Roughly 15 years ago, not long after our city was maimed by terrorists, a friend and I were watching footage of that horrific day, watching as a column of the City’s Bravest were trotting toward the Twin Towers while thousands of civilians were seeking shelter in the opposite direction.
“You’ve got to have something missing to do that job,” my friend said and gently tapped his right index finger against his right temple.
While I understood what he was saying – you have to be certifiable to run headstrong toward certain danger like that; no job is worth your life – I had to disagree.
And last Thursday and Sunday we were provided with examples of why.
I truly believe you have something extra inside you when you pursue the noble career of firefighting. As you’ve probably heard before, it is a calling, one which the candidates are sworn-in knowing that there is a chance that, when they’re on the job, they will leave for work and not come home that night.
Last Thursday, Firefighter William Tolley did just that. He gave his life – and his roles as husband and father – to his city when he fell off a roof fighting a two-alarm fire in Ridgewood.
“Everyone is in a state of shock and grief,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said. “And, to his family, we say we will stand with you not only today, but in the days ahead, and for years and years to come. This is what the FDNY does – stays by families through everything that comes ahead.”
And hundreds watched as firefighters on Sunday afternoon braved thick flames and smoke, nearly giving up everything to try to save the victims of a horrific fire in Queens Village.
“I remain eternally grateful to our city’s emergency responders for their tireless efforts to keep our community safe,” said City Councilman I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans). “Their contributions literally mean the difference between life and death. Residents should take every opportunity to show their appreciation to these exceptional men and women.”
Here-here.
And so, in deep appreciation for firefighters everywhere – but especially here in the greatest city in the world – we would like to ask our faithful readers to please say the Firefighter’s Prayer with us now:
When I am called to duty, God, wherever flames may rage,
give me strength to save a life, whatever be its age.
Help me embrace a little child before it is too late, or save an older person from
the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert, and hear the weakest shout, quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling, to give the best in me, to guard my friend and neighbor,
and protect his property.
And if according to Your will I must answer death’s call,
bless with your protecting hand, my family one and all.
Thank you, Bravest.
