Modern Minutemen

Michael Schiff
Posted 8/21/12

I have always had a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the members of the volunteer fire service. This has caused me to reflect on the recent devastating brush fire that occurred on the …

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Modern Minutemen

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I have always had a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the members of the volunteer fire service. This has caused me to reflect on the recent devastating brush fire that occurred on the Shawangunk Ridge in Summitville, NY. Several hundred men and women went into the woods and put themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives and property of people whom in many cases they didn’t even know. In the end, there were no deaths, no homes lost and no serious injuries. An amazing feat given the odds they were up against. They are true heroes.

Two hundred and seventy-nine years ago, Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer fire department in Philadelphia. Many other founding fathers of the United States, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Hancock and Paul Revere, were volunteer firefighters as well. While many of these patriots were famous for their roles as “Minutemen” in the American Revolution, the principles of both services were basically the same; they were simply volunteers who were ready to respond at a moment’s notice, to put their life on the line, in order to protect their fellow citizens.

As a young state trooper, I spent many nights on the desolate back roads of Sullivan County. I took comfort in knowing that no matter where I was, if I encountered a serious car accident, a medical emergency or a lost child, a call for help would bring the dedicated professionals of the local fire department. More than once I paused with the thought, that it was 3 a.m. and I was about to wake up several firefighters who were safely at home, with their families, probably sleeping. But never in a single case did a firefighter ever complain to me.

Our volunteer firefighters are today’s modern version of “Minutemen.” When the alarm sounds, they respond in minutes and risk their lives for us. Whether it is a natural or manmade disaster, you can count on them being there. Almost three centuries later, the fire service continues to embody the American spirit of volunteerism and the notion that a community can come together to help itself. I may not have always had a chance to thank the volunteer firefighters who came to assist me over the years. So let me take this opportunity now to thank each and every one of you for your service and incredible personal sacrifice. You continue to be true American heroes.

[Michael Schiff is the elected sheriff of Sullivan County. He previously served 28 years as a New York State Trooper.]

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