What State do you live in?

TN

Type of Organization

Part/Paid Fire Department

Job Function

Chaplain

Years in Fire/EMS:

18

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Baltimore County

Years With Department/Agency

13

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

I went to work for Medic Ambulance in 1973 after completing Paramedic School. I went to Baltimore County in 1976. At this time I am a volunteer chaplain and secretary with Hickory Withe Fire Dept. and volunteer chaplain with Memphis FD.

My Training:

Trained as a Paramedic in Memphis, TN a as a Firefighter and Rescue Specialist in Baltimore County. Was also trained in Heavy Rescue and underwater search and recovery. I attended International Theological Seminary and was ordained in the United Wesleyan Church. I am also trained in Trauma, Crisis& Grief counseling through the American Association of Christian Counselors.

About Me:

I was born into an Orthodox Jewish home and studied at a Yesheiva in New York. I never really practiced the faith however. I gave up my family except my grandfather and grandmother when I choose to enter Emergency Services. I have two daughters- Jennifer and Stephanie and a step-daughter Alicia and a step-son Justin. I have 10 grandchildren. I was seriously injured on the job and was unable to return to work and left Baltimore and returned to Memphis. I met my wife Gloria and we married and have been together 27 years. Gloria patiently lead me Christ. I am a United Wesleyan Pastor, and with Gloria we have a marriage ministry where I provide premarital and marriage counseling and also will preform the couples wedding if they desire. I also volunteer as a Chaplain with Memphis and Hickory Withe Fire Dept.

Day Job:

Pastor

Relationship Status:

Married

Facebook or Other Online Profile:

http://www.facebook.com/howard.alperin

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

I credit my Grandfather for me joining Emergency Services. From the time I was four he would take me to the fire station by our house. I would get to climb on the equipment, play with the bell and siren. I told my grandfather when I was 6 I was going to be a fireman. Eleven years later I enter EMT school and then Paramedic school. I said all of that to simply say that I feel I was called by God enter ES and that I knew even at a young age that it was a needed service.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

Because I serve God by serving others and the station and field fellowship withl your peers. It is like no other profession!

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Low salary,extended hours. Also personnel leaving the profession due to the salary and hours required--which is putting extra stress on those who remain in the profession.