On June 9, I shared with you an excerpt of an article written by Bttn. Chief Mark Sacra of Chesterfield County (Va.) Fire & EMS about his Memorial Day experience at the National Fire Academy. That day Sacra joined other staff and students to attend the funeral of a local Emmitsburg soldier killed in a roadside bombing in Iraq. Sacra's article on the services and the eulogies prompted several responses from readers, including an e-mail from Fire Marshal Jeff Allen, Irmo Fire District, Columbia, S.C.

"We don't put enough effort into this type of recognition," Allen wrote. "Our military men and women are finishing the job that the terrorists started on 9/11/01 when we lost so many. Each time they pay the ultimate sacrifice and are returned home for the final time, the fire service (and police and EMS) need to show our support. This article is a great story. Thanks for passing it along."

Well, I'm sure members of the fire service do honor returning soldiers, whether they are firefighters who are serving in the military or local community servicemen and women. The American fire service is made up of noble men and women who appreciate and respect any aspect of public service that puts their life on the line.

This Sept. 11 is the fifth anniversary of the day that America got punched in the gut. In addition to the memorials being planned, I'd like to suggest that we remember our military service men and women, particularly those serving in the Middle East, with a card or note of support to arrive in September.

If you know of a firefighter, EMT or other first responder who is serving overseas, send us their e-mail or mailing address and we'll share them with our readers. Or forward a soldier's address to your friends and ask that they consider sending a note to the soldiers who are trying to make right so many wrongs. Whether or not you agree with the military efforts, these soldiers put their lives on the line everyday, prompted by an attack five years ago.

One more thing: This Fourth of July, whether you participate in a local parade or are watching one, as the American flag passes by, place your hand on your heart and remember all the men and women — fire, police, rescue workers and others — who worked at Ground Zero. Many of these people are suffering from emerging emotional and physical health problems.

God bless America, home of the brave!

Janet Wilmoth, Editorial Director
janet@firechief.com