Posted on April 15, 2025

There are certain things that change throughout time, but there are some firehouse traditions that will never be forgotten. In our capacity as members of the Hartford Firefighters Retirees Association, we frequently find ourselves reflecting on the singular rituals, routines, and experiences that had a significant role in shaping our careers. These customs were more than just routines; they were the beating heart of the firehouse, fostering a sense of togetherness that can only be fully comprehended by those who have served in the fire department.

The Hartford Fire Department has a long and illustrious history, and a significant number of our traditions are the result of decades of dedicated service, selflessness, and shared brotherhood. Whether we served for ten years or thirty-five, those traditions eventually became a part of who we are. In this piece, we take a look back at the firehouse traditions that we continue to discuss and will continue to do so in the future.

1. The Communal Meal: More Than Just Food

One of the most cherished traditions among Hartford Firefighters was the shared meal. Cooking together in the firehouse wasn’t just about feeding a crew—it was a bonding ritual. From the aroma of coffee in the early morning to the clatter of pans before dinner, the firehouse kitchen was where friendships deepened.

Each crew had its own culinary legend—someone who could whip up a chili that cleared sinuses or pancakes so fluffy they became a Sunday tradition. Meals were made with heart, and no matter who was on shift, we always sat down together.

As Retired Firefighters, we still joke about "firehouse spaghetti" or that one rookie who burned toast every day for a month. These memories connect us. They remind us that sharing a meal was about more than food—it was about trust, laughter, and being a family.

2. Roll Call and Morning Rituals

Every shift at the Hartford Fire Department began with a roll call—a simple act that carried great significance. We lined up, listened to the day's updates, checked our gear, and got mentally prepared for whatever the day might bring. It was the calm before the storm.

There was a rhythm to these mornings. Coffee cups in hand, a quick scan of the truck, the sound of radios checking in. Even the weather report shared in the briefing shaped how we approached our day. For many of us, these routines grounded us in purpose.

As HFDretirees, we still remember how these rituals set the tone. They weren’t grand gestures, but they kept us sharp and in sync. These moments were quiet but powerful—a symbol of readiness and shared responsibility.

3. Pranks, Nicknames, and Laughter

The firehouse was a place of deep seriousness—but also one of joy. Humor was survival. Between calls, we filled the time with light-hearted pranks, clever nicknames, and laughter that echoed through the halls.

Every house had its prankster. From hiding someone’s boots in the freezer to switching sugar with salt, the jokes were endless (and mostly harmless). These moments helped balance the heavy nature of our work. They reminded us that even in the face of danger, we were human.

The nicknames we earned stuck for life. Some of us are still called those names today. These were signs of belonging—you knew you were part of the crew when your nickname showed up on the locker instead of your last name.

4. Celebrating Milestones, Big and Small

Firehouse tradition meant celebrating everything—birthdays, promotions, final shifts before retirement. Whether it was a surprise cake in the kitchen or a formal ceremony, every occasion mattered. We honored each other’s moments because they were victories for all of us.

The Hartford Fire Department understood the value of recognition. A firefighter’s first call, a save, a medal—each was remembered. We passed stories down like heirlooms, proud of every achievement our brothers and sisters accomplished.

As Retired Firefighters, we still gather to celebrate milestones. Reunions, retirements, and memorials keep us connected. They help us pass the torch and let us reflect on just how much these small traditions meant to us.

5. Honoring Those We Lost

It is possible that commemorating those who are no longer with us is the most revered of all the customs that are used in firehouses. When it came to remembering those who had passed away, the Hartford Fire Department never took the matter lightly. Whether it was at memorials, bell ceremonies, or funerals, we all stood together in full dress to pay tribute to the lives of those who sacrificed everything during their lives. 

Our organization ensures that these customs are carried on continuously. The HFDretirees are dedicated to honoring the memories of our members who have passed away, including our brothers and sisters. During each and every gathering and event, we tell their tales, pay our respects at their graves, and continue to carry on their legacy.

To us, this isn’t just about the past. It’s about showing respect, staying united, and never forgetting the price that some paid. It’s about the promise we made—to stand together, even after service ends.

Conclusion: Tradition Never Retires

There is a way that traditions continue to exist. It is not in the form of manuals that they are written; rather, they are transmitted via the sharing of laughs in the kitchen, at coffee breaks, and over dinner tables. It was via these rituals that Hartford Firefighters were able to survive the job, enjoy the good, and honor the struggles that we had to endure. They turned out to be the solid groundwork for our professions and the very essence of our firehouses. 

As Retired Firefighters and proud members of the Hartford Firefighters Retirees Association, we continue to uphold those traditions in the present day. We continue the festivities, we continue to share the tales, and we maintain a connection to the principles that have defined our years of continuous service.

If you’re a retired Hartford firefighter, a family member, or someone who wants to learn more about our legacy, we welcome you. Reach out anytime at [email protected] to connect, share , or join us in preserving what matters most. Because even in retirement, we remain part of something bigger.