To the Editor:
My family suffered a tragedy this week. We lost my beloved father-in-law, Elmer Bittle, to a heart attack. But it wasn’t for lack of trying. The first-responders from York Village Fire Department and the York Police Department were efficient, quiet and focused. They did their business with professionalism and confidence. They gave it all they had and it was obvious. My family and I thank them.
It takes a special type of person to be a firefighter. I know because I tried it. It didn’t take long to realize that I lacked the kind of resilience needed to confront death on a regular basis. There are those who are made for it, and those who aren’t. The men and women of York Village Fire are. And they prove that fact — day and night, rain or shine — to a community that too often takes them for granted.
For a short time, I was able to see their department from the inside, studying their training manuals, going through their drills, responding to calls. But it wasn’t until I saw them from this side of a tragedy that I realized what, at the end of the day, they’re really about.
They showed me that being a fireman isn’t just about saving babies, the big things. It’s about the humanity they bring to a thankless job, the small things that mean so much to people who are suffering loss: the young fireman who takes care of the grieving family’s dog, the paramedic who offers a hug or a handshake.
Being election season, people talk a lot about things like financial regulation and deficits — stuff that sometimes seems remote and a bit incomprehensible to many of us, myself included. But there is nothing intangible about the people who show
up to your car accidents, your house fires, your tragedies — most without asking a dime from anyone.
There are simple things that the people of York can do to help our firefighters and EMTs. First, when you see flashing red coming from an unmarked car or truck, pull over like you would for the blue lights and siren of a police car. It costs you a second; it can save lives. Second, reach out to your community leaders, the people with the purse strings. When there is talk of cutting the fire department budget, call York Village Chief Chris Balentine and ask him about the price tags for basic equipment like air packs. We already get their skilled labor for free. We owe them the respect of making sure they have the tools they need. Third, if you see something you think they’re doing wrong, think twice before spouting off. Not only do they know what they’re doing, but nine out of 10 times they’ve left family and comfort behind to help you for free. At the very least, thank them when you see them. Maybe buy them a beer or a coffee. They earn that — and much more — every time their beeper goes off.
Kelly Hearn
York