05/22/2025
"And Yet Still, We Volunteer"
I tried to save this child, but he's met his fate.
His innocent eyes are void of hate.
He and his father weren't walking far,
When they were both struck down by a drunkard's car.
This night I know I will not sleep.
These terrible images my mind will keep.
I know these nightmares linger near.
And yet still, I volunteer.
Her eyes well up - compress the chest,
Say a silent prayer - then two quick breaths.
She's done this many times before,
This fight for life kneeling on the floor.
But this time it's her best friend's mom,
Whose lifeless body she is working on.
This call like others will end in tears,
And yet still, she volunteers.
From slumber woke by a siren's wail,
He rushes out in a bitter gale.
While others sleep this stormy night,
A raging blaze this man will fight.
Bravely putting himself in danger,
To save the home of a total stranger.
Body cold and tired, he feels his years,
And yet still, he volunteers.
We train, we test, we do our best.
We give an awful lot of time.
And don't get paid a single dime.
“Thanks” is a word we seldom hear.
And yet still, we volunteer.
Author: Eric Levdahl
It’s been said up to 75% of the fire service worldwide is voluntary / unpaid service.
May God richly bless those brothers and sisters who VOLUNTEER... despite what you may hear from haters; you are the backbone of the fire service.
