Bernard Mark served as a firefighter with the FDNY for over three decades, his experiences are more than tales of bravery—they are reflections of a life devoted to public safety and community service. Now residing at The Bristal Assisted Living, Bernard provides us with glimpses into his past career and the transition to a new chapter of life.

Bernard's Career with the FDNY

Bernard didn't plan on becoming a firefighter, in fact he was working for the post office at the time when his friend reached out to him and told him to take the test to be in the FDNY. After 4 years of waiting, Bernard got the call to join the force. "It was a no brainer," said Bernard.

During his 32 years with the FDNY, Bernard served many communities including Far Rockaway and Harlem. His team was sent to anything from small fires to big fires, including larger events like train collisions and plane crashes.

Bernard was injured during a fire rescue in a large Queen Anne-style home when a piece of the ceiling fell on him. Despite this, he remained on the force and became the driver for Assistant Chief Donald Burns. Bernard served as Donald's driver for 12 years until his retirement in 1999. Tragically, Donald lost his life during the September 11th, 2001 attacks on the Twin Towers.

"Donald was a very nice gentleman. He knew his stuff better than anyone else I had worked with," Bernard recalled. "I knew at least 35 firemen who didn't make it that day."

Moving to The Bristal 

For Bernard, transitioning to assisted living was a decision made with careful consideration. He says his daughter, Allison, helped him pick The Bristal. "She hit a homerun," said Bernard.

Although Bernard has only been at The Bristal for a few months, he says he is adjusting quickly thanks to the compassionate staff and welcoming residents. Much like the first responders Bernard spent his career with, he said the team members want to assist with whatever he needs. Bernard said, "You have to have somebody involved who wants to help people. I don't take it for granted."

Bernard's room is adorned with memorabilia from his firefighting days. He wears his well-worn FDNY hat with pride, a reminder of his long and dedicated career. "I like to think I rescued people," Bernard said humbly.

It's an Honor to Serve those Who Served

The Bristal is proud to support our Hometown Heroes, those brave men and women who dedicated their lives to keeping us safe and protecting our freedom. 

To learn more about how veterans benefits can be used to help pay for assisted living, please read our VA Benefits Guide. To read about people who live at The Bristal who have served our country proudly, please read this article profiling a few of our residents.

For more information about the discounted, special rate we offer to all of our Hometown Heroes, please contact one of our communities for information.