To My Fellow Brothers and Sisters in Volunteer Emergency Services,

For over five years my dad has been a member of our local fire department. Knowing my interest in emergency medical services, he asked if I wanted to join as a junior member when I was sixteen; I was ecstatic. Over these past four years, I have learned a great deal about how to fight fires, operations and the function of the department. Now, at the age of twenty, I have become an EMT for this volunteer fire department.

There is nothing more rewarding than being a member on my local department. We are the true definition of a brotherhood. I have made some true life-long friends on this department; we are all a tight-knit community and we all have each other’s backs. I look up to many members as my role models, as our leaders are very knowledgeable and well-rounded. I can’t speak for everyone but for me becoming an active member of this department was one of the best decisions that I have ever made.

I think it’s impossible to thank you all for what you do, but I would sure like to try. I would like to thank every person who volunteers their time in emergency services. Thank you for doing what you do, whether it be fighting fires or responding to emergency medical calls. The fact that you do it from the pure kindness of your own heart is truly admirable. Thank you for leaving in the middle of the night or excusing yourself in the middle of a meal with your family, to respond to emergency calls. With that being said, thank you for responding despite weather conditions; it could be raining, sleeting or snowing and you would not think twice about responding in the event of an emergency. Thank you for your countless hours of dedication while you train. I understand that training may be tedious or very intense at times but it truly pays off when you use the information in real life situations. Thank you for being so courageous putting others needs before your own. Thank you for being my heroes and role models. Thank you, for everything.

I read a poem called “Why Be a Volunteer?” This anonymous author wrote that, “It’s not for money, it’s not for fame, and it’s not for any personal gain. It’s just for love of fellow man. It’s just to lend a helping hand…” As times get tough, I hope you always remember why you became a volunteer in the first place. It may not always seem like it but please remember that the community that you serve is so grateful for everything that you do! Stay safe out there!

Respectfully,

Sara