The *Chicago Sun-Times* recently published a heartfelt article featuring photographs that honor the life of veteran Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief Oswald B. Lewis, who passed away at the age of 89. The piece reflects on his long and impactful career, highlighting his presence during some of the city’s most challenging moments.
Lewis served with the department for over two decades, rising to the rank of battalion chief. He was part of Snorkel Squad 3, one of the busiest units in Chicago, stationed initially at Francisco and Fillmore, then later at Erie and Western. The squad handled around 20 fire calls daily—nearly 7,000 per year—making it a critical part of the city's emergency response.
Kenneth Little, a department historian, described the unit as a "crack outfit" that worked tirelessly. He praised the new flexible snorkels that improved firefighting efficiency and noted how Lewis stood out as a leader. "Everybody knew this guy was going places," he said.
Lewis was known for his hands-on leadership style. He never asked his firefighters to do anything he wouldn’t do himself. Fire Lt. Mike Dineen recalled an incident where he got lost in a basement during a fire, and Lewis came to find him. "We both worked our way back out of there," Dineen remembered.
Retired Deputy District Chief Pete Cunningham also spoke highly of Lewis, noting that he always gave credit to those who performed well. "If you did something worthwhile at a fire, he’d write you up for an award," Cunningham said.
Lewis was a role model for young African-American firefighters in a department that had historically struggled with racial segregation. He joined the force in 1955 and rose through the ranks without the benefit of political connections or family ties. His daughter shared that he worked hard to earn respect, emphasizing that he had to pass rigorous exams and prove himself through performance.
His communication skills also played a key role in his success. Les Outerbridge, a retired fire engineer and co-founder of the Afro American Firefighters League, noted that Lewis was "very soft-spoken, very well-read, and could really hold a conversation with just about everybody."
During the 1968 riots following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Lewis faced not only fires but also violence from angry crowds. Jim Syler, a retired acting battalion chief, recalled that firefighters often needed police escorts to navigate the dangerous streets.
After retiring in 1979, Lewis continued his public service with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the National Safety Council.
The article serves as a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to protecting others, overcoming barriers, and leading with integrity. His legacy lives on in the stories of those he inspired and the communities he helped save.
Thanks, Dan.
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