On Friday, Michele Fitzsimmons became the New York City Fire Department's first female deputy chief. Fitzsimmons, a 24-year veteran of the FDNY, was promoted from battalion chief to deputy chief. Her appointment is said to be highest ranking of female within the department's fire operations.

Battalion Chief Michele Fitzsimmons — a 24-year veteran who joined the FDNY a few months before 9/11—  was named Deputy Chief of fire operations at a packed promotion ceremony in Queens.