What State do you live in?

OH

Type of Organization

Volunteer Fire Department

Job Function

Assistant Chief/Deputy Chief

Years in Fire/EMS:

24 years.

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Retired

Years With Department/Agency

10

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

New Vision Fire & Rescue, 3 years Assistant Fire Chief
Edison Fire Dept. FF, 4 years service
Whirlpool Plant Emergency Org. FF, Haz Mat Tech, 1st Responder 17 years
Marengo Fire Dept. Senior FF, 12 years service

My Training:

Firefighter I, Basic EMT, Haz Mat I, II, III w/specialties in Radiological Monitoring, Confined Space Rescue, Anhydrous Ammonia, Propane and Emergency Response to Terrorist incidents, State Cert. Fire Investigator, Extrication Tech w/specializing in Farm and Vehicle Extrications, numerous Command classes, Rural Tactics, i've been busy

About Me:

I started my life being a cop. I didn't like the scene so I swithced to firefighting. over the years of my public service I have found firefighting is in the heart, if you don't then it's just another job. I've learned to expect the unexpected, become educated, take care of #1, you cannot help if you don't make it there. It is about the community and not being a hero, the reward is felt inside and not expected from others.

Day Job:

RETIRED!!

Relationship Status:

In a Relationship

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

At 4 years old, my local fire dept responed to my home to rescue my dad who tried to commit suicide. He had baracaded himself in the garage. All the lights and sirens, people rushing to help my family that day, led me to become more aware of my community and the services that were provided on a volunteer basis. One of the rookies that day is now the Fire Chief of that department and had a lot of influence in me becoming a firefighter.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

I get to give back to the community, education seems to be endless and enjoy being a part of something wonderful.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

The ability to succesfully expedite an incident with the resources available due to the competition of monies going to Law Enforcement agencies, only to find they will call us and expect that we will have the proper resources to help them when stuff hits the fan.