Remembering our Heroes on Volunteer Firefighters Day...

"All men are created equal, then a few become firemen." ~Author Unknown

We've all seen this image time and time again. As it brings back memories of over 10 years ago, we don't often reflect upon the people behind it. Today is the day we celebrate the unsung hero who bravely rushes into peril to save someone he doesn't even know. January 10th is Volunteer Firefighter's day.

The first organized force of firefighters was the Corps of Vigiles in Roman times. Now there are volunteer Fire, EMS, and Rescue Services around the world. Every 23 seconds . . . somewhere in

 the United States firefighters are responding to a call. What you probably don't know is that three out of four firefighters are volunteers, risking their lives for others - and sometimes losing their own.

Of the 72 firefighters who died while on duty in 2010, 44 were volunteers.

Today Remembered.com recognizes their sacrifices by offering free memorials for any Firefighter who has passed on whether on duty or by other causes.

Just visit our website at : Remembered.com for information on how to create a free memorial.

Super... Heroes...

In New York City, the murder rate has been steadily dropping since around 1995 or so. Which in itself is a great thing. At the rate it's going down, the leading cause of death in NYC will soon be "acting in the new Spiderman musical". Okay, I'm kidding - you're much more likely to die waiting for the airports to open after a snowstorm. I can't leave for 4 more days? Really? Come on!

So today's blog post is really about some real heroes. The ones you see every day and probably know a few. And since tomorrow is Volunteer Firefighter's day - it's only right that we talk about our nation's bravest. Lets start here - remember these guys?

It's pretty amazing that this image has been seared into our minds for over 9 years now. I was right across the street when it all happened. Watched from the windows as the towers collapsed. When I got home I didn't sleep, didn't shower, didn't shave, didn't speak, didn't leave the house for 3 days. I was glued to the TV set and my mental state was just... In a word... F@#KEDUP.

Not everyone retreated. Some heard the call and ran out the door. It takes a certain type of personality to run TOWARDS something that is going to wreck you. I'm happy that they passed the 9-11 responder's bill in Congress. The people who put themselves in harms way when everyone else was herding in the other direction - these are our heroes. No, wait - these are our SUPER HEROES. So on January 10th, 2011 we are going to celebrate those people who heard the calling, responded, and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

So to recap... Monday, January 10th, 2011 is Volunteer Firefighter's Day. If you see a fireman, a firewoman, or a dalmation. Give them a hand, give them a hug, give them a high five. They deserve it.

We are going to do what we do best. Give them a memorial. Because someone who paid the price deserves to be recognized. And if it creates an ounce of prevention, just one less fire, and a bit more appreciation for those that risk their lives - it will be 100% my pleasure.

Create a memorial for free here: Volunteer Firefighters Online Memorials

Thanks,

The Staff @ Remembered.com