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During the early morning hours of October 12, 1969, our
Department faced a critical life-hazard fire
problem. First units to arrive at 320 South
Rampart, found a three-story older apartment building
well involved with fire.
Several of the occupants could be seen hanging
precariously from windows. Fire, which had started
in the basement, rapidly communicated up open
stairwells, trapping occupants living above the ground
floor.
Immediate fire fighting and rescue operations resulted
in the rescue of over 30 occupants of the
building; however, eight persons residing on the
upper floors fell victim to the superheated gases and
perished.
Although his entire family died in the fire,
six-year-old Anthony Porter, Jr. was miraculously
saved. He was discovered on the kitchen floor of
his third-floor apartment. Faint signs of life
were detected by Captain Jack Bennett, Firemen Dave
Smith and John White of Engine 3. Immediately,
mouth-to-mouth resuscitation was administered and the
boy was carried from the building where artificial
respiration was continued.
Little Anthony is living testimony of the skill and
ability of the Los Angeles City Firemen to perform in a
time of crisis.
Thanksgiving was celebrated by little Anthony Porter
with his firemen friends at Engine 3.
Anthony is now living at a foster home in the City of
Commerce with his new foster brother. His new
brother is 8 years old and thoroughly enjoys Anthony's
company. |
