Ep. 31: Glenn Usdin
In Episode 31 of The Volly House Podcast, we welcome Chief Glenn Usdin, whose life in the fire service is as vivid as the photographs he’s taken. With over 40 years of firefighter experience, he’s served as a chief, fire apparatus expert, investigator, educator, and is also a renowned fire photographer and author.
Chief Usdin has dedicated his career to preserving firefighter history and culture through his lens and leadership. His evocative work — including the acclaimed project They Saved New York — combines decades of on-scene firefighting with compelling visuals that tell powerful stories of courage and sacrifice.
A Career Framed by Fire & Photography
Chief Usdin’s journey began in the suburbs of New York, captivated early by the rhythm of fire sirens and the sight of brave crews in action.
Volunteer Roots: He started in the Massapequa Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as a company officer, fire prevention and public relations specialist for 15 years.
Apparatus Expertise: He then entered the fire apparatus world, learning the trade from the ground up and eventually founding Command Fire Apparatus, supplying rigs nationwide.
Leadership in PA: In 1991, he became the first Fire Chief of the Lancaster Township Fire Department in Pennsylvania, later transitioning to Deputy Chief and serving on the department's board.
Capturing Fireground Realities
Beyond the helmet, Chief Usdin has spent over five decades capturing the essence of firefighting through photography:
Firefighting Through the Lens: His images—both action-packed and reflective portraits—tell the raw and human side of firefighting, informed by his firsthand experience on the fireground.
Legacy in Print: His work culminated in They Saved New York, a visual tribute to FDNY firefighters across eras. The book blends striking photography with narratives that honor the people behind the gear and rigs.
Elevating the Profession: By publishing these stories and photos, Chief Usdin keeps history alive, reminding firefighters and civilians alike of the sacrifices made in the line of duty.
Leadership Beyond the Flash
Chief Usdin is not just an observer—he’s a leader who has shaped departments and guided growth.
Leading Diverse Communities: From Long Island to Lancaster County, he’s led in volunteer and suburban settings alike, adapting to diverse needs and environments.
Teaching & Mentoring: Whether coaching recruits or guiding seasoned officers, he brings both wisdom and warmth to training.
The Importance of Memory: For him, capturing images goes hand-in-hand with responsibility—preserving what we were so future generations can understand and build on it.
Takeaways Through the Lens of Usdin
Your impact often lasts longer than your shift. Chief Usdin’s photography shows that a moment captured can shift how we view service and sacrifice.
Experience plus narrative creates connection. When history is told by those who lived it, it resonates.
Leaders preserve, mentors inspire. By honoring the past, they fuel future generations.
Visual storytelling enriches fire culture. It bridges tradition and innovation in powerful ways.
🎧 Listen to Episode 31 now on all major platforms
💬 Reflect on the episode at vollyhousepodcast.com or share your thoughts with us @VollyHousePodcast
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