[DeathWind]

Over the last couple days I have followed a story about a propane explosion at a store that I have visited quite often from childhood and when I would return home on leave from the military (20+ years of service). I think this store has occupied that same spot for well over 30+ years.

Deadly Propane Explosion

What struck me was the last statement of this story when, a volunteer fire-fighter, was asked how you ask someone to risk their life without paying them. Here is that statement and something to think about:
_____________________________
He [Lewis] also noted that of the 447 fire departments in West Virginia, only 16 are paid or part-paid. The rest are volunteer. That’s 87 percent of the state’s firefighters.

“How do you ask someone to risk his life without pay?” someone from the media asked.

“You don’t ask them. They do it because it’s in their heart,” said Lewis, a former Beaver volunteer firefighter. “They do it for the community. This is something that is bred down deep in the soul.”
_______________________________

To those that volunteer for your community, from a military member, thank you.

[voodoochild]

Yes, it is something that comes from within. Many of my relatives and friends are volunteer fireman or rescue squad members. It is something that (obviously) isn't taught. It's a special kind of person with an unselfish willingness to help others. Thanks to them all.

[chucktx]

i feel the same....it is something they are born with....and i am glad that those folks exist...they are a special breed of people...and my old hat is off to them!!!

[Red Rider]

Spent 4 years in the VFD and nearly 30 in the military. Thanks for noticing!

I think what it comes down to is a sense of responsibility for our fellow man. Trying to make the world a better place. When I'm dead ya'll can figure out if it worked.

[voodoochild]

Originally Posted by Red Rider

Spent 4 years in the VFD and nearly 30 in the military. Thanks for noticing!

I think what it comes down to is a sense of responsibility for our fellow man. Trying to make the world a better place. When I'm dead ya'll can figure out if it worked.

Hopefully we won't have to wait until guys like you are dead to realize it worked!

[2fastnaz]

Breaking glass and kicking ass gets in the blood. I did some fire fighting in the Navy and drove a dozer on a couple of fires when I was a younger man. It's quite the rush and very addicting for adrenalin junkies.

[Red Rider]

Breaking glass and kicking ass gets in the blood. I did some fire fighting in the Navy and drove a dozer on a couple of fires when I was a younger man. It's quite the rush and very addicting for adrenalin junkies

It surely does. Wish my body weren't so beat up so I could still do it. Just came off one surgery in Dec (hence my lack of posts) and going for another round in about three weeks. So I'll make way for the young bucks....and the old, not so beat up stags!

[FlynDutchman]

Originally Posted by 2fastnaz

Breaking glass and kicking ass gets in the blood. I did some fire fighting in the Navy and drove a dozer on a couple of fires when I was a younger man. It's quite the rush and very addicting for adrenalin junkies.

Sure does...My old man was a paid on call fireman & when I got out of the Corps he nudged me a little to join. His brother & nephew were both firefighters, so I guess it was a natural progression... I was a paid on call firefighter, a volunteer firefighter & now Im a career firefighter (paid) & it still amazes me that they pay me to do this !!

[FlynDutchman]

Originally Posted by 2fastnaz

Breaking glass and kicking ass

Someone also once said: I get paid to do everything my mother never would let me do as a kid: Get dirty, swear, & break stuff.

[voodoochild]

Thanks to all you boys for your dedication to your jobs!!

[FlynDutchman]

Originally Posted by voodoochild

Thanks to all you boys for your dedication to your jobs!!

Thanks for your support...

I dont have to worry about it here, but alot of Volly departments rely heavy on donations for equipment. Without the support of the public, these places might not have the equipment or training to do their job.