Carlos M. Rivera facts for kids

Carlos M. Rivera (1934 – October 12, 2020) was a very important leader in the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). He made history as the first Hispanic person to become the Fire Commissioner. This was a big deal because the department had been around for 127 years!

Mayor David Dinkins chose him for this top job. Carlos Rivera became the 27th Fire Commissioner for New York City. He started his role on January 1, 1990, and served until August 31, 1993.

Carlos Rivera's Career in Firefighting

Carlos Rivera was born in 1934 in New York City. His parents had moved there from Puerto Rico. He grew up in New York and went to school there.

Joining the Fire Department

On July 23, 1958, Carlos Rivera joined the New York City Fire Department. He worked very hard and moved up through different leadership roles. At first, he worked in the Bronx area of New York.

In 1964, he was promoted to a lieutenant. A lieutenant is a leader who supervises a team of firefighters. After this promotion, he moved to work in Manhattan.

Becoming Fire Commissioner

On January 1, 1990, New York City Mayor David N. Dinkins appointed Carlos Rivera as the 27th Fire Commissioner. This was a huge responsibility.

As commissioner, he was in charge of the entire fire department. This included managing a large budget of $634 million. He was also responsible for leading about 11,500 firefighters.

Leading During Emergencies

Carlos Rivera was the Fire Commissioner during a major event. This was the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. He led the fire department's efforts to respond to this emergency. His leadership helped guide the firefighters during a very difficult time.

Leaving His Role

Carlos Rivera decided to step down from his position on August 31, 1993. He said he was leaving for "family reasons and health considerations."

Carlos Rivera passed away on October 12, 2020. He was 86 years old.

See also

• List of Puerto Ricans
• New York City Fire Commissioner