Chief Rusty Thomas:
"The citizens of Charleston lost nine great people," Thomas said. "These nine guys would want us to carry on the traditions of the Charleston Fire Department."
Thomas gave all of his men a challenge this morning at breakfast. "Each one of those
companies. I want them to do something every single day they go to work
that they will never forget these nine great heroes. Every single day."
The crowd rose and gave Thomas a standing ovation.
Looking back, even though those firefighters didn't save anymore lives going back into that fire, they have saved more lives around the world who've been touched by this story. Somewhere, I know I am, people are thinking about how we should be more like these brave nine - not to be whatevers in the world, but to make a difference. To be of service and make sacrifices for others. I believe something good will and already has come out of this tragedy.
Posted by: | June 22, 2007 at 11:59 AM
Nine Less and More
Nine less ordinary men to reach out and to feel,
Nine more men demonstrated extraordinary ideals.
Nine less family men with hearts filled with love,
Nine more with eyes watching and guiding from above.
Nine less pair of firemen's boots billed in the ranks,
Nine more examples inspiring others for which we give thanks.
Nine less laughter and high jinks among friends and brothers,
Nine more memories of good times will be treasured by others.
Nine less whose loss we will always mourn,
Nine more heroes, to look up to, have been born.
Let's remember the "more". I am a proud mother of a Charleston Firefighter
Posted by: travel | June 30, 2007 at 12:29 AM