To all my fellow members of one of the nicest groups of people in the universe, volunteer or paid, firefighter or fire police officer, I wish the happiest and safest New Year!Over the past several years, I have had the great fortune of being a part of the fire service. I have experienced so many things that it would take several books to chronicle them all. But the one thing that ranks top of all is the camaraderie, being a part of a team that provides service back to our community.
While everyone should remember to keep their homes and businesses safe and to drive carefully, all should also remember those of us who are there to assist when the unthinkable emergency happens, 24-by-7, every day and night of the year. Next time you see that car with a blue light flashing on it, know that they are responding to assist someone in need. Next time you get a fundraising letter from the local fire company, contribute to help them help you. Better yet, volunteer at your local company. They will provide the training and the gear if only you will provide the time and energy.
Here's to getting in, getting out, and getting home safe on every call in 2008!
PS: The graphic is my creation, an adaptation of a firefighter drawing found via Google Images. It is used on a number of web sites and other places and I could find no original source. If you like it, feel free to use it with the proper attribution. If you are using it on the web, please save and place it on your own server.
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