Women’s History: From Volunteer Day to 9/11 Hero

In April 2001, Jessica DuLong became the first female engineer aboard retired fireboat John J. Harvey. She had never considered working aboard a boat, but fell in love with the engine room after a volunteer day, describing the experience as “finding a taste of home she hadn’t realized was missing.” Just five months later, Jessica and the John J. Harvey would play a pivotal role in the rescue efforts at the World Trade Center.

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In an article published in September 2021 honoring the 20th anniversary of the attacks, DuLong referred to the mariners’ efforts as a way to “remind us of our capacities for hope and humanity.”

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Today, DuLong continues to work as a journalist, author, historian, book collaborator and writing coach, and chief engineer, emerita, of retired NYC fireboat John J. Harvey.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we honor her bravery and heroism on 9/11.