Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid

Job Function

Firefighter / Paramedic (or Other ALS), Hazardous Materials Team Member, Other

Years in Fire/EMS:

14

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Choctaw Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

6

My Training:

firefighter, paramedic, dive rescue, rope rescue, haz mat, and alot of other stuff

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

long story, i was interested as a teenager. wanted to go to nursing then got emt while in combat medic training at Ft. Sam. When I got home I decided to work for one semester as an emt before going to school and the rest is history. I have tried to get out of emergency services but I believe that the Lord has put me here for a reason. Every time I get away from one thing he pulls me back into something else. I am ok with that though, it is occassionally rewarding. I have been blessed. I have a great family and a roof over my head, not to mention I have not ever been starved. I have gained a passion for my work ( my wife says its obsessive) and still 14 years later still find myself trying to learn as much as i can. I am now the TC coordinator for my fire department and relief captain. I also just accepted an EMS Director position which I work on my other days. Well thats enough for now.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Overworked due to lack of personell and stress.