Accession Number: C.2020.64.1
Dimensions: 7.5 in X 11 in X 14 in
Dimensions (Metric): 19.05 cm X 27.94 cm X 35.56 cm
Credit Line: Gift of Special Agent Robert Irwin
Description
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) rescue helmet. The helmet is bright blue with a cap-style brim, rubber impact rim, and chin strap. "ATF" appears on both sides of the helmet in yellow reflective stickers. An American flag sticker is affixed to the back of the helmet. On the front is a black and red leather front piece with "ATF | Agent" in white letters. The helmet has significant damage to the top and side with exterior scuffing.
Historical Notes
Robert Irwin joined the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) in 1992 in the New York Field Division, where he specialized in investigating fires, arson and explosives. He was at 6 World Trade Center on February 26, 1993, when the World Trade Center was bombed by terrorists, and played a small role in the agency’s incident response, primarily answering telephone calls at a command center.
Irwin was at home in New Jersey on September 11, 2001. Learning that a plane had struck the World Trade Center, he decided to drive into lower Manhattan. In the trunk of his car was a blue rescue helmet, issued to him by ATF in connection with his responsibilities as a responder to incidents involving fire or explosives. He wore the helmet while searching for human remains at Ground Zero.