This short article is being written in the midst of all of the emotions that the night of September 10 can bring. It in no way discounts the relationships I have within the EMS or law enforcement community.
The fire department is a brotherhood and sisterhood of courage, selflessness, and dedication. They are the ones who run into burning buildings when everyone else is running out. They are the ones who risk their lives to save others. They are the ones who stand on the front lines of disaster, protecting our communities.
The volunteer fire department is a mystery. It makes no sense to many, including my own friends who ask how I can do it, why I would do it, and if there is any return. This summer it has been a constant interruption with wildfire after wildfire, risk after risk, threat after threat.
I have the utmost respect for my brothers and sisters in the fire department. They are true heroes. For years they have put their lives on the line every day to keep their community safe. They are brave, selfless, and compassionate. They are always willing to help others, even when it means putting themselves in danger. It is not just the fires or the accidents. There are long unpaid hours of repairs on trucks, the fire hall, and even on gear.
I have seen so often this summer the courage of firefighters, but more so, I have witnessed selflessness. They are always willing to give up their time and energy to help others. They volunteer for community events, they mentor young people, and they donate to charity. They are always looking for ways to make a difference in the lives of others.
And I have seen the compassion of firefighters. They are kind and compassionate to everyone they meet. They treat the victims of fires with respect and dignity. They offer comfort and support to those who have lost their homes. They are a source of hope in times of crisis.
I am proud to be a part of the fire department family. I am proud to call these brave men and women my brothers and sisters. They are an inspiration to me and to all of us. They are a shining example of what it means to be a hero.
As September 10th comes to a close, I know that September 11th will bring memories and sadness to our home and to homes and departments all across the country. As we gather tomorrow, for an event that seems so long ago, let us remember that each and every day, despite the losses we witnessed on September 11, there are men and women who still get up every morning and consider the call the most important thing in their life.
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