In The Operating Room - 10/30/1998 Baltimore City Fire Department Gold Pin Award Recipients: Lt. Mitchell M. Fisher EVD Karl J. Zimmerman F.F. Steven H. Peavy F.F. Frank A Deems On October 30, 1998 Baltimore City Fire Department Rescue Company 1 was dispactched to Johns Hopkins Hospital. When they arrived they were advised that there was a 4 year old child with his arm trapped in a meat grinder up to the shoulder. Doctors informed the crew of Rescue Company 1 that unless the meat grinder could be removed in short order the child's arm would have to be amputated at the shoulder. The child was in the OR and the next course of action would be determined by the success or failure of Rescue Company 1 in removing the electric meat grinder from his arm. The crew of Baltimore City Fire Department Rescue Company 1 assisted by Engine Company 24 and Air Cascade 2 worked in the Operating Room along side doctors and nurses. Using Holmatro rescue tools and air operated tools they were able to remove the meat grinder. Once freed, the child's arm was able to be saved. Unfortunately due to the extensive damage caused by the meat grinder the child's hand had to be amputated. The members of Rescue Company 1, Engine Company 24 and Air Cascade 2 along with the staff at John's Hopkins Hospital did an outstanding job under very difficult circumstances.