Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Volunteer

Job Function

Captain

Years in Fire/EMS:

39 fire; 33 +EMS retired Aug 2010 returned to new ems same month

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Couchton Vol Fire Rescue

Years With Department/Agency

39

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

Aiken County EMS 32.5 years

My Training:

Firefighter1, Paramedic, HazMat specialist, Arson detection, SC Wildland firefighter. ACLS ITLS PALS Extrication Instructor, Former Deputy Coroner 16 years, Former Reserve Police Officer realy too much to list.

About Me:

I am Captain in my department, formally, Chief. I have a wife and 2 children 21 and 23 1 grand child. I work full time as Williston Rescue Squad. I have been a member with Couchton VFR since 1972. Started firefighting when we did not have a station but had a 1946 pumper and a 1954 surplus 6x6 tanker. I am the oldest continuous member of our dept . Newly wed July 18,2009, after SCFF Convention at Myrtle Beach, SC.

Day Job:

Williston Rescue Squad Paramedic

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

Knowledge and friendship

Why I Love Fire/EMS

Being a firefighter gave my life a purpose at a time when I did not know what to do as a profession. It led to me getting into EMS and opened other doors. It makes me feel good that others respect and need my expertise. Not in a way that makes you better than anyone, but in way you know you can help and give back to those around you.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Getting volunteers, the numbers have dropped over the years of those who wish to serve their fellow man. Funding has allways been an issue. The time one has to commit to training and more and more requiremnts has put the Volunteer FD in a tight area.