First Responders put their lives on the line everyday to protect us. Whether it be the police, the fire department, military personnel or doctors and EMTs, they put us first. It takes a special kind of person to do these jobs and possibly make the ultimate sacrifice!

                                              First Responders Know it Early

So what I mean by this is that, those people who eventually become First Responders, know they want to do that from early on in life. These are those kids who are always helping animals and people, in special circumstances or under certain conditions. They always went out of their way to do what was right and good, just because, not for the glory or recognition. Today, they are doing the same thing. The dangers however, sometimes outweigh the positives. Some of these people, will make the last sacrifice. Let their service to the communities they work and live in, never be taken in vain. For they do things many of us would never bring ourselves to do. Most of all, they put their lives on the line everyday, and for some, they never make it back home after their day is done.

                                              Remembering Those Lost

Whether it be a small or large-scale disaster, First Responders will never hesitate a step to enter what could be the most horrific of situations. Whether dodging bullets, fires, floods or bombs, they will always be there. Unfortunately, many have died in the line of duty, just doing what they swore to uphold, the commnunity’s safety and well-being. It angers me to no end, how disrespectful people can be towards these men and women. These same people who target these individuals, will always end up looking for their help, when they need it! And for those animals who kill First Responders, yes I do believe in the most extreme form of punishment. For they consistently put themselves in danger when they go out to do their job.

The state of Maryland, where I live, has recently had to go through several losses of First Responders. The latest just taking place yesterday. A fireman from one of our counties, lost his life fighting a 7 alarm house fire in the early morning hours. This young hero left a wife, five children and many friends and comrades. How do you thank someone of that caliber of character? You can honor them, contribute to funds set up for the family, or just do one thing, RESPECT THEM!  If people would just do that one thing, everyday in fact to those who are still here, when these horrible events happen, the First
Responder community will know how we really feel about them and what they do.

                                            Life Put into Perspective

I became very emotional yesterday while watching the news of this latest tragedy. It put into perspective to me, all the times I complained about my job, or listened to others complain about their own. This would include family, friends and co-workers. How in the hell can I complain? I sit behind a desk and for the most part, don’t worry about whether someone is going to harm or kill me on a daily basis. Sure, you are probably thinking, well we do have to worry now about workplace violence, car crashes, and unstable people walking around waiting to just do harm to us.

The point I’m trying to make is very simple. Yes, things happen in life that we have no control over sometimes, but when First Responders take that oath, it’s a possibility everyday they leave their homes.

So let’s just remember one important fact. It really does take a special kind of human to do what these people do. Most of them are good, selfless people. Every vocation has its misfits. They are in the minority. Just know, that when you call upon help, these everyday heroes will show up and be there for you, no matter what. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all!!