Mainline - San Francisco Firefighters Local 798

Tom,
Since my entry into the San Francisco Fire Department in 1950, this is what I worked on
with the Local 798:
I worked with Bob Callahan, the President for many years.
Fred Baumeister, setting up the first study-scope for promotions in the SFFD.
Frank Minahan, setting up maximum numbers on all promotion lists.
Bill Roberts on ballot measures.
I worked many years with Jim Fergosen, especially on the 1974 entry list and more.
The Gage-Babcock report that attempting to cut the SFFD by at least 25% (1969)
I worked on the committee for the “Like-pay Work Ordinance”.
I was an active member for over 32 years and attended most of the monthly meetings.
I still have strong ties with Local 798 and they give much support to our retired
firefighters and widows and many other of this type of organizations.
Again, Tom, for over 60 years I always “Tip my hat" to all the men, past and present that
have done so much for Local 798 and the fire department and its citizens of San Francisco.
Chuck
Unions and Their Strength
By: Chuck Lee, Ret.
With so much negative talk of Unions and their strength, I
would like to offer my thoughts on the subject. I joined the SFFD
in February of 1950. At that time, being a World War II Vet, I
was entitled to turn–outs from the government. To my surprise,
I received a $5 check monthly for one year. Why? My $285
monthly was $5 under minimum standard wages at that time,
which was $290.
Can you imagine that? For a job so hazardous as firefighting,
with little or no safety equipment, and finally, working a 72 hour
work-week! Incidentally, much of the safety equipment came
from strong union activities that gave firefighters the protection
they needed to do this very difficult work.
For the past 60 years, with the help of Local 798, the citizens of
San Francisco, and much work on all of our parts, we have given
the public their money’s worth many times over. I can attest to
that. The
citizens have done their part in showing appreciation by voting
us many benefits. Local 798 and its past and present members
should be proud of their accomplishments.
Now we hear so much talk about fighting the unions and taking
away many of their hard-earned benefits. Why is it that the socalled
venture capitalists with their billions are picking on firefighters,
the people who give their best at all times and in many
hazardous situations? If this ballot measure comes up this year,
you can count on my support as best I can. The public should
be kept aware of what is going on. All members of Local 798,
past and present, again, should be proud of the past 60 years
and more.
Finally, I will join the fight to defeat those who oppose us with
their self-centered motives. I read that even our esteemed Mr.
Adachi does not pay for his pension.
Pier 45 October 16, 1929 (1926?)
20 Main Line www.sffdlocal798.org