By Bill Carey
FireRescue1
DETROIT — The Detroit Fire Department is mourning the loss of its cherished photographer and friend, Bill Eisner, who passed away at the age of 87.
Eisner, known for capturing the spirit and resilience of Detroit’s firefighters, left a lasting legacy among those who worked alongside him, FOX 2 Detroit reported.
“Bill was both a big deal but down-to-earth,” Lieutenant Shannon Moran said. “He was just a nice man. I’m going to miss him. A lot of people are. It’s hard.”
For many firefighters, Eisner’s photographs were an essential part of their careers, marking significant milestones with warmth and care. Lieutenant Joe Palm recalled Eisner’s presence at his very first fire.
“My very first day in the firehouse, he was at my first fire,” Palm said. “He said, ‘Palm, I got a picture of you.’ Within an hour he would go get it printed at Costco or Sam’s Club and get it printed. ‘Here’s your first fire, kid.’”
That photograph has special meaning for Palm, as Eisner also photographed Palm’s father when he was a firefighter, creating a lasting connection between generations.
At the Squad 3 firehouse, walls lined with Eisner’s photographs pay tribute to his work. Though not an official museum, the gallery serves as a testament to Eisner’s dedication to capturing the lives of Detroit firefighters.
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