RIP Firefighters

Two Boston firefighters were killed and at least 12 others were injured Wednesday night as flames rushed through a restaurant in West Roxbury, collapsing the roof and trapping crews inside, public safety officials said. The two veteran firefighters who died, Paul J. Cahill, 55, of Scituate and Warren J. Payne, 53, of Canton, were identified by the officials and a firefighter on the scene. They were the first deaths of firefighters in a fire since 1994. from www.boston.com

Wow - to see firefighters come together when they have lost their brothers. The flags are half staff. Firefighters from around the country came to be a part of the memorial services. A son spoke at Paul Cahill's service and his dad was so proud of him. His commonwealth was so proud. His brothers were proud.

Why am I talking about this? My brother is a firefighter. He has been one for a LONG time. :-). He received an award of honor for his work during the Hurricane Isabel of 2003. He wasn't the only one, but he was one. After 9/11, I wondered about my brother and how his family would be supported if anything happened. After the incident in Boston, I wonder the same thing. No matter what, they won't get what they deserve, at least financially. Just like teachers, they don't get what they deserve - but that is for another post.

But what I have learned is how they will be supported in other ways. What they will get, something teachers in my experience don't seem to provide, what the firefighters will get is a camaraderie and brotherhood that can never be broken. Thank you for serving us and taking care of us. Maybe one day we can all learn from your bond.