On May 19, 2016, the Los Angeles Fire & Police Pension board dedicated the “Sam Diannitto Boardroom.” This is a great tribute to Sam Diannitto who has tirelessly worked as our LAFD pension commissioner for more than forty years, and he’s currently the pension commissioner for us retired guys.
I met Sam Diannitto in the late 70’s when I was a fireman at FS 64. I wasn’t too far removed from being off probation and anyone wearin’ a gold badge was not only respected, but somewhat feared. I also remember when the aide (adjutants now) and the chief drove up to the station apron, soundin’ the horn to alert us to his arrival, even our TFC at the time shook in his boots.
Sam’s outward appearance gave all of us the impression that he was all business and was also someone who expected all of us to perform to the best of our abilities and in a professional manner. It was more than just an “appearance.” But Sam was also a gentleman regarding how he treated people. There was no bravado with Sam. He never put himself above anyone and he was always lookin’ out for our best interests.
So it wasn’t good news for us to hear that Chief Diannitto had been transferred to Battalion One. It wasn’t long afterwards that I was notified that I had been transferred to FS 9. I wondered how that was possible since I had never put in a transfer request, but B/C’s had serious powers back then. But I got a call from Sam explainin’ the transfer. He thought it was time for me to expand my horizons. I disagreed. Sam told me to pull my head out of the sand and come to 9’s. I did and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.
Sam then asked me to be his adjutant. It was a great eight year run. I learned much from Sam and still feel honored that I had his confidence.
Sam Diannitto is a rare individual. He doesn’t expect anything but he gives so much and has served the members of the LAFD well, through his determined efforts as our pension representative. Most of us will never know what Sam Diannitto has done for us and our families. Our pension system is among the best in the country. Its health and well-being are a direct result of Sam Diannitto’s persistent efforts to continually maintain and improve our benefits.
Also, many of you may not be aware that our pension department recently purchased its own buildin’. Naturally, Sam Diannitto was very instrumental in ensuring the pension department had its own home. This is a four-story buildin’ at 701 E. 3rd St., in beautiful downtown Los Angeles. Another benefit to havin’ this buildin’ is the fact that the three remainin’ floors will be rented out. This is another sound investment for our pension system.
While I was workin’ I never gave much thought to my pension or the benefits. It wasn’t until after I had retired that the light came on and I realized how fortunate I was. I also never realized the important role that Sam Diannitto was playin’, not just for me but for all of us. Our future had been in good hands. And I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say, “Thank you Sam, for all of your time and effort in what you have done for all of us durin’ the last 40+ years. And because of your efforts, there will continue to be generations of firefighters that unknowingly reap the benefits of your dedicated service.”
Thanks for everythin’ Sam, it’s an honor to have you as mentor and a friend.