VULCAN SOCIETY
MEMORIAL PAGE |
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Welcome to the Vulcan Society Memorial Page for Vincent W. Julius
May 20, 1927 - May 8, 2016
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Message From
Paul Ruffins June 16, 2017
Dear Brothers, Sisters and Friends,
I am sorry to just be learning about the death of Captain Julius, who I primarily experienced as one of my father, Capt. John Ruffins’ closest friends in the Vulcan Society. I remember that Mr. Julius was often our guest in Ninevah Beach, Sag Harbor, which had several homeowners who were black firefighters ( including Robbie Robinson FDNY ) due to the invitation of NYFD brother John Brannon who was the informal real estate agent for the development. Dad and Mr. Julius often went sailing together, and were founding members of the IABPF. My sincere condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Dear Brothers, Sisters and Friends,
I am sorry to just be learning about the death of Captain Julius, who I primarily experienced as one of my father, Capt. John Ruffins’ closest friends in the Vulcan Society. I remember that Mr. Julius was often our guest in Ninevah Beach, Sag Harbor, which had several homeowners who were black firefighters ( including Robbie Robinson FDNY ) due to the invitation of NYFD brother John Brannon who was the informal real estate agent for the development. Dad and Mr. Julius often went sailing together, and were founding members of the IABPF. My sincere condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Leslie Outerbridge January 29, 2017
Thank you for your leadership - you helped to make it possible for me and all blacks who have come behind me to become firefighters & paramedics. I truly LOVE you my Brother; and I thank GOD for placing you in my path..
I shed nothing but tears of Joy; Rest Easy ~ ~
Thank you for your leadership - you helped to make it possible for me and all blacks who have come behind me to become firefighters & paramedics. I truly LOVE you my Brother; and I thank GOD for placing you in my path..
I shed nothing but tears of Joy; Rest Easy ~ ~
Dr. Edward Ryan November 24, 2016
I am writing to express my sadness on learning of the death of Vinny Julius. Vince and I worked together in the 1960s at Ladder 132 in Brooklyn. We had so many good times together, and responded to many, many fires together as well. We lost touch after I left the FDNY in 1968 to go on to graduate school, but I have such fond memories of the fun we shared during those years. My condolences to all the other members of the Vulcan Society on his loss. Along with being a great firefighter and an excellent officer, he was also a strong and courageous spokesman for everyone's rights. I am happy to say I worked alongside several black officers and firefighters in Ladder 132 -- Bobby Turner, Don Dozier, Eddie Banks, Al Travers, Sims Jones. It was a special time for me -- I was in my twenties and I have great memories of all of those wonderful guys. Ed Ryan Yale University School of Medicine
I am writing to express my sadness on learning of the death of Vinny Julius. Vince and I worked together in the 1960s at Ladder 132 in Brooklyn. We had so many good times together, and responded to many, many fires together as well. We lost touch after I left the FDNY in 1968 to go on to graduate school, but I have such fond memories of the fun we shared during those years. My condolences to all the other members of the Vulcan Society on his loss. Along with being a great firefighter and an excellent officer, he was also a strong and courageous spokesman for everyone's rights. I am happy to say I worked alongside several black officers and firefighters in Ladder 132 -- Bobby Turner, Don Dozier, Eddie Banks, Al Travers, Sims Jones. It was a special time for me -- I was in my twenties and I have great memories of all of those wonderful guys. Ed Ryan Yale University School of Medicine
James Tempro May 16, 2016
Captain Vincent W. Julius was a man of all seasons. I met Vinnie in February, 1960 when I attended my first Vulcan Society meeting in Harlem and was impressed by his welcoming spirit and encouragement to a fledgling probie. Over the years those qualities were magnified by his fierce fight against racial discrimination. A born leader, Vinnie became the President of the Vulcan Society and led our organization to become a highly respected fraternal organization in the NYFD. It was through Vinnie's vision and organizing skills that we were able to place over 40,000 signatures on Mayor Robert Wagner's desk requesting that Robert O. Lowery be appointed a Deputy Commissioner in the NYFD. When John Lindsay became the new Mayor, we requested that Com. Lowery be retained in that position, but after interviewing Com. Lowery, he was appointed the first Black Fire Commissioner of a major Fire Department in the country. The list goes on: Spear headed the drive to purchase our own building, Vulcan Hall; led with others the forming of the IABPFF, with meetings held at Vulcan Hall. Vinnie was also an ardent sailor, owning a 26' Sailing Sloop. His boat was berthed at City Island Marina. He became the Captain of Moorings, a testament to his leadership abilities. My first experience sailing was with Vinnie and John Ruffins, another accomplished sailor. I was the novice and eager to learn. We went under motor to clear the moorings into Long Island Sound. Then we hoisted sails, cut engine and was under full sail. A squall developed and we had to reduce sails. I was sent below to retrieve the jib sail in the bow through a hatch. When I opened the hatch I was met with dashing wave after wave. I got the jib sail in and closed the hatch and was soaked. We all had a good laugh after, in the club house over a nice meal and a few cold ones. Rest in Peace my Brother, the pleasure of knowing you was all mine.
Captain Vincent W. Julius was a man of all seasons. I met Vinnie in February, 1960 when I attended my first Vulcan Society meeting in Harlem and was impressed by his welcoming spirit and encouragement to a fledgling probie. Over the years those qualities were magnified by his fierce fight against racial discrimination. A born leader, Vinnie became the President of the Vulcan Society and led our organization to become a highly respected fraternal organization in the NYFD. It was through Vinnie's vision and organizing skills that we were able to place over 40,000 signatures on Mayor Robert Wagner's desk requesting that Robert O. Lowery be appointed a Deputy Commissioner in the NYFD. When John Lindsay became the new Mayor, we requested that Com. Lowery be retained in that position, but after interviewing Com. Lowery, he was appointed the first Black Fire Commissioner of a major Fire Department in the country. The list goes on: Spear headed the drive to purchase our own building, Vulcan Hall; led with others the forming of the IABPFF, with meetings held at Vulcan Hall. Vinnie was also an ardent sailor, owning a 26' Sailing Sloop. His boat was berthed at City Island Marina. He became the Captain of Moorings, a testament to his leadership abilities. My first experience sailing was with Vinnie and John Ruffins, another accomplished sailor. I was the novice and eager to learn. We went under motor to clear the moorings into Long Island Sound. Then we hoisted sails, cut engine and was under full sail. A squall developed and we had to reduce sails. I was sent below to retrieve the jib sail in the bow through a hatch. When I opened the hatch I was met with dashing wave after wave. I got the jib sail in and closed the hatch and was soaked. We all had a good laugh after, in the club house over a nice meal and a few cold ones. Rest in Peace my Brother, the pleasure of knowing you was all mine.
Carl Fuller May 16, 2016
Former lieutenant Carl Fuller Engine 207 Captain Julius was very instrumental in me becoming a lieutenant after only six years of firefighting . Captain Julius blessed me by giving me all of his study material , & guidance . if it had not been for men like Captain Julius and Captain John Ruffins I would not have had the opportunity to become one of the bravest. May his soul rest in peace and that we may keep the fire burning for justice .
Former lieutenant Carl Fuller Engine 207 Captain Julius was very instrumental in me becoming a lieutenant after only six years of firefighting . Captain Julius blessed me by giving me all of his study material , & guidance . if it had not been for men like Captain Julius and Captain John Ruffins I would not have had the opportunity to become one of the bravest. May his soul rest in peace and that we may keep the fire burning for justice .
Brenda Berkman May 13, 2016
Vinnie was a great support to me and the first women FDNY firefighters as we faced a great deal of hostility and harassment joining the department. He encouraged, gave advice, provided an example of strength. His strong sense of social justice underpinned everything he did. I am sorry to lose such a true friend. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. RIP Captain Julius.
Vinnie was a great support to me and the first women FDNY firefighters as we faced a great deal of hostility and harassment joining the department. He encouraged, gave advice, provided an example of strength. His strong sense of social justice underpinned everything he did. I am sorry to lose such a true friend. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. RIP Captain Julius.
Carl Havens May 13, 2016
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Vincent W. Julius. I remember coming to Vulcan Hall and listening to the experiences of the older members. We are a family in the Vulcan Society so everyone was treated as family. Sometimes we argued and sometimes we laughed but we were open to criticism. This made us better in the Department. When I ran for Vulcan President I had to come before the Council of Elders (Former Presidents) They were Vincent Julius, Robert Turner Sr., David Floyd, and Elbert Washington. They were my mentors for advice and procedures running the Vulcan Society. I remain truly grateful and thankful for their advice. Thank you Vinnie for your words of wisdom. I am forever humbled to walk in the footsteps of giants.
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Vincent W. Julius. I remember coming to Vulcan Hall and listening to the experiences of the older members. We are a family in the Vulcan Society so everyone was treated as family. Sometimes we argued and sometimes we laughed but we were open to criticism. This made us better in the Department. When I ran for Vulcan President I had to come before the Council of Elders (Former Presidents) They were Vincent Julius, Robert Turner Sr., David Floyd, and Elbert Washington. They were my mentors for advice and procedures running the Vulcan Society. I remain truly grateful and thankful for their advice. Thank you Vinnie for your words of wisdom. I am forever humbled to walk in the footsteps of giants.
Manuel Croquez May 13, 2016
Rest in Peace BROTHER.. May GOD grant you space on the Table of Heroes.... Was a Joy to Work with you ( via our Societies ) and also in Public Information Bur. FDNY.. Not only a Brother, but He Excelled as a Leader in the Fight for respect between all Brothers & Sisters in the FDNY.. BAR NONE** ...that he was one of my mentors in FDNY- Bur. of Public Information & Education - Youth programs and Recruitment programs , Fire fighting & Investigation ( 11th Div. - Bur. Fire Investigation =Bklyn & Manhattan ) during the War Years of FDNYC....His advise and Guidance in My life and, that of Many others..
Rest in Peace BROTHER.. May GOD grant you space on the Table of Heroes.... Was a Joy to Work with you ( via our Societies ) and also in Public Information Bur. FDNY.. Not only a Brother, but He Excelled as a Leader in the Fight for respect between all Brothers & Sisters in the FDNY.. BAR NONE** ...that he was one of my mentors in FDNY- Bur. of Public Information & Education - Youth programs and Recruitment programs , Fire fighting & Investigation ( 11th Div. - Bur. Fire Investigation =Bklyn & Manhattan ) during the War Years of FDNYC....His advise and Guidance in My life and, that of Many others..
Darrell M.Bennett Jr. May 13, 2016
Rest In Peace Capt.
Rest In Peace Capt.
Juan Moreno lll May 12, 2016
Although I was never a paid Firefighter as my Father before me I am no stranger to the struggle and Men like Captain Julius have given me the inspiration to continue to move forward in the Volunteer Ranks. I was very sad to hear about his passing but he will continue to carry the flame of justice for all Firefighters. Captain Vincent Julius Rest in Eternal Peace Juan Moreno III Deputy Assistant Chief Cronomer Valley Fire Department Newburgh New York
Although I was never a paid Firefighter as my Father before me I am no stranger to the struggle and Men like Captain Julius have given me the inspiration to continue to move forward in the Volunteer Ranks. I was very sad to hear about his passing but he will continue to carry the flame of justice for all Firefighters. Captain Vincent Julius Rest in Eternal Peace Juan Moreno III Deputy Assistant Chief Cronomer Valley Fire Department Newburgh New York
John West May 12, 2016
I met Vincent Julius in 1978 while attending my first INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTER in Hartford,Conn. and you new then that he was something great. Later when i was elected president by may local chapter of IABPFF , did we all benefit from his motivational spirit in our fight for equality and equity in the fire service Vincent Julius,David Floyd,Charles Hendricks and Charles H. Green all GIANTS in the FIRE SERVICE . REST VINCENT JULIUS FOR A JOB WELL DONE . John D. West Jr. PAST PRES.VULCAN PIONEERS OF N.J.,INC.
I met Vincent Julius in 1978 while attending my first INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTER in Hartford,Conn. and you new then that he was something great. Later when i was elected president by may local chapter of IABPFF , did we all benefit from his motivational spirit in our fight for equality and equity in the fire service Vincent Julius,David Floyd,Charles Hendricks and Charles H. Green all GIANTS in the FIRE SERVICE . REST VINCENT JULIUS FOR A JOB WELL DONE . John D. West Jr. PAST PRES.VULCAN PIONEERS OF N.J.,INC.
Robert Davis May 12, 2016
This gentleman was indeed one of the GIANTS whose shoulders we all stood on. I only met him twice but it was obvious he was a Big Man amongst his peers.. Vinnie, Bob Turner and Ike Johnson were my heroes. All the best to the family and thanks for sharing this Icon with us. Battalion Chief Robert L Davis Seattle Fire Department
This gentleman was indeed one of the GIANTS whose shoulders we all stood on. I only met him twice but it was obvious he was a Big Man amongst his peers.. Vinnie, Bob Turner and Ike Johnson were my heroes. All the best to the family and thanks for sharing this Icon with us. Battalion Chief Robert L Davis Seattle Fire Department
Fred La Famina May 12, 2016
I met Captain Julius at my sister State Police graduation. I believe his grandson graduated that day. My father who knew Vin from the job introduced us. As a young fireman at the time I was so impressed by his kindness and demeanor. But when he told me he was the Captain of L112 my eyes lit up. That truck did more work during the war years then any other company. At that moment I had wished I was a fireman in L-112 when he was the Captain. Not many men make impressions like that on young firefighters. God let you rest in peace Cap
I met Captain Julius at my sister State Police graduation. I believe his grandson graduated that day. My father who knew Vin from the job introduced us. As a young fireman at the time I was so impressed by his kindness and demeanor. But when he told me he was the Captain of L112 my eyes lit up. That truck did more work during the war years then any other company. At that moment I had wished I was a fireman in L-112 when he was the Captain. Not many men make impressions like that on young firefighters. God let you rest in peace Cap
Charles G. Williams May 11, 2016
It was a pleasure working with and knowing you. Rest in peace my Brother
It was a pleasure working with and knowing you. Rest in peace my Brother
Cecelia Owens-Cox May 11, 2016
"The Lord is my light and my Salvation whom shall I fear? He is my strength and my redeemer of whom shall I be afraid?". These are the words you spoke to me a very long time ago when I was petrified of what was to come once I entered the firehouse. You reminded me and shared with me the long history of African American firefighters within the FDNY. I felt a little more confident knowing that whatever happened you and the VULCAN SOCIETY would have my back! Thank you Captain Julius for your patience, dedication and understanding during those unbearable years. You will be missed! My sincere condolences to your family and past co-workers. May God Bless them all. You've fought the good fight...We'll take it from here. RIP Firefighter Cecelia Owens-Cox (Ret. L-9) Firefighter Andre W. Cox (Ret. L-43)
"The Lord is my light and my Salvation whom shall I fear? He is my strength and my redeemer of whom shall I be afraid?". These are the words you spoke to me a very long time ago when I was petrified of what was to come once I entered the firehouse. You reminded me and shared with me the long history of African American firefighters within the FDNY. I felt a little more confident knowing that whatever happened you and the VULCAN SOCIETY would have my back! Thank you Captain Julius for your patience, dedication and understanding during those unbearable years. You will be missed! My sincere condolences to your family and past co-workers. May God Bless them all. You've fought the good fight...We'll take it from here. RIP Firefighter Cecelia Owens-Cox (Ret. L-9) Firefighter Andre W. Cox (Ret. L-43)
Kirk Coy May 11, 2016
One of the greatest human beings I've ever known.......forever in my heart.
One of the greatest human beings I've ever known.......forever in my heart.
Elbert Washington May 11, 2016
Vincent W. Julius was the "Vulcan Society Incorporated FDNY" in the flesh. His memory of the history of our organizations founding and that of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters was pristine, so his passing is a loss that is irreplaceable. While the recent street dedication in honor of former Fire Commissioner and President Emeritus of the Vulcan Society Robert O. Lowery was a tremendous accomplishment by his family, it was Brother Julius who lead the effort to get thousands of names on a petition to get Robert O. Lowery appointed as a Deputy Fire Commissioner, leading to his appointment as the Nations first Black Fire Commissioner of a major City. Additionally, and more importantly, he was our "Grio", our "Sage", always there to keep the leadership of Vulcan Society on track, and true to it's proud history. You see, "Vinnie " knew that all black firefighters were not "Vulcans", therefore there was no need to include that discription in our title. His dedication to excellence, service, knowledge, pride, meticulous preparation, and love of his people is his legacy. Rest in Peace Vincent, your contributions to "Keep the Fire Burning for Justice", reminds us all that "All that I Am, I Owe, I Live Eternally in the Red. Fraternally, Elbert Washington Past President Vulcan Society Incorporated FDNY
Vincent W. Julius was the "Vulcan Society Incorporated FDNY" in the flesh. His memory of the history of our organizations founding and that of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters was pristine, so his passing is a loss that is irreplaceable. While the recent street dedication in honor of former Fire Commissioner and President Emeritus of the Vulcan Society Robert O. Lowery was a tremendous accomplishment by his family, it was Brother Julius who lead the effort to get thousands of names on a petition to get Robert O. Lowery appointed as a Deputy Fire Commissioner, leading to his appointment as the Nations first Black Fire Commissioner of a major City. Additionally, and more importantly, he was our "Grio", our "Sage", always there to keep the leadership of Vulcan Society on track, and true to it's proud history. You see, "Vinnie " knew that all black firefighters were not "Vulcans", therefore there was no need to include that discription in our title. His dedication to excellence, service, knowledge, pride, meticulous preparation, and love of his people is his legacy. Rest in Peace Vincent, your contributions to "Keep the Fire Burning for Justice", reminds us all that "All that I Am, I Owe, I Live Eternally in the Red. Fraternally, Elbert Washington Past President Vulcan Society Incorporated FDNY
Allen Williams May 10, 2016
You fought the good fight. Now you may rest in peace Vinny
You fought the good fight. Now you may rest in peace Vinny