Remember EMS & Fire Personel

September 11 is a somber day for everyone in the United States but for me and my fellow EMS & Fire brothers and sisters it is a time of remembrance. We have a duty to act when the pager alerts that our fellow mankind is in need of our helping hands. We get up in the middle of the night, walk out of our houses never thinking this may be the last time we see our families. We choose to do this because we have a desire to use the skills god gave us to make a difference in just one life.

On the eve of September 11 I remember and thank god for each and every Fire Fighter and Emergency Medical Technician and their families who paid the ultimate price for their selfless duty to act. Tonight I say the paramedic's and fireman's prayer in their honor. May god bless the families they left behind.

"A Paramedic's Prayer"

As I perform my duty, Lord,
Whatever be the call
Help to guide and keep me safe,
From dangers big and small.

I want to serve and do my best
No matter what the scene,
I promise to keep my skills refined,
My judgment sharp and keen.
This calling to give of myself,
most do not understand,
But I stand ready all the time
to help my fellow man.

A word of thanks I might not hear,
but knowing is enough,
That I have helped just even one
To go on to live and love.

"Firefighter's Prayer"

When I am called to duty, God
Wherever flames may rage
Give me the strength to save some life
Whatever be the age

Help me to embrace a little child
Before it is too late
Or save and older person
From the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert
And hear the weakest shout
And quickly and efficiently
To put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling
And to give the best in me
To guard my every neighbor
And protect his property

And if according to my fate
I am to lose my life
Please bless with your protecting hand
The loved one's in my life