My Nephew is a fire fighter also, worked his way from volunteer to full time. Very proud of this young who grew up in a single parent house hold, dropped out of high school, grew up and has made it to adulthood as a man I am very proud to call my Nephew! Everytime we lose a a fire fighter, a police officer, military personnel, it makes this country just a little less, with a big hole in her heart. Yet, we find young people who are willing to step up and fill that void without being asked. That makes them very special and very dear to me! I many times wish that I would step up and say "Thanks" more often.
One a side note: A good friend of mine and retired sub man, was eating at a local Subway with his Navy cap on. He said a young man of about 19-22 saw him eating and walked silently over; saluted, shook his hand and walked away. Dave said he had to admit to being moved to a teary eyed old sub man.
Dan