This from John Tobin:
How does the song go … “reflections of my life.” Well the pictures here are a reflection of time and how it’s moved on. Throughout that time, it was quite a ride and after 34 years I can’t believe it’s over! I made many friends, some enemies, and pretty much did what I set out to do in 1979 when I was hired by the EFD. (Elgin Fire Department)I said more than once … “one day I rolled under a rig that needed fixing and when I rolled out my first wife had left me, the kids were grown, and I was an old man” … there is a lesson there. Some have changed their colors so many times over the years they become someone completely different. I never thought I was anything special, but I had a special job and I was very fortunate to have it!
There is a saying “don’t confuse me with the facts.” When that became a reality, rather than just a joke … I knew my end was near. So if you will, glance at the pictures and see if any of them will take you on a journey. Time for the next chapter in my life and the EFD will do just fine without me.
As the French say … C’est la vie
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
John Tobin collection
#1 by Mike Mc on April 25, 2014 - 9:14 PM
You should say a few words about the tragic Ben Franklin store fire in Palatine that is recorded in photo two. Who was the Palatine FF in photo one?
Best of luck in your retirement and thanks for your service.
#2 by Keith Grzadziel on April 20, 2014 - 1:23 PM
Congrads on your retirement John! What is the name of your book?
#3 by JOHN TOBIN on April 19, 2014 - 10:40 PM
Thanks for the kind words. I will miss the job but most of all the people in and around it. Once you’re retired you can visit, but it’s not the same…..my book is a biggie for me as I never want the “fallen three” memories to fade. Thanks for posting!
The engine that was totaled was a 1970 … originally it was white and re-painted after about nine years … spent most of it’s time @ sta 5, but was moved to station 2. It was totaled on the tollway after a car crossed the center median on a snowy day back in about 1989. And yes the old station is now the fire barn museum … thanks again!
#4 by ENG17 on April 19, 2014 - 9:08 PM
With all your free time you could always right a book! Oh wait, you already did that, and a darn good one at that! Congrats on your retirement!
#5 by Dennis Saam on April 19, 2014 - 3:06 PM
John, congrats upon retirement.
You will both love it, and miss work.
#6 by Michael M on April 19, 2014 - 11:58 AM
Which Elgin Engine had the accident that looks like it totaled the rig? What year is the ALF in the photos?
#7 by Crabby Milton on April 19, 2014 - 11:23 AM
Nice pictures. In regard That ALF with the light streaks, is that station that is known as the Elgin Fire Barn now?