Become a Volunteer With the Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum

Fire Fighter and her crew at the annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony. Photo copyright Tom Turner.

Would you like to lend a hand in helping to restore a National Historic Landmark? How about a piece of American maritime history? The world's most powerful fireboat? A survivor of 9/11? If any of these have piqued your interest, please lend a hand by volunteering aboard the Fire Fighter! We are seeking out anyone who has an interest in seeing this grand lady returned to her former glory and wants to be part of a dynamic and fun team from all walks of life. No experience necessary, and we can train as required. Large group outings and team-building events are encouraged!

Photo copyright Tom Turner.

Red fire hose spraying water into the ocean from a ship deck on a sunny day.

We are currently seeking volunteers to help us with:

  • Hands-on Restoration
  • Includes painting, sanding, polishing, cleaning, and a wide variety of other tasks for those who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty!
  • Docents and Tour Guides
  • A lower-impact, less dirty way to help out aboard the Fighter. Engage our visitors, lead tours, and share the history of Fire Fighter through guided tours through the ship.
Ship billowing thick, white smoke in harbor, potentially on fire.
Six people standing and seated on a boat deck; buildings and water in the background. Sunny day.

We also have an immediate need for skilled volunteers in the following areas: 


  • Vessel Operations – Active professional mariners with valid USCG licenses to assist with the underway operation of Fire Fighter
  • Marine Engineers: 500 tons and up, diesel and diesel-electric operations experience a major plus. 
  • Captains and Mates: 500 tons and up, twin-screw, twin-rudder experience a major plus
  • Skilled/Hands-on Restoration – People who are skilled in a trade and willing to donate their time and expertise
  • Electricians, both industrial and commercial/household
  • Engineers, diesel experience is a major plus
  • Plumbers
  • Welders

If you want to help, don’t hesitate to email Charlie Ritchie, president director of the Fireboat Fire Fighter Museum; check our Facebook page for regular updates and information about open volunteer projects; or stop by the Fighter and say hello! 

We hope to see you aboard soon!

Help preserve history—call 845-612-1950 or please checking in on the facebook for its current berth, to volunteer and make a difference today.