Thirty years ago this month I began this journey in fire and emergency service that would soon lead to a rewarding career. At 16 years old I wasnt doing very well in school and had no vision for my future. That changed when I began recruit class at Campbellsville - Taylor County Rescue Squad. Not only did I find a sense of what my future might be but my school performance improved and I found myself on the honor roll with a 4.0 in classes like Algebra, Chemistry and Anatomy and Physiology. I have had many mentors along the way that I have learned so much from and I am still learning to this day. So many that have earned legendary status in this business. But one of my early mentors scared me at first. He came off as stern and impatient but he was successful and demanded success because in this business we cant settle for anything less. I would also find that this tough, always serious guy would have a softer side as well, as he truly cared for those in need and would do anything to help them. Even the very ones that may have ridiculed him in the past. I was taught so much but one of the most significant was excellence. This was one of Chief Shaws favorite quotes. “Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” Chief Shaw had no tolerance for ignorance and laziness. In this line of work you had to be your very best and be open for business. Thirty years of service in a career this rewarding. Some ups and downs but I wouldnt change a thing.
Posted on: Sat, 01 Nov 2014 15:20:28 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015