Dr. Frank Field, a renowned meteorologist and science journalist, passed away at the age of 100 in Florida. Starting his career at WNBC-TV in New York in 1958, Dr. Field became the first meteorologist in the city’s television news. Despite not having a college degree in meteorology, his experience as a weather forecaster in the military earned him recognition from the American Meteorological Society, which awarded him their prestigious “Seal of Approval” for his exceptional delivery of weather information to the public.
A Multifaceted Career
Beyond his expertise in meteorology, Dr. Field hosted various programs on science and health. Notably, he played a crucial role in raising awareness about the Heimlich maneuver, a life-saving procedure for choking victims. Dr. Field invited Dr. Henry J. Heimlich, the creator of the maneuver, to the studio for a demonstration, which significantly contributed to its public recognition.
Furthermore, Dr. Field received accolades for his reporting on developments in the applied sciences, earning him a citation at the New York Emmy Awards in 1975. He also held a fellowship at the esteemed Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where he conducted research on the relationship between weather and health.
A Lasting Legacy
After leaving NBC in 1984, Dr. Field joined CBS, where he continued his work for the next eleven years. Later, he contributed to the meteorology teams at New York’s WNYW and WWOR. Dr. Field’s impact extended beyond his own career, as he inspired his children, Storm Field and Allison Field, to pursue successful careers as weather forecasters in New York television.
Dr. Field is survived by his daughter Pamela Field, seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Sadly, his wife, Joan Kaplan Field, also passed away earlier this year, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to meteorology, science journalism, and public education.
A Pioneer Remembered
Dr. Frank Field will be remembered as a trailblazer in the field of meteorology and science journalism. His contributions to weather forecasting, health reporting, and public education have left an indelible mark. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we honor his dedication and passion for advancing our understanding of the natural world and its impact on human life.