Miraculous Rescue

by Len Lakin

Left to right, carrying Anthony Porter, Jr. (age 6) are Fireman Dave Smith, Engine 3-B and Fireman John White, Truck 3-C.  Rear: Engineer Paul Fulton, Engine 3-B.
 

    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.

Anthony with firemen friends.