“Greater love hath no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friend.”
John 15:13

Volunteerism is just about a thing of the past. When one does happen along, he or she is given a 2-way radio or pager, turnout gear, a map of the area where the VFD responds, and Wham!They are a full-fledged fire fighter. Some departments have 90 day and 6 month probationary periods. Some are so thankful to get the help, it's “Welcome aboard and be careful out there!”

Some departments have SOP's, most do not. Therefore, with little or no training, the new volunteer is on his own, responding to all types of emergency incidents that place their lives on the line each time the tone goes off.

Training is important! Fire emergencies don't care if you are a “paid” or “volunteer” fire fighter. The risks and hazards are the same for each. The 160-hour Certified Volunteer Firefighter course is available through the Alabama Fire College or in the field at your department.

Our association is looking hard at an entry-level minimum number of hours of training during the first year. We are considering a 40-hour First Responder course and 24-hour Firemanship I that will teach the new volunteer CPR and AED, emergency medical treatment, SCBA, EVOC, pump operations, hose, ladder, and building structure basics.

Our volunteers give freely of themselves to their communities to help improve the quality of life in and around their surroundings. I am committed, as I believe you are, to continue to improve “our” fire service training and education. I am also dedicated to “our” Association and to each one of you. I want you to call me at home, 334-397-4032, with any suggestions or concerns. As always, I appreciate your ideas and comments and look forward to working with you this year.

This issue of “The Volunteer” is being dedicated to the memory of Steven F. Bouchard, age 19, of Snowdoun VFD (Montgomery County) and Adam Cody Renfroe, age 24, of Crossville VFD (DeKalb County). Both of these young men lost their lives in the line of duty. This was such a tragic loss to the fire service. Steven was only a few weeks away from graduating EMT school and Cody had been called to come to Irondale as a fire fighter.

Please take time to read “In Honor” elsewhere in the issue which was read at Cody's funeral service.

May “God Bless” our Association and you and your family have a happy and safe holiday season.