be in the same place as us. Fighting for change against all the naysayers. Im sorry if you cannot see where we are coming from, but we are fighting the good fight.
Oh, and good job on the name calling. Real mature. How about discuss the issues and your opinion. I don't berate anyone for their opinion so I would appriciate the same courtsey. Everyone here deserves that no matter their view on the situation.
May 14, 2008 at 4:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekguy2008 (anonymous) says...
Rusty is admitting his guilt by retiring. He KNOWS he was wrong, so he retires to hold his head in shame because now, the fire report comes out and he has no where to hide. Anyone on this message board sell real estate? Want a listing? Rusty just might move out of the area, too.
May 14, 2008 at 5:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svilleswampfox (anonymous) says...
Thomas - spin your crap in someone else's direction that cares. At least when on forum, I comment within the topic and your opinion of it. If you want to jab off-topic, message me directly. Your legal threats don't disguise your true self.
May 14, 2008 at 5:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekguy2008 (anonymous) says...
Oh, and I'm so glad the P&C let us know that Mimi's on James Island had the support the fire chief sign up.
I used to like their food. I'll be finding a new cafe'.
May 14, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jadmom (anonymous) says...
jifdeng3: very well said. As a mom of a FF, I'm so glad y'all have called for change.
May 14, 2008 at 5:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hobo (anonymous) says...
Bye.
May 14, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
svESinKW (anonymous) says...
Geek:
Instead of piling on Mimi's -- whose owners are friends of mine and who are intelligent and kind people -- why don't you find out the names of ALL the businesses who expressed support for the Chief and publicly boycott them, too?
I doubt Mimi's will miss your patronage. The place is always full and there are plenty of customers out there to take your place.
May 14, 2008 at 5:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
walleyedwoman1215 (anonymous) says...
A retired NYC battalion chief told me, "Rusty Thomas will relive that night for the rest of his life. On the day he dies, that will be his last thought."
What an ignominious end.
May 14, 2008 at 6:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
magoo (anonymous) says...
he retired before he gets fired
May 14, 2008 at 6:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
luvmydogs59 (anonymous) says...
I turned on the news around 5:40 pm this evening (Live 5) and lo and behold, there was Mayor Riley on the Talkback segment of the news. I apparently missed the majority of it, but he said that he believed that this retirement would be the best thing for Rusty. What I felt like yelling to him was that it is the best thing for Charleston, but way too late! (I live in Berkeley County, so even though I am served by a different fire department, the issue still hits close to home...no matter where you live).
The anchorman then asked Mayor Riley if he had any intention of stepping down. Of course, the answer was an emphatic NO! Too bad, Charleston deserves better.
May 14, 2008 at 6:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
UpperSCFF (anonymous) says...
I would like to pose a question to all of the Rusty Thomas supporters.
What if Rusty Thomas was a general in World Word II and he insisted on the use of trench warfare tactics. The same techniques that were utilized in WWI. His reason to continue with such archaic methods? Because, that's the way we always have done it. It worked in WWI...you fill in the rest. What would have said to the soldiers that would speak out against this situation? Shut-up and die, you troublemakers?
Or, here's one for you sports fans. What would you do about a coach that continuously ran a certain play in a certain situation and had mixed results during the year. However, he insisted on doing this during the big games/playoffs and got his team's butts "served" everytime. Afterwards, when asked why he did it. He said, "Well, it worked before. If given the same situation, I will do it again. Absolutely!" I'm pretty sure even if he/she had the last name of Bowden or Spurrier, bags would be packed in short order. And, that's just a game.
Now you look at a man who was directly involved in the deaths of eight men as the commanding officer of the incident. No matter how you slice it he was the general of the battle. The head coach in the "big game." He was in charge. He directed the push, he made the calls. All the warning signs were there: The large building, the huge fire load and the incredibly large volume of fast-moving, heat-pushed smoke. The incident was "screaming" do not fight this fire in an offensive(going inside)manner. Any risk should have been occupant rescue only. Ignorance, tradition or "just being a good guy" is not a defense in this situation. It was Chief Thomas duty to keep his ability as an executive fire officer at the highest level for both the Citizens and Firefighters of the City of Charleston.
Below is a link to an excerpt from a training video that takes around a half hour. I have had people not associated with the fire service watch this entire video. They then looked at the film footage of the SSS and then said, "What was he thinking?" The information is out there to protect your men. Some choose to obtain it while others insist on doing it the way it has always been done.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ7B54...
May 14, 2008 at 6:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lillycollette (anonymous) says...
He should have been "FIRED"!
May 14, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
charleytowngirl (anonymous) says...
CarolinaPanther,
Isn't your comment to JIFDENG kind of judgemental? I'm a little rusty, but doesn't the good book make some reference about judging others?
May 14, 2008 at 7:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jmatthe2 (anonymous) says...
I was a low country ff for nearly 10 year, and a ff for other jursidictions and states for nearly 20. Having moved in from outside the area I performed my own assessment of what each dept had to offer. I purposely did not apply with the CFD. No 5" hose, the cheapest gear money could buy, polyester uniforms, at the time no PASS, booster reels as primary attack lines...come on!
I agree Rusty is a "good guy". I have had the honor of meeting with him on occasion. But, and this is a big but, he and HIS STAFF turned a blind eye to bringing the department in line with national standards and practices. It is not the ff's responsibility to argue with the department leadership what these practices should be. The leadership should already know! I agree the change happens with the Chief, but where were the Assistant Chiefs and Battalion Chiefs? I really think this problem goes much deeper than Rusty Thomas.
I noticed some want to hang the owner of the SS Store. Why? The City of Charleston is tasked with doing an inspection. Where there code violations? Yes. Was the store called out on them and told to fix them? If they didn't fix the problems then yes, hang the store owner. From what I have read, here were no violations noted. (Newspaper and internet)The sad truth is any good lawyer is 1. waiting for this report to come out before they sue the City, but 2. They stand the chance for a greater settlement through the store owner.
It tears me up to see disention in the ranks at the CFD. But what a great opportunity to leave a legacy on the fire service and turn around a department in a great city.
I said a long time ago it was only a matter of time when the CFD killed some guys. I had no idea it would be 9.
i have one more thing to say. You should ready the Mayor's letter in response to the Chief's resignation. It would sound as if the CFD has already corrected its ways. From the sounds of the firefighters on this board, that is farther from the truth. To the CFD boys good luck every IAFF local is supporting you. I think your new enemy is the MAyor!
May 14, 2008 at 7:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
boboangelpie (anonymous) says...
No he shouldnt have been fired and he wasnt.Nor should he have felt the need to step down,due to a few people like some that have written such hateful words here.SSS was a terrible place for a fire to happen.With all of the cheap furniture and lack of a safe building for business,it wasnt a fire that most fire depts. would have to deal with.Cant blame one person for the loss of these brave men.RT is due some peace of mind and Im sure he will be fine.Now,for all of the people that know so much about fire fighting,how would you have put out that fire?
May 14, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
WTFK (anonymous) says...
Let me start off by saying, that those of you that are not in the fire service or worked for the CFD, you have no idea what these guys went through. Between the videos and the 55 page draft, anyone that has been in the fire service 2 days knows that ALOT went wrong. There were many bad decisions on every level. NOT JUST THE CHIEF. I am not PRO- Chief Thomas, I am PRO-Standards. Read the draft. Firefighters entering and exiting the structure at will.. no accountability. Crews arriving on scene.. no check in. Fire Crews TRAPPED.. no accountability or proper command mayday procedures. Using "1"- 2 1/2 inch supply line, stretched 1200 ft, to supply a fire apparatus??WTF?? Firefighters entering the structure without proper PPE, Unexcusable. Anyway, These are just a few things that stuck out in my mind. I don't know CFD's SOG's or SOP's, or if they even have any. But I feel the guys at the fire house have a valid complaint. I don't work for the CFD and neither do most of you. So we don't know for sure how bad it has been. The bad thing about this that most of you didn't even realize you had a FD until this happened. You just thought those guys laid around and watched T.V. all day.... And now some of you feel as though you experts in fire service leadership and tactics. I take my helmet off to those on here that are from the CFD and are standing up for the ones that are still in the heat...
By the way for the ones that are wondering... I am in the fire service and also a Fire Officer.. Keep up the fight, brothers..
May 14, 2008 at 7:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Ham (anonymous) says...
Chief Thomas was probably 'forced' into retirement much like Chief Greenberg. Charleston has now lost 2 fine leaders of this city.
I support Chief Thomas!
May 14, 2008 at 7:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
UpperSCFF (anonymous) says...
boboangelpie
Bless your heart, Fire Departments across the country deal with these types of fires on a regular basis and deploy accordingly. Maybe to an untrained civilian it may appear to be an accident that could not be avoided. However, to us who are stundents of our professional, it could have turned out much differently. You will see this when all the final reports are issued.
Remember the Nine...PTB-FTM
May 14, 2008 at 8:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LEGALDIVA02 (anonymous) says...
Someone posted that the families got millions for the deaths of the nine firefighters. First, and foremost, no amount of money can replace the lives of those nine men. Second, get your facts straight! Millions? Who told you that? The widow and friend that I know doesn't have millions and is still working everyday to pay the bills. So get your facts straight! Additionally, Chief Thomas knows what his negligence and his lack of skills caused. You can't keep bandaging a hemorrhaging wound and expect it to heal.
While I am empathetic to his plight, I am a realist. Karma is a force with which to be reckoned. He didn't lose nine lives on that day- he lost ten! His own included! It was the beginning of the end for him as well and he has to be held accountable.
But, isn't it fair to say that he shouldn't be required to shoulder ALL of the blame? Anyone who made conscious decisions to cut the fire department's budgets, ignored new compliance regulations and trainings, resisted change and chose faulty policies, and most importantly, knew the risk was there as it was foreseeable that a tragedy, perhaps not one of that magnitude, but a tragedy could occur with the decrepit and archaic equipment our brave men and women are/were forced to wear and use. Even down to the manufacturers of the furniture to the owner of the store who repeatedly received pardons for his non-existent sprinkler systems, etc have to shoulder the blame. The list goes on and on and on.
There is enough blame to go around. But, ultimately, the person(s) who lacked common sense and even the requisite training needed have this cross to bear. As a leader, you should have known that you don't send men in a burning building without substantiating that someone was indeed inside and needed help. And as a Chief, you should know that you never feed a fire oxygen because they cause ...hmmmmmm...flash overs.
And I'm not a firefighter and am not that brave to become one and even I know that little bit of important information.
May 14, 2008 at 8:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
UpperSCFF (anonymous) says...
LegalDiva02, that was one of the best posts that's been associated with the SSS. It puts everything into perspective. Thank You!!
Remember the Nine!!! FTM-PTB
May 14, 2008 at 8:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Reader (anonymous) says...
Rusty Thomas's actions and inactions and his personality caused the needless deaths of nine people. I have no more sympathy for him than I would have for someone who killed a carload of people in a drunk driving accident. Whether or not the deaths were intentional does not make Thomas blameless.
And incidentally, a person does not have to be perfect himself before assigning blame in a case like this, so please stop calling detractors hypocrites. I can't read a single note of music, but I can tell the difference between Beethoven and chopsticks. Likewise, I can see Thomas's gross negligence even though I might have faults myself.
Good riddance!
(Also, Thomas1776 seems to have no knowledge whatsoever of the American legal system or what constitutes an actionable wrong. Please disregard his legal claims.)
May 14, 2008 at 8:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mdtpace (anonymous) says...
geekguy running his cock holder some more. Someone give this jackass a hug, or a laxative.
May 14, 2008 at 9:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
a_set_love (anonymous) says...
Did anyone watch the channel 5 - 6:00 pm - talkback section with Mayor Riley.
Mayor Riley went to great lengths to praise Rusty; finest chief, big shoes to fill, ran the best fire dept in America, etc.
Then he stuck the big knife in Rusty's back.... When asked if the fire department was ever underfunded or denied money it needed by the administration, Mayor Riley responded.
- Chief Thomas received every thing he asked for to operate the fire department - This places the illness for all the lacking and substandard equipment and training directly on Rusty Thomas.
May 14, 2008 at 10:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
geekguy2008 (anonymous) says...
Shhhh, mdtpace! You wouldn't want your obese/pwt girlfriend to find out, would you? It was YOU I was holding!! But I know you enjoyed it, after all, you initiated it.
May 14, 2008 at 10:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Paoa (anonymous) says...
Rusty Thomas will have a nice retirement and the Charleston 9 have their graves. My respect goes to the Charleston 9.
May 14, 2008 at 11:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whycantitbebetterhere (anonymous) says...
Anyone here want to go to work as a public servant? No? Why? I hear the boss (the public) is real nice and easy to work for? No?
May 15, 2008 at 12:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beentook2 (anonymous) says...
Once again the back pew sitters get their way. Charleston doesn't deserve Chief Thomas. His replacement will have to suck up to "union" rats, Washington idiots, local Chief knowitalls after the fact and a variety of political hacks. The replacement may survive a year. The replacement to the replacement may last a little longer. So much for loyalty and dedication to service.
May 15, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bravecharleston9myspace (anonymous) says...
OKAY....HERE WE ARE DAYS LATER....
WHY THE SILENCE......
WHY IS RUSTY'S HEAD THE ONLY ONE THAT ROLLED????
HE IS NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT DID WRONG!!!!
COME ON RILEY!!! WHAT'S UP???
HE.....TAKES THE FALL??????? AND YOU SIT PRETTY AND
AND ALL THE WHILE...STILL NOTHING HAPPENS TO THE SSS OWNER???
THIS IS NOT COOL !!!
May 20, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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