Having run with both of them a number of times (former NYC Medic) I can tell you that the ESU Motto is:Anything, Anywhere, Anytime, above or below the water. (That's what their shirts say)

You are right though....when you have a problem you call 911. when the police have a problem they call ESU! And yes there is a great rivalry going on.....I will say this though.....you can get 2 back boarded patients INSIDE of Rescue 5. I've done it. You should have seen the ER nurses faces when we pulled up in that thing!!!! (Long Story behind that call......)