I don't think any of the firefighters keep this job just for the pay. They take pride in being firefighters. |
I grew up on a farm so I thought driving a fire truck would be like handling a grain truck. But the first time I was behind the wheel of a fire truck, I was awestruck by the responsibility. Sure you can run a stoplight, but you have to make sure the intersection is clear before you do. That's when I realized each level you reach in the fire department brings on new responsibility. And there are more people under your wing. |
I'll be working with everybody so I'll get to know fairly well what different issues are coming up in the stations. I'll just be going from the field to the office more. I have to thank Tim (Bragg, who retired last week as assistant fire chief with 28 years at MFD). He prepared me well for the office end of this. |
With 9/11, it brought more to the public's attention there could be a call that firefighters might not come back from. |