Anthony Stratton

Anthony “Tony” Stratton was appointed to the NHFD in 1968 during the 56-hour work week era and was assigned to Hook & Ladder Company #1 at Central Station. At the start of the 42-hour work week in 1970 he continued at Central Station until 1981 when he was transferred to Engine Company #5 at the Woodward Avenue station in the Annex. In 1986 he moved on to Hook & Ladder Company #6 at the Whitney Avenue Station. Tony retired on April 26, 1989 with an unblemished record of service.

He was part of seven firefighting awards.

Four Unit Citations were received for performance at major fires. Two Unit Citations were garnered at major incidents when assigned to Central Station and one with his Company at Whitney Station and one while at Engine Company #5.

On June 14, 1969 the Yale Art & Architect high rise building erupted into a three-alarm blaze on the upper floors and for several hours the action was hot and heavy for those at the scene. Board of Fire Commissioners recognized all with a commendation.

At a three-alarm fire on January 26, 1985 at 2 a.m. the Honorable Board of Fire Commissioners recognized the actions of the firefighters at 148-150 Davenport Avenue and commended all including Tony and his company.

And once again on July 8, 1988 Tony and his company and numerous others were on the scene for hours battling a four-alarm afternoon blaze at Starter Sportswear on James Street in Fair Haven. Many were overcome with smoke as the fierce blaze raged out of control. Another commendation was received from the Board of Fire Commissioners.

Tony was a loyal and dedicated member of New Haven Firefighters Local 825. It was always a proud day with the firefighter’s union being a part of the annual Saint Patrick Day parade in New Haven and marching along were the three Stratton (Phil, Pat & Anthony) brothers, all honorable members of New Havens Bravest. Sadly, Anthony entered into eternal rest on January 29th at the age of 82. May he and his brothers rest in peace.