Today is International Firefighters Day, a well deserved recognition of the men and women who have the guts to do what most of us would not do, enter a burning building to recuse a total stranger, or a dog.

Firefighters, like most public servants are often the target of criticism because they earn their keep on the public dole but when we need them they are there and we couldn't be more happy to see them. Sure, they are paid well and maybe some work side jobs while they are off duty but when they are on, they are on.

Firefighters are often the first responders to medical calls or to cut you out of a crunched car that has hit a utility pole.  They are there when your basement floods or worst, the attic caves in in a fire, or to carry your mother down three flights on a ladder when all escape routes are inaccessible.

Like police officers, firefighters are the frontline when things go bad and we need help.  They leave home in the morning never knowing if they will return at night.  They have wives and kids who wonder if the last time they see their firefighter is literally the last time they see their firefighter.

Firefighters were our heroes on September 11th when they entered the burning, twisted  hell that was the World Trade Center Towers knowing full well that it was likely their final journey.  They climbed those stairs to save others and never cowered thinking about their own mortality. Many died and we cried with their families but honored their bravery.  We remember six brave firemen who died in Worcester in The Cold Storage Warehouse who gave it all because they heard there were homeless people trapped in the mill building. Time has passed  but memories of those sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Thank a firefighter when you can and remember them as we recognize International Firefighters Day. Many of us would not be here if not for them.

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