Squad 23 went into service December 1, 1949. It was primarily a manpower unit with a Captain and 7 Firemen with breathing apparatus, various special tools and rescue equipment. They had a special first alarm district extending to Washington on the South, Alvarado West, L.A. River on the North and East. They responded to large fires any where. There were side benches in the specially built vehicle for the men and as soon as a fie was knocked down they returned to service leaving the overhaul to other companies. When Station 9 opened November 1, 1960 the Squad moved there.
This month's cover picture did not "land in the money" in the Contest, but did qualify for an "honorable mention" award. It was taken by Helen Brush, photographer for the Los Angeles, California, Daily News, when fire destroyed an old brick building in that city. A pet shop in the basement of the building contained a number of animals in cages. After the fire was extinguished fire fighters were surprised to find that some of the animals had survived the heat of the fire and the large amount of water used for extinguishment.
Engine 23 of the Los Angeles Fire Department trying to warm up one of the soaked survivors. The photo has taken prizes in several other photographic contests.
Engine 23 as it appears today.
Currently Engine 23 is in the care of an artist named Daniel Taylor.