The melee included between 50 and 100 uniformed firefighters who trashed the restaurant, harassed patrons, exposed themselves and fought for five hours.

Currently, about 25 percent of uniformed firefighters are eligible to retire.

The Mayor's remarks came as he announced a tentative agreement with the union representing the city's uniformed firefighters.

"There was a problem between the fire marshals and the uniformed firefighters," Mr. Safir said.

Over 546 uniformed firefighters are stationed in 46 fire stations throughout the county.

Among uniformed firefighters of all ranks, 92 percent are white men.

Officials for the two unions that represent uniformed firefighters said this latest reduction set off feelings of hurt and betrayal among many firefighters.

As of 2010, the Fort Wayne Fire Department includes 375 uniformed firefighters and 18 fire stations.

Of the roughly 11,000 uniformed firefighters, 22 are women.

He passes uniformed firefighters standing at attention for a memorial service on Amsterdam Avenue.