A Legacy of Service Spanning Generations

A remarkable story of service connects two of Saint John’s own firefighters to one of World War II’s most elite commando units. First Class Firefighters Tyler Brown and Brandon Luke, both stationed in Uptown Saint John, continue a family legacy of courage and dedication started by their grandfathers, who served together in the legendary First Special Service Force, famously known as the “Devil’s Brigade.”

The Saint John Firefighters IAFF Local 771 recently shared this unique story in a Remembrance Day tribute on their Facebook page, highlighting the incredible link between past and present service.

The Legendary “Devil’s Brigade”

During WWII, the First Special Service Force was formed by combining elite Canadian and American troops. They underwent grueling training in Helena, Montana, preparing for commando missions behind enemy lines. Their skills in parachuting, demolition, mountain climbing, and hand-to-hand combat made them a formidable unit, considered a model for modern special forces.

The unit earned the nickname “The Black Devils” from their enemies for their stealthy and effective night raids. One of their most famous achievements was the capture of Monte la Difensa in Italy. The force scaled a 1,000-foot sheer cliff at night to overtake a heavily fortified German position that had previously repelled Allied attacks, paving the way for the advance on Rome.

The two Maritime men who volunteered for this dangerous duty were Private Bliss B. Beach of New Brunswick and Private Frank B. Hartlen of Nova Scotia. They served together during the Italian Campaign, earning numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star and the Congressional Gold Medal.

Continuing the Tradition in Saint John

Today, that same spirit of service lives on in Saint John. In a unique twist of fate, the grandsons of both Private Beach and Private Hartlen now serve the city as firefighters. First Class Firefighter Tyler Brown (grandson of Bliss B. Beach) and First Class Firefighter Brandon Luke (grandson of Frank B. Hartlen) work to protect the community, continuing their grandfathers’ commitment to helping others.

Their story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations and how their integrity and desire to serve continue to inspire and shape our community today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the “Devil’s Brigade”?

The “Devil’s Brigade” was the nickname for the First Special Service Force, an elite joint Canadian-American commando unit formed during World War II. They were known for their specialized skills and dangerous missions behind enemy lines.

What was their most famous mission?

Their most renowned mission was the capture of Monte la Difensa in Italy, where they scaled a sheer cliff face at night to seize a key German stronghold.

How are these WWII veterans connected to Saint John?

Two veterans of the force, Private Bliss B. Beach of New Brunswick and Private Frank B. Hartlen of Nova Scotia, are the grandfathers of two current Saint John firefighters, Tyler Brown and Brandon Luke.

Who are the Saint John firefighters carrying on this legacy?

First Class Firefighter Tyler Brown and First Class Firefighter Brandon Luke are the two Saint John firefighters whose grandfathers served together in the Devil’s Brigade.