"20 & Out" Pensions

04/06/23 • 4 min

As a public safety officer, one of the most important benefits you earn is dignified retirement via your pension. While a 25-year career is typical in many places, some pension systems allow police officers and firefighters to retire after 20 years of service. However, these "20 and out" policies are often not without political controversy.

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FDNY Fire Marshal Commander Saved By Off-Duty Police Officer, Firefighters

A New York City fire marshal commander is recovering after being saved by a Bedford (NY) police officer, a Yonkers (NY) fire captain, and a retired FDNY firefighter, who successfully performed CPR on him when he collapsed while playing basketball last month.

CJ Kanelopoulos, 49, had just come off the court at St. Joseph's gym in Bronxville, NY, on March 6 and was drinking water when he passed out on the court. Retired FDNY Firefighter Bob Peterson, Bedford Police Officer Tom Keane, and Yonkers Fire Captain Steve Lawlor were also playing basketball. They rushed to his side, where they found Kanelopoulous unconscious.

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Fire-Based vs. Private EMS

When people dial 911 to report a medical emergency, they expect an immediate response from local emergency medical providers tasked with providing critical life-saving care in their area. But far too often and in far too many places, the private ambulance companies contracted to respond to them put their bottom line above service. As a result, emergency units are often unexpectedly "browned out" or closed due to staffing or budget issues.