Jim Grismer ('89): A 9/11 Shift Swap Inspired A Life of Service & The Memorial That Calls Him Back

🎙️ In this powerful and emotional episode, host Dee Perkins (1985) talks with Jim Grismer (Class of 1989), a retired New York City firefighter whose life journey from SUNY Oswego to Ground Zero—and beyond—is a testament to service, legacy, and lasting friendships. Jim opens up about his family's deep firefighting roots, his personal experience with 9/11—including losing close friends and colleagues—and how those events shaped his life's mission. He also shares the story behind the Free and Easy Forever Memorial on the Oswego campus, a tribute to alumni lost in the 9/11 attacks and the Pan Am Flight 103 tragedy over Lockerbie. 🏫 Jim reflects on his transformative time at Oswego, the lifelong bonds he formed, and the healing power of reunion. His work with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the 9/11 Mobile Exhibit ensures the stories of the fallen are never forgotten. 💬 Topics include: The legacy of firefighting in Jim’s family 👨‍🚒 A life-changing shift swap on 9/11 Honoring fallen Oswego alumni: Lynne Hartunian ’89 and Colleen Brunner ’90, two victims of 1989’s Pan Am Flight 103, and Michael Hannan ‘89 and Richard Caproni ‘89, both victims of the Sept. 11 attacks The connections that made the Free and Easy Forever Memorial happen The unforgettable 2015 Oswego reunion and dedication ceremony Jim’s son, Thomas Michael, continuing the legacy as a Marine training to be a crash rescue firefighter The enduring bond of Oswego classmates ❤️ 📍 Whether you're an Oswego alum, a first responder, or someone who values the power of community, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🔗 SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring stories from SUNY Oswego alumni. #SUNYOswego #OswegoAlumniPodcast #911NeverForget #FDNY #TunnelToTowers #FreeAndEasyMemorial #OswegoAlumni #Lockerbie #FirstResponders #OswegoReunion