The Retired Firefighter

(Written By: Priscilla Cassase)


Dominic Cassase has been a retired New York City Firefighter for 11 years. He spent 20 years on the job; working in Woodlawn Bronx and Bedford-Stuyvesant Brooklyn.

He was forced to retire after several job related injuries to his knees, ending his career. Now he’s living the retired life, which to his and many other retiree’s surprise is not what was expected.

When Dominic was asked “What was your ideal for a retired lifestyle?”. He went on to say that for several years he knew he would have house projects to catch up on, the ones he missed while he was working. Then, he thought, he would slip into an effortless life. To his amazement it didn't play out that way in the least.

Moreover, I then asked, “How it was different?”. He began to laugh, then continued to explain how, ironically, he has been working non stop for the past 11 years. He further stated, “Everyday is a Saturday,” pointing out that every task and activity is not forced upon him but are still somewhat impending. The reality of his retirement was an absolute in version of his dream.

Dominic was asked if he would change anything about his retirement and although the ongoing workload wasn't his preference, he would not alter it. After several minutes of conversing, he clearly expressed that to his astonishment his income is larger than it was while employed. He really does love being retired.

Many who are forced to retire live with a dissatisfaction of not completing everything they’ve desired. When I asked Dominic if this was a regret for him, he said it was not, for the most part. One of Dominic’s unaccomplished desires was, first, to become a rescue firefighter at a special company. Second, being promoted as an officer.

Even though it was a regret, he had not made any real attempt to become a rescue fireman. Despite the fact those wishes were unfulfilled, they did not compare to all the benefits he obtained while working there. Dominic made note that he left the job with a certain level of confidence after 20 years of service, as well as the ability to overcome stressful and fear inducing situations on a much higher level than the majority.

There are many positive perks with leaving this line of work, but I was curious to see the negative ones. When I asked, he seemed to strain for a moment to find an answer. He then hesitantly stated that there was a certain cynicism towards others that had developed. Perhaps a prejudice or skepticism against many people.

With that being said there are still countless bonuses, one of which is hand skills. Dominic has a bountiful knowledge of all types of tools, construction and even several kinds of knots and how to work with locks. Being retired, Dominic feels enormously satisfied and accomplished from his years of service and is not in the least regretful of his choice of employment. Now, as a retiree, he his comfortable and confident with his life at home.