For complex and interesting reasons, I've just rejoined what amounts to an all-new fire company (it was the company I left at the start of 2008).

This time, I'm going to be focused on rescue/medical exclusively (auto extrication, technical rescue) and for the fire side I'm heading into the engineering side (operation of the trucks and tankers).

If you are a vollie and want to know how to rebuild a failing company, I can tell you in a few words how to do it:

KICK THE DANGEROUS LEADERS OUT AND KEEP THEM OUT.

It's better to have no company at all than a dangerous company.

That's GREAT! Good luck... These issues aren't isolated to volunteer companies, trust me.

You can leave the fire company, but you never leave the brother hood. Good luck Brother!

Fantastic news Yea!

Lee

I still can't believe I'm back in. I get gear and a pager next weekend I don't have lights for the car anymore, need to order some.

I'm way to old for this, but it would seem that emergency services are like the Mafia - you never really can retire!

I had a feeling you may come back at some point in time. It is very hard to totally let go of something that so totally influenced your life at one time. It has been my experience that people may drop out for a period of time but gradually migrate back to what they know is a very rewarding experience.

We had a change in leadership and got my arm-twisted to take one of the open Lieutenant positions.

Pete

Congratulations, Martin. Nothing wrong with doing just rescue (says the EMT who doesn't fight fires). I'm sure your expertise and experience will be put to good use!

GOOD FOR YOU! It's hard to believe your departure was that long ago.

I just sold my old pancake light a few weeks ago, otherwise I would have sent it gratis for you.

Super congratulations!!

Maybe this will help with the weight loss... Don't forget.