Thanks, firefighters, for standing between danger and us
My family owns a ranch on McKenzie Ridge about 1,500 yards from where the Rough fire was stopped. My thoughts...
To firefighters everywhere: Thank you for being warriors.
In a world filled with digital functions, thank you for being physical. Thank you for being the strong back that hauls hose, the hard legs that walk the line, the calloused hands that wield the shovel.
In a world that values property and possessions, thank you for fighting to save someone else’s belongings. Thank you for leaving your own home, camping out on basics, being our good neighbor.
In a world that emphasizes a college degree, thank you for knowing that an educated mind needs a muscled body to do the work. Thank you for learning your skill, staying in shape, working the long shift.
In a world that knows risk, thank you for standing between danger and us. Thank you for answering the call, making a stand, saying, “Not on my watch.”
You’ve served us not knowing us,and we haven’t known you. But we know that your choice to be a warrior proves your character and quality, and we pray God’s richest blessings on you and all that you love and hold dear.
Jenifer Gross, Reedley
This story was originally published September 22, 2015 at 8:15 AM with the headline "Thanks, firefighters, for standing between danger and us."