As you know, since retiring from the NYPD I have
written four mystery / suspense books and a fifth one currently in the editing process. What you might not know is that, since 1985, I have
also been an avid collector of NYPD items. In addition to actively collecting,
I also enjoy the history of the Department, especially as it pertains to the
cloth insignia.
In 2011, I was provided with a photograph that showed the
nine original applicants for the NYPD’s Aviation Bureau. As I examined the
photograph I was astounded at what I saw. In that black and white photo,
appeared to be the hood cowling from an ESU truck, nearly a year before the
Emergency Service Division was created. What ensued was an exhaustive research
project that would cover the entire spectrum of the insignia of ESU, including
the pre-merger NYC Housing and Transit Emergency Units.
This 147 page book provides well over two hundred color
photos that chronicle a behind the scenes look at not only the history, but the
patches worn by this elite unit. It is a must have for any insignia collector
or anyone just interested in the NYPD or ESU.
I spent years uncovering the stories behind the patches.
From the very first patch, depicted in that original Aviation photo, to the
most current issued one. In many instances I had the privilege of speaking to
the officers and original graphic designers about their work. I even obtained
some first run artwork, to show the progression from graphic proof, to finished
product. It was a process filled with both frustration and exhilaration, often
at the same time, as each new discovery unearthed even more questions.
When the decision finally came to publish this book, I was
faced with a difficult dilemma. I could choose to go the route of most other
research books, producing it in black and white or go for full color. After
toying with the concept, and doing several pages in black and white, the choice
was clear. After all the hard work that went into creating it, it needed to be
done in color. This has affected the cost, but I truly believe that, in the
end, it was the only way to do justice to this important subject. It is the
book that I would want for my collection and I hope that you will agree.
While the E-Book is currently available through Kindle, the
print version should be released within the next few weeks.
After all this time, I am proud to present to you the
culmination of my work: Uncommon Valor – Insignia of the NYPD Emergency Service
Unit.
