By John Voinché, Group Executive at Tribalco
In emergency response and rescue training, Dennis O’Connell, Tribalco’s director of training, is an unparalleled legend with a remarkable career spanning over 40 years.
My first encounter with Dennis dates back to the late 1980s when a mutual friend, Michael Roop, a co-founder of a rescue training company, introduced us. At that time, Dennis was already making waves as one of the inaugural instructors in this venture, having previously served in the New York Police Department (NYPD) Emergency Services Unit (ESU).
During his two-decade tenure with the NYPD ESU, Dennis amassed an impressive array of accolades, including multiple citations, notably a Silver Star and two Bronze Stars. His commitment to service and expertise became evident through his contributions to the field.
It’s impossible to quantify Dennis’s impact on the countless police officers, firefighters, and industrial rescuers he has trained and mentored throughout his career. The numbers likely reach the thousands, a testament to his enduring dedication to equipping others with life-saving skills.
Having witnessed the evolution of the rescue industry over four decades, I have crossed paths with many remarkable professionals. Yet, Dennis stands out for his exceptional grasp of rescue techniques and a pragmatic, no-nonsense approach to training and emergency response. His wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to excellence set him apart in this demanding field.
Perhaps one of Dennis’ most poignant moments came on a fateful fall day in 2001 at Ground Zero in New York City. Having narrowly escaped tragedy, Dennis displayed extraordinary resilience by immediately directing rescue operations on day one and remaining on the ground for several months. It’s a testament to his courage and leadership in the face of adversity.
Today, Dennis continues to share his expertise through teaching, speaking engagements, and leadership. We are fortunate that he does so while proudly donning the Tribalco uniform. Dennis, your contributions are immeasurable, and we extend our deepest gratitude for the ongoing journey you lead in the world of emergency response.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment, Dennis. The ride continues, and we are privileged to have you at the helm.