Proud to be a firefighter

(a message to the general public)

By Lt. David Polikoff

Since the tragedies on Sept. 11th, there seems to be a new appreciation for firefighters (career and volunteer).  It saddens me to know that 343 of my fellow brother firefighters had to die, for the general public to know how vital we our to the country.  This appreciation should have been there all along. Since Sept. 11th I have received thank yous , hand shakes, food, cards and pictures from all people child to elderly.  I always remind the public " hey don't forget us in 2 weeks"  they ask "what happens in 2 weeks"  I tell them " that is about the time we are forgotten".  

As of this writing Nov. 6th  I am still getting thank yous and hand shakes.  It is a great feeling to be acknowledge for the job you do.  It seems that us firefighters only become appreciated when there is a tragedy. That is a shame.  we are out there doing the job 24/7. We are there when you (the general public) need us, we never question your need.  We know that we have a job to do, and we will perform that job, because we are not afraid to do it.  Just like my 343 brothers of the FDNY.  They went in and did their job, above and beyond the call of duty. They paid with their lives, but they saved over 25,000 people!!

It does not matter if you have career firefighters or a volunteers in your community, get to know  them.  Tell them you appreciate them every time you see them, not when you need them.  Give donations to the volunteers and support the career firefighters. All firefighters love cookies!  Never forget the sacrifice they are willing to make so you the general public can be safe everyday.  I challenge you the public to support the firefighters and let your neighbors know how you feel.  Keep all firefighters in your prayers and show them you care whenever you can.

I have always been proud to be a firefighter, now more than ever. I am proud of the uniform I wear and the job I do.  That will never change.    I know that I am not alone in my statements. My fellow brothers and sisters in the fire service all over the world feel the same.  Now it is time for you to do the same.