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The power of people ….

It should be pretty evident that I’ve taken some time off … a lot of time actually.

I wasn’t sure how long I’d be away … I wasn’t even sure if I’d come back at all.

When I say “away”, I’m speaking mostly of my social media presence … posting here on Ironfiremen.com and staying active on my Face Book pages. I even though about going away physically … packing up and moving. I just wanted to get away … to forget and leave the events of the last 3 months behind me. To start over somewhere new. It wouldn’t have worked and I knew it.

Instead, I dug a hole and crawled into it. I isolated myself from everyone…. at home and on the job. Despite wanting to “put my boots back on”… (Read “A Firefighter’s Boots), I didn’t want to see or talk to anyone. I didn’t even respond to hundreds of e-mails / messages. That didn’t work either … holes are dark places and I was lost (Read “Positional Awareness …Where the Hell am I?”)

Looking back, I think I was just trying to avoid those awkward situations. Most people didn’t know what to say to me or how to say it. Many that tried would often say the wrong thing. Here’s some helpful hints …

“The 10 Best and Worst things to say to someone in grief”

Yes, I’m still grieving but, slowly and surely I’m climbing my way out of this hole.

It’s the “power of people”. You guys haven’t left my side. Even though I haven’t responded, the e-mails, letters, phone calls and messages keep coming in. You’ve stood by me with sympathy and support like I’ve never experienced. People like Peggy Sweeney (The Sweeney Alliance) and Shannon Pennington (Firefighter Veteran) have picked me up on a daily basis.

In the last two weeks, I’ve seen some daylight. I’ve been getting out and around other people some and it’s helping. I’ll share some of those events with ya in this post …

It started with 2 days of teaching our recruit Class #16.

I taught Fire Behavior and Control along with Salem Senior Firefighter / Medic Chris Smith aka.. “Smitty”.

That happened just at the time my wife had a lump removed from behind her breast (surgery went well … results are back and was not cancer). My mind really wasn’t focused on firefighting but it proved to be a welcome and needed “distraction”.

I seen a lot of potential in this group of recruits but it’s still early in their training and that have a way to go yet. They were attentive and seemed eager to learn. They asked several great questions and I think (hope) they all learned something over the 2 days I got to spend with them. They are lucky to have the caliber of instructors they have scheduled for their academy. I reminded them that THEY asked to be here. I hope they WANT to. They were given the opportunity and now it’s up to them to prove they belong. It’s up to them to EARN that position … nobody will “give” it to them. It takes dedication and heart and we can’t teach either of them! Good luck to Recruit Class #16.

That weekend, our local Football team, The Roanoke Rampage; hosted Cincinnati here in Roanoke.

The Rampage play in the National Public Safety Football League. The teams are made up of Firefighters, Police Offices and EMS personnel.

All the teams are non-profit and play for various charities local to their perspective cities.

The Rampage won by a score of 20-2 and moved to 2-0 in their division. Their complete schedule can be found in the links above. Be sure to also check out the NPSFL site to find the team nearest you and lend your support. The next two game for the Rampage are away games but I’m hoping to attend at least one of them. Follow the Rampage on Face Book … click HERE !

We did a little pre-game tailgating for this one.

Of course we did it “Ironfiremen.com” style and set the camper up.

Several folks made it by to share in the food, beverages and Brotherhood.

We even had a celebrity hang out for the day. Team Hunter was on hand and in full force. The Buckaroo and Hunter had as much fun (if not more) than most of the adults. If you’re not familiar with Team Hunter, check them out on Face Book by clicking HERE or the link above. Hunter’s a GREAT kid and your support has made (and continues to make) a difference in his life. Be sure to “Like” his page and send in a photo …. it really makes his day.

It was a great time and I really enjoyed seeing and talking to everyone who stopped by. Hunter’s dad, Baron; took hundreds of photos and I’ll try to get a few up on my Face Book page later on.

Click HERE to Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book

I’ve had some more “people time” with friends back at the station as well.

You folks may remember or know Andrew Catron from blog The Model City Firefighter .

Andrew is a good friend and a Brother Firefighter from Kingsport Tenn. Andrew was one of the guys who went with me and Rhett to FDIC last year. Andrew is one the guys who “gets it”. He’s very active in many aspects of the fire service and he’s making a positive impression on many of the people he’s reaching.

Beyond his Blog (linked above) and many other things, he is also very active with the National Firefighter’s Endowment. If you noticed the job shirt I was wearing in the second picture of this post, it’s from the NFE and Andrew was very instrumental in their development. Learn more about Andrew by clicking HERE and return the support by following his blog “The Model City Firefighter”. You can find / follow him on Face Book by clicking HERE .

Andrew and his family (Rachel and Issac) made a trip up to Roanoke to see the sites and check in on me and Rhett. I always tease Andrew by calling Rachel his “sister”…. I tell him there’s no other way a gal that pretty would hang out with him …. LOL.

He knows I’m just kidding but Rachel actually believed I though she was his sister for a while …LMAO.

Well, she’s prettier in person and Issac and me hit it off from minute one!

We had a GREAT visit. We hung out at station #13 for a while before heading down to Historic Station #1 and our Fallen Firefighter Memorial.

Later that evening, they visited the Mill Mountain Zoo / overlook before heading to Blacksburg for dinner with Andrew’s brother. I think and hope they had a good visit … I know I enjoyed it. You’ll be seeing more of Andrew soon as he will once again be traveling with us to FDIC in a few weeks.

Another good friend and Brother Firefighter stopped in later that evening as well.

Nate Camfiord took the time out of his busy schedule to check in on me. You guys may know Nate from his AWESOME photography. He was the one behind the camera for our Ironfiremen / Fire Critic.com “Hey Brother” tee-shirt promotion. He’s also the Brother who started the “Boot” campaign in my healing process as well as many other projects including Team Hunter.

Nate will become even more well know and famous following FDIC this year as one of his photos will be on the cover of one of PennWell’s latest publications (more on this in a future post).

It was another great visit with many laughs shared. Be sure to click his name above as I linked it to his Face Book page … you’ll LOVE his photos!

Most recently, I’ve spent some time camping with friends. I’m ruined! LOL

On Friday, Kevin and I pulled the Buckaroo out of school early and headed to Claytor Lake to set up.

Later that day, Roanoke County Firefighter Brandon Sheppard (and his family) along with Radford Fire Department’s Henry Barnett (and his family) joined our group.

It was a GREAT weekend and very relaxing!!

Lazy days spent watching the Buckaroo and Hunter play while just taking it easy and enjoying where we were.

Walks through the woods …. to the lake, play ground and beach.

There’s just “something” about getting out and camping that’s refreshing.

Everything seems “better” when you’re camping.

Even the food. Yea …. that’s Brandon Sheppard cooking breakfast!

We’re going to be doing a LOT more camping this year… a LOT LOT more. Even if we just set up by the creek on the farm, we’re gonna be camping somewhere.

Of course it’s not all about “getting away” either.

Sometimes, as it was at Claytor Lake this weekend; it’s good to be around other people.

I still have my long johns on yet their were people laying out on the beach! Now that’s the kind of people I like to be around … the ones wearing bikinis! LMAO

If you have a camper or tent and want to join (or invite) us for a camping trip, just hit me up. We’ll be somewhere pretty much every weekend and would love the company. You’ll have a BLAST!

So, thanks to EVERYONE for the continued support. It feels good to be getting out again and you’ll be seeing a lot more of me from this point on. Rhett and I have FDIC coming up in two weeks and I have a ton of other stuff to share as well. Keep checking back here and following on Face Book for all the details.

Until then, stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on April 15, 2013 • Filed under: news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Andrew Catron, brotherhood, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Claytor Lake, Dave Statter, Fire Critic, firefighter, firefighter photography, firefighter pics, football, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, Model City Firefighter, Nate Camfiord, National Firefighters Endowment, NFE, NFFF, North American Firefighter Veteran Network, NPSFL, Peggy Sweeney, Recruit school, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Roanoke Rampage, rookie firefighters, Team Hunter, The Sweeney Alliance, Va State Parks, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Climbing out ….

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The good news is that I’m back in my “boots”. I’m back in bunker gear and pulling regular tours.

The bad news is that I’m still not 100% and I know I never will be again. I’m still working through the grieving process and searching for my “new normal” (read my previous post “Searching for a New Normal” by clicking HERE) .

In another previous post (“Melt Down”) , I told ya about the “stages of grief” and how grief is as individual as the person suffering through it. We don’t necessarily go through the stages in order and by no means in the same way.

I’m currently working through the “depression” stage (and, I believe; suffering through PTSD).

I was expecting it but have never fully understood exactly what “depression” was. I’m learning the hard way.

My thoughts continue to wonder with every waking moment and it’s difficult for me to focus.

I still can’t eat. I just don’t have an appetite … I’m not hungry. When I try to force myself to eat, I throw it back up so I figure why bother.

I’m sleeping some at night now but I’m not REALLY “sleeping”. I’m tired all the time and can’t motivate myself to get out and do anything. I try to make myself go “somewhere” or do “something” but I don’t. I know I need to.

I haven’t even been able to write (evident in my recent lack of postings and absence from Face Book).

I’m not getting along well with others … I just want to be alone.

All these things seem so petty and easy to fix but they’re not.

That’s the hardest part for me. I know what’s happening and what I need to do ….. I just can’t muster the energy or motivation to get it done.

I have to start climbing my way out of this hole … I thought I have been but it doesn’t feel like I’m making much progress. I can’t stay here (like this) forever.

One of the folks I’ve been seeing offered a prescription for anti-depressants. It’s not for me. There’s a small part of me that almost took her up on it just so I could learn for myself (and share with you folks) if they (the pills) “really” work or not. Unfortunately, I’m not the “pill” taking kind ( I hardly even even take an aspirin) so I won’t be able to tell you “first hand” about anti-depressants. I can tell you that depression is REAL . It’s an illness that can be crippling.

I see a lot of it in the firehouse for one reason or another. Not just in situations like mine (the loss of a loved one) but also over financial issues, marital problems etc. If you want to learn more about depression and take your “Depression IQ quiz”, take a minute and CLICK HERE .

The best thing for me has been talking about it. Getting “it” out of my head and off my chest. I’ve wrote about them a lot here lately but once again, I want to share with you some folks who you CAN TALK TO. People who understand and that do MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

These folks are not just for you or me either. They are there for our Brothers and Sisters as well and it’s up to us to let them know that help is available. PAY ATTENTION … look around you. If someone in your company, your Battalion, Department or whatever is needing help, point them in this direction. You know … firefighter “so and so” whos wife just left him. Ol “what’s his name” from Engine whatever who just took a 3rd mortgage out because he lost his 2nd job. That S.O.B on the Ladder who we all know has been drinking too much …. all these Brothers have someone to turn to. Let them know before it’s too late. Here are the links ….

Grief.com, Recover from Grief.com , The Sweeney Alliance,Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, North American Firefighter Veteran Network

I had a bad day yesterday. Like most everyday, there’s always something that will remind me of Jackson.

I pulled a tour Saturday (we work 24hr shifts) and when I got home yesterday morning, the Buckaroo was waiting for me. It was 8am , he missed his “Paw-Paw” and wanted to play.

He got his motorcycle toy out. It’s like the old Evil Knievel wind up toy. If you’re a boy and anywhere near my age (44), I’d bet you had one.

I showed him how to use some books / magazines to make a ramp so we could make some jumps down the hallway. It was just how me and Jack did it when we were kids.

I could see us like it was just yesterday. Then the thought hit me (as it always does in situations like this) …. I wanted to call Jackson and tell him what we were doing. He would LOVE it! Knowing that me and the Buckaroo were doing exactly what he and I did as kids. I know he’d remember our ramps … our jumps…. fighting over who went next…. he’d understand and know EXACTLY what we were feeling / doing. He’d have that unforgettable smile on his face just thinking about it.

I’ll never get to make “those” calls again … not to Jackson and it’s killing me. This grief … the depression…. it keeps knocking me down but I won’t let it keep me here.

Like I said in the beginning of this post, I have to start climbing my way out of this hole.

“CLIMBING”…… Seems I wrote about that one time …. back in July of 2011 actually in a post titled “We are all Climbing” (Take the time to hit the link and read that post … I think you’ll find it worthwhile). Stairs, ladders or whatever obstacle, it seems we all are indeed “climbing”.

Me? I’m gonna find my way out …. I’m gonna find that “new normal” because I’m going to keep climbing …. it’s all I know to do.

I’m gonna start by getting out of town again. I’m going to head up north and spend a little time in NYC and out on Long Island.

I’m going to attend the Long Island Fire, Rescue and EMS Mega Show on Feb. 23rd / 24th. I’ll be working the booth with my MN8 FoxFire family but I’ll also be doing what I love best … meeting, spending time with and talking to all the Brothers and Sisters in attendance. I think it will be just what I need to get “moving” again …. to “re-engage” and get “back in the game”.

I’ll get ya more details in the next day or so …. until then, thanks again for all the support. Thanks too for allowing me to share all of this with you …. I LOVE YA ALL!

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on February 18, 2013 • Filed under: administration-leadership, ems-health-safety, ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Baltimore, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Depression, emotional health, Evil Knievel, FDNY, FDNY Rescue 1, Fire Critic, Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, firefighter health and wellness, Firefighter mental health, Firehouse Expo 2011, Fox Fire, grief, Jack Wines, Joe Schmoe, Joey Angelini, Joseph Angenlini, Kevin Totten, Kevin Tottin, Long Island Fire Rescue and EMS Mega show, mental health, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 products, NFFF, North American Firefighter Veteran Network, Paul Combs, Report on Conditions, Rescue 1, Rescue me, Rhett Fleitz, September 11, September 11 attacks, stages of grief, stair climb, Statter 911, The Sweeney Alliance, Tommy Gavin, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, World Trade Center attacks

Obituary and Funeral Arrangements for John Charles “Jack” Wines (Willie’s Brother)

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This is Rhett posting for Captain Wines. He is unable to get to the computer during this time of mourning. I am handling a few things for him in his absence.

Willie’s only brother, John Charles “Jack” Wines, died this past weekend at the age of 41. Jack is the son of Retired Firefighter Willie Wines Sr. I have been with Willie over the past couple of days and he is maintaining. He appreciates all of the phone calls, emails, FB messages, and texts. He has kept up a little bit and it has helped through this emotional time.

If you have any questions, need information or addresses, or anything else please email me at firecritic@firecritic.com or text me if you have my phone number (it is on my Facebook profile.) – Rhett Fleitz

Funeral arrangements:

A Funeral Service will be held at 10 a.m. at Oakey’s North Chapel on Saturday, January 5, 2013, with Pastor Steve Van Houton officiating. Interment will follow in Fairfield Cemetery, Fairfield, Va., with a Graveside Service at 1 p.m. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, January 4, 2013, at Oakey’s North Chapel.

The address of Oakey’s North Chapel: 6732 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, VA 24019

Obituary: (online here)

John Charles (Jack) Wines, 41, of Roanoke, died on Sunday evening, December 30, 2012. Jack was in the landscaping business, enjoyed life and being with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his stepmother, Peggy Wines; his paternal grandfather, Jack Wines; grandfather, William H. Creasy; and his maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Glenidene Hubbard.

Jack is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Humphreys Wines; his children, John (Jess) Wines, Charles, Brook, and Amanda Wines; his grandchildren, Josiah and Johanna Wines; his father, William (Willie) Wines Sr. and wife, Robyn, of Roanoke; his mother, Carolyn Layne Creasy and husband, Jerry, of Indian Trail, N.C.; his paternal grandmother, Eugenia Wines, of Fairfield; his grandmother, Helen Creasy; his brother, Willie Wines Jr. and wife, Donna, of Catawba; his sister, Marci Barrier and husband, Aaron, of Indian Trail, N.C.; half sister, Jessica Marie Creasy, of Long Beach, Calif.; stepsisters, Lisa Clark and husband, Troy, of Buena Vista, and Sarah Duffy and husband, Derick, of Roanoke; stepbrothers, Jason Wade and Matthew Wade, both of Ferrum; also numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many devoted friends.

Posted by The Fire Critic on January 3, 2013 • Filed under: news • Tagged: Captain Willie Wines, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Ironfiremen, IronFiremen.com, Jack Wines, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Questions Remain for Botetourt County After Former Chief Arrested for Rape

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Hey there readers…yeah, both of you. This is The Fire Critic guest posting on IronFiremen.com. In a recent court appearance, the Judge asked Captain Wines to refrain from posting about now former Buchanan VFD Chief Billy Joe Carter. Willie is well known as “by the book Wines” so I have put this post together to keep you up to speed.

You see, Willie’s arch enemy; Billy Joe Carter is back in the news. This time, he’s been arrested on charges of rape. He’s being held without bond in the Botetourt County jail. He’s scheduled for a hearing on November 14th.

Related links HERE, HERE and HERE .

If you follow Captain Wines (Ironfiremen.com) at all then you’ll know the history between the two.

Carter was injured on the scene of a Botetourt County fire in early January 2012. Something caught Willie’s eye and he dug into the situation a little deeper. I don’t think he expected to find everything he did.

What he uncovered was a mess. The sad thing was that it went deeper than Chief Billy Joe Carter. It was actually deeper than The Buchanan VFD and, deeper than Botetourt County’s Department of Emergency Services.

Billy Joe Carter is (and was at the time) a convicted felon. He’s not the only one operating in Botetourt County as an Emergency responder. Willie took a hard stance against convicted felons serving in fire and / or EMS agencies and sought input from his followers.

The Media caught on and it turned into quite the show. Billy Joe Carter was self destructing and looked as if he would take the BVFD with him. You wouldn’t believe some of the things Carter said and did. Willie summed it up fairly well in his postings, check the links below

It got so bad that one of our local newspapers even called for Chief Carter’s resignation. The Editorial said “An asbestos suit can’t protect Billy Joe Carter from self conflagration ignited by his heated rhetoric and actions.”

It also said “Buchanan’s fire chief can quell the department’s public relations crisis with one action: his resignation.”

Read Step Down, Billy Joe Carter

Of course all the attention only fired Billy Joe up more. In July, he threatened not only Willie but his family. It was bad enough that Willie pressed charges.

It all culminated in these latest charges. It looks like Mr. Carter will be behind bars for a long time. He should be. It also appears Captain Wines was right. This is the exact behavior and outcome Willie warned about.

It was never 100% about Billy Joe Carter as far as Willie was concerned. It was more so about the liability that Botetourt County was accepting in allowing him to serve. The interesting thing is that Carter was not the only convicted Felon serving in Botetourt County. There are others serving throughout the County still today, some even as Chief.

Carr Boyd, Botetourt’s Director of Emergency Services since March 2012 had his hands full when he accepted the position . It seemed as though he had a good grasp on the Buchanan “issues” but also had his hands somewhat tied due to the timing of his appointment.

Billy Joe Carter took care of himself and now, the Buchanan VFD has voted to relinquish their status as an independent origination and turn control of the Department over to Botetourt County. Boyd will appoint a Volunteer Captain who in turn will appoint 2 Lieutenants. There will no longer be a volunteer Chief’s position. “Botetourt County’s Department of Emergency Services will assume responsibility for managing the Buchanan department’s finances and operations”.

Buchanan volunteer firefighters get new management: Botetourt County

It will be interesting to see if Boyd and Botetourt County continue the clean up of their system beyond Buchanan or if they’ll allow the remaining convicted felons within their system to continue serving. Willie said it best when he said “It’s like letting a fox in the hen house”. What if Carter had been on a call when accused of and charged with rape? Was he “on duty” when he made those previous threats? If so, could Botetourt County be held liable?

How many more Billy Joe Carters can Botetourt County afford?

Well I think I have covered it pretty well. I better get back to FireCritic.com before my readers start thinking Willie and I are the same person

- The Fire Critic

Posted by The Fire Critic on November 9, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, videos • Tagged: Botetourt County, Botetourt County Emergency Services, brotherhood, Buchanan 4th of July Carnival, Buchanan 4th of July Parade, Buchanan Vol. Fire Chief Billy Joe Carter, Buchanan Volunteer Fire Department, Capt, Captain Willie Wines, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, convicted felons, Dave Statter, Fire Critic, firefighters, Harmony Rose, Ironfiremen, IronFiremen.com, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, police stand off, Porn Star, Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke.com, shoot out, Steven Patrick Prease, The Roanoke Times, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

South Dakota Part 3

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This is the 3rd installment from the Ironfiremen / FireCritic.com trip to South Dakota. You can catch up and follow the entire tour by going back to my original post HERE . You can also read about Rhett’s take on our trip by clicking HERE .

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book Click HERE and “Like”

Ok, so in my 2nd installment; I failed to mention our stop at the Onida VFD.

Once again, we found ourselves welcomed with open arms. There were actually members there awaiting our arrival.

I’m sure they quickly wondered what they had gotten themselves into because straight out of the rig, Rhett and I began asking if this was where they made “Ore-Ida” french fries / tater-tots…. LOL. Of course they knew we were just kidding and they seemed to enjoy the laugh.

We got an all-access tour of their house / rigs etc. and was once again impressed with what we found. One of the Brothers on hand, Matt Richmond; even knew who we were and presented us with a shirt. It’s always cool when we meet folks who follow our sites … I just never thought we’d find the one who follows Rhett’s ….LOL. All kidding aside, thanks to the Brothers and Sisters of the Onida VFD for all the hospitality!

So, when I left ya in my 2nd installment, we had arrived at the Grand Falls Casino and Resort in Larchwood, Iowa. WOW! In all our travels, this place is the nicest that Rhett and I have stayed yet. If you ever get the chance, spend a night or two there … I promise you’ll enjoy it.

Bob allowed us to sleep in a bit the next morning and didn’t load us up until about 9am.

Our first stop of the day would be at the Offices / shops of Spartan ERV.

Gary Lembke, who was our driver / chaperon is also a Rep. for Spartan and gave us the complete tour. Front office,to fab, paint, electrical, pump testing etc. It was an AWESOME facility.

As far as that goes, the rig we toured in was VERY NICE! I wish they would have allowed us to bring it home.

It had a ton of unique features on it designed especially to make it “firefighter friendly” and cost efficient.

We seen a lot of their equipment in service throughout South Dakota so they must be doing something right!

If you’re not familiar with Spartan ERV check out their web site by clicking HERE or you can find them on Face Book HERE . Spartan ERV was a MAJOR sponsor of our tour and the Benefit. Be sure to drop them a note thanking them for everything they did.

Afterwards, we also got to visit Gary’s house in Brandon where he serves as Assistant Chief.

He took in a run just before our visit.

It was an alarm at a local school with reports of smoke in the building. Gary was “first in” with the Chief’s Buggy and gave a great size up. Of course, Rhett and I had to bust his balls a little bit. The radio designation for Gary’s buggy is “Car 2″ but to us, it sounded like he was saying “cartoon” …LMAO… yea… we got some milage out of it.

Thankfully, it turned out to be a just burnt motor in the HVAC unit.

From there, it was on to Sioux Falls. These guys were wrapping up a celebration where Station #1 turned 100 years old.

The House is still in operation and believed to be one of only a few that age west of the Mississippi.

She was a grand ol gal. Retirees and widows of retirees had been stopping by all week leaving old pictures and memorabilia.

Here’s the thing … Im sure these guys were worn out by all the visitors throughout the week. Yet, when we arrived, it was like we were their first. Hose tower to bunk room, we received the grand tour.

Part of which was delivered by the first and ONLY “Master Firefighter” in Sioux Falls, Randy Wold.

Again, we were honored and humbled by the hospitality shown to us. It became evident early in our trip that the Brotherhood was alive and well in South Dakota. In Sioux Falls, just like all our other stops; it was exhibited through the Pride, Honor and Traditions held by the members and their Departments. Visit Sioux Falls on the web by clicking HERE .

From there, it was out to Sioux Falls Station #4 where Adam Frick was assigned for the day. Adam has been a huge help and contributor to the South Dakota Firefighters Benefit so Shane presented him with his very own, custom Phenix Leather Helmet. I think he’s still smiling!

From there, we made our way out to the Chancler VFD. Of course, we were running late but the Brothers of Chancler hung around anyway.

Actually, they did more than just hang around … they had a surprise waiting for us. These folks have a 1903 Waterous Pumper and they had her out on the front pool. Not only that, they had her set up to pump!

The Pump was originally purchased by Chancler and seen her last fire in 1951. Shes a 20 hp, single cylinder rated at 375 gpm.

Typically, they set her up by the cistern at the Station and laid line from it to where ever they needed to go in town. They still had the 2 original hose carts and the leather coats / helmets issued with the pumper. IT WAS AMAZING!

You could see the PRIDE and HONOR in the Brother’s faces as they showed the pump and shared their story and TRADITION…. it was awe inspiring!

I have seen some old pieces up close but now, we were about to see one run and PUMP.

I went straight into negotiation mode to see if there was a chance for Rhett and I to get on the nozzle. I was searching through my suitcase for pictures of my wife, digging for cash or anything of value to trade….LOL

They just grinned and nodded having known all along that this this entire setup was just for us and that we would indeed have the opportunity to take the “pipe”.

WHAT AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE!

I’d dare say that there are not many Brothers or Sisters around today that can say they have actually discharged water from a 1903 Waterous pump! The Brothers and Sisters of the Chancler VFD gave Rhett and I the opportunity of a lifetime!

I don’t know if I will ever be able to repay the HONOR these Brothers bestowed upon us!

It’s all we could do to sleep that night but we had to … the Benefit started the following day.

Like the entire trip, the Benefit was a HUGE success and it was due to the hard work and effort put in by Bob Gard. Everything he did … the calls, e-mails, trips. The time away from his family, the gas money out of his pocket … everything was done for the Brothers and Sisters of South Dakota. His actions were the true essence of BROTHERHOOD.

Bob’s work resulted in several folks supporting the event. Please take the time to visit and THANK each of these sponsors for their support … Spartan ERV, Ride Backwards,All About Travel, Franklin Silverado, Firehouse Brewery, Grand Falls Casino Resort, Allegiant Emergency Services, Phenix Fire Helmets, Danko Emergency Equipment, Sanford Health, Goeman Auction, Farm Country Trader Inc, Boltes Sanitation, Darley, MSA Cairns, ResQme, True North Gear, Mn8 Products, Black Helmet, FatIvan, Pelican,Wall Shields, and Black Jack Helmet Holder (Links can be found on FireCritic.com HERE )

Rhett and I left Roanoke, Va intending to speak about the Brotherhood and maybe even “infect” a few members along the way. In the end, we threw away our intended speech and spoke off the cuff and from the heart. It didn’t take us long to figure out that they didn’t need us to “take” the Brotherhood to South Dakota. They didn’t even need us to explain what it is …to us or anyone else for that matter. You see, THEY ALREADY HAD IT … the Brotherhood was alive, well and very strong in South Dakota! We seen it first hand, from Rapid City all the way to Sioux Falls; and we returned home the better for it!

Rhett has over 170 photos on the Fire Critic’s Face Book page. You can view them by clicking HERE

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on September 23, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 1903 Waterous Pumper, Antique fire trucks, Brandon VFD, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Historic Fire Stations, IronFiremen.com, Master Firefighter, Onida South Dakota, Onida VFD, Sioux Falls Fire Department, South Dakota Firefighters Benefit, Spartan ERV, Waterous Pumps, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Is simply “Remembering” enough?

3 comments

Face Book is loaded with the messages today. “Never Forget” … “I remember” … “Where were you” etc. Every post I see has something to do with the events that took place 11 years ago today.

Although these statements have merit, I’m not sure they carry the necessary weight.

“Never forget” …. HOW COULD YOU? How could any adult who was alive that day forget what happened? How COULD you forget the images? People jumping, citizens pouring out while firefighters rushed in. The impact of that 2nd plane. The towers crumbling like piles of ash.

“I remember” … I HOPE SO! Citizen or public servant, I hope you remember the sacrifices made. I hope you remember how vulnerable we were and still are as a nation and who stepped up to the “front lines” as we were under attack. I hope you remember what they did to us that day …. what they took from us…. and those they murdered.

“Where were you?” … GLUED TO THE TV … that’s where you were unless you were on scene or responding in to either of the 3 sites. Where ever you were, hopefully; your mind, thoughts and spirits were in Pa, Washington DC and NYC. I know mine were. I’ll tell ya where you were …. In the same place we all were. In a state of disbelief and confusion. Scared, mad and searching for answers. I know EXACTLY where you were because like so many others, I was standing there beside you!

I’m not sure how to express or say what I’m feeling tonight. I’ve been thinking about it all day. I don’t want the words to become “catch phrases”. Something “cool” to say but without meaning or purpose. “Never Forget” should be way more than a slogan on a tee shirt. Saying it is NOT enough. Remembering is not either. Not just once a year when September 11th rolls around.

I met Lee Ielpi almost a year ago now, back in October of 2011. He is the strongest man I’ve ever met. He’s retired from FDNY’s elite Rescue 2 in Brooklyn. His youngest son (Brendan) is on the job today and currently assigned to that same company. His eldest son, Jonathan; was murdered in the attacks of 9/11. Jonathan was also on the job and assigned to Squad 288 in Queens. They lost 19 members that day … more than any other unit in the FDNY.

Lee now runs the 9/11 Tribute Center. “9/11 Tribute Center offers visitors to the World Trade Center site a place where they can connect with people from the September 11th community. Through walking tours, exhibits and programs, the 9/11 Tribute Center offers “Person to Person History,” linking visitors who want to understand and appreciate these historic events with those who experienced them”.

Lee gave Zach Green and I a personal tour of the center. I posted about it HERE . In that post, speaking of Lee and ground zero; I said “he hasn’t left yet”. I feel the same way about me and the Center. A part of me remains there.

You see, one of the exhibits is a set of turn out gear. Not just any gear mind you … Jonathan Ielpi’s gear. It’s like he’s standing right there and Lee has to walk by it every day. What do you think “never forget” means to this man? His son’s turnout coat and helmet! He walks by it everyday to share the story with us. To educate us and the generations to come.

THAT Brothers and Sisters is the meaning of NEVER FORGETTING. I guarantee you that Lee Ielpi REMEMBERS and he knows EXACTLY where he was not just that day but for months following … he was on that pile searching for his son!

Not as Lee does, but I too remember EVERY DAY. I have mentioned (and shown you) here on the site how I have photos of the fallen hanging near my bed. I see their faces every morning as I wake up.

I carry photos from our 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs in my turnout gear. They are part of my daily / morning check and remind me of the sacrifices made by others as well as of the one I may one day be called to make.

I’ve made the climbs. I even climbed in the shadows of the new Freedom Tower with Rhett and the founding members of the Stair Climb Committee.

I assist the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation anyway I can.

I support and work on behalf of the National Firefighters Endowment.

I leave my family to travel and deliver motivation speeches. I teach classes, promote life saving technology and try to do my part in making a positive impact on the fire service.

It’s more than a t-shirt, helmet sticker or catchy slogan for me. I hope I don’t need any of that crap. I’d rather you know that I remember EVERYDAY and would hope you can tell that by my actions and not by the slogan on some shirt or hat that I’m wearing.

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on September 12, 2012 • Filed under: command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2001, 9/11, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Ladder 49, Lee Ielpi, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MN8 products, never forget, NFE, NFFF, Rescue 2, September 11, Squad 288, The 9/11 Tribute Center, where were you, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, World Trade Center

How to “shock” a porn star

2 comments

Apparently, all you need to do is give her an application to the Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department.

You may remember back in June when we broke the story about, an ex-porn star volunteering at the Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad. Read that post HERE .

It caused quite a stink in and around the Roanoke Valley and you heard it first right here on these pages. Although they failed to link to or even mention Ironfiremen.com, the Huffington Post even picked up on the story! Read their coverage HERE .

Well, as big as a “shock” as the Harmony Rose story was; now the Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department has “one upped” the Rescue Squad and delivered an even bigger shock…. yea get ready for it …. ”the shocker”

Since my days as a Melrose Misfit, the boys have been telling me about things such as “the Shocker”, “the Rocker” and even “the Show Stopper”.

With the help of a freaky fireman down at #5, they’ve even tried to educate me on terms such as the “The Bat Wing, “The Eyeball” “The Goat” and many other terms.

I’m still not real sure what they were talking about but the one thing I do know is that there are several members of the Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department that are VERY LUCKY to be alive.

On Thursday, September 6, 2012, the Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department was conducting some training on Commonwealth Drive in South Roanoke County. The on duty crew utilized both a Wagon and Ladder Truck for their training evolution (equipment and members from the Cave Spring Rescue Squad were also in attendance).

It is still uncertain what the objective of the training evolution was but it is certainly clear that it didn’t end as planned.

The Wagon was apparently connected to a hydrant and supplying water to an elevated master stream from the Ladder truck. It remains unclear at this time whether or not the Ladder was flowing at the time of the incident.

At some point in the evolution, the ladder either came in contact with or became close enough to a high voltage power line to cause the equipment to become energized. The result was devastating, yet amazing in that nobody was injured or killed . The incident could also become very costly to Roanoke County and their fleet of fire apparatus.

The damage was significant. It is believed that both pieces of equipment could be a total loss. That could add up to somewhere around $1.5 million dollars of damage. The Ladder was a 2000 Pierce while the Wagon was a brand new 2012 model ( Story and photos HERE ). It’s believed that the County’s insurance will access the damages later this week.

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It’s been reported that the jolt even blew out every tire on both trucks. That’s 16 tires in total! Rumors are of the electrical systems being blown out of their panels and the inability to turn systems on and/or off following the charge. Members on scene (or having witnessed the aftermath) report an obvious path of current down the ladder and through the out-riggers.

Due to the hydrant flowing, there was water on the ground, reaching to and beyond the Wagon and surrounding area which could have easily allowed for the flow of current from one piece to the other.

At least one member was atop the turntable at the time of the incident but it remains unclear where the remaining members were located at the time of the incident (reports are of up to 12 members on scene). How they were not injured remains undetermined and under investigation. THEY WERE LUCKY!

At the least, this incident is a “Close Call” or “Near Miss”. Chief Goldfeder even ran it on Firefighter Close Calls (view that story / link HERE ). I have spoken with Officers of both the Cave Spring VFD and Roanoke County Fire / Rescue and they all say it’s a miracle that nobody was injured or killed.

There are some very basic lessons to be learned from this incident and quite honestly, I’m shocked that neither party has been eager to share them with the Fire Service as a whole. As embarrassing as it may be, at least; others can learn from whatever mistakes were made.

I’ve asked for pictures of the damage just so you all can see how serious this incident actually was. I’ve been told that they either don’t exist or that I can’t have them (depending on who I talk to). Our own local news reporters couldn’t even get a shot of the carnage.

Apparently, the trucks are now in a secure, remote location with no access from the public or press.

I wonder what they’re hiding?

Are the damages worse than previously reported?

I’ve talked to my contacts. I’ve told them … get out in front of the issues. Show what you have and tell what you can. ..”this” is what we know, “here’s ” what it looks like and the rest is being investigated…. we will share more as it becomes available. People are asking and we want and DESERVE an answer ( I am a Roanoke County tax payer).

Dave Statter will tell you that this is the correct way to handle such a situation. Rhett, Dave and I even offer classes on this exact subject but apparently, those closest to us are turning a deaf ear. That’s what upsets me the most. Both Roanoke County Fire/Rescue and the Cave Spring VFD are first class organizations. I expect so much more from both of them.

Again, I’ll say it’s like they’re hiding something. It’s just like all the incidents happening in a nearby City.

Rumors are ABUNDANT! We are hearing of a member having either resigned or haven been fired, a Captain on or off of administrative leave, inappropriate text messages, pornography, a DUI, revoked licenses, a picture of a moose with 2 assholes and even that there is no such thing as the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus! WTF? I wish I could elaborate more but apparently, a “gag order” has been issued and nobody can tell me exactly what it is that I’m not supposed to talk about.

My point here is this. Without FACT … the “rumor mill” grows. Even IF an incident is under investigation and all details are not yet known, put out what you know, and where you’re going with it. Keep your members, the public and press informed UP FRONT and it will save you a lot of work and explaining on the back side.

When the photos and “full story” of the Cave Spring incident are worthy of our attention, I will share them here on Ironfiremen.com. Until then, feel free to use the comment section to voice your opinion, concerns or point of view … I look forward to hearing them. Don’t forget to follow and “Like” us on Face Book by using the link above.

ALWAYS CHECK FOR OVERHEAD OBSTRUCTIONS …. stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on September 10, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Cave Spring Volunteer Fire Department, Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Dave Statter, Fire Apparatus, Fire Critic, firefighter close calls, firefighter near miss, firefighter pics, firefighters, Harmony Rose, IronFiremen.com, Ladder Truck, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Porn Star, Roanoke County Fire / Rescue, Statter 911, training, training accidents, Wagon, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Some sad news, a little more emotion and a day at Lucky #13 with The Fire Critic, Captain Wines and Rookie Randy

6 comments

My last post, “The Calls you just can’t shake“; has drawn a lot of attention and several comments / e-mails.

First, allow me to say THANK YOU for your concern. With that said, also allow me to assure you that I am doing fine. I realize that the post was personal and very emotional but that’s who and how I am.

You can’t be 100% committed to this profession and not become emotionally attached. My Pride in and for the job sometimes allows my emotion to spill over to my writing. I allow it to happen in hopes that the honesty in my stories may have a positive impact on another Brother or Sister out there somewhere. We all share the same emotions /stories, but not everyone is fortunate enough to have an outlet to share them as I do here at Ironfiremen.com. I hope we’re making a difference.

Having said all that, I have some bad news to pass along. Rhett and I learned this morning of the passing of our good friend and Brother W.D. Patterson.

His death came as a HUGE shock to us as I’m sure it did to many others.

Rhett and I have remembered W.D and discussed his passing all day but it still hasn’t “sunk in”.

I’m sure many of you are in the same position. When I said above that “not everyone is fortunate enough to have an outlet to share them (re: emotions / stories)” that’s not entirely true. You see, we have each other … The Brotherhood!

Don’t be afraid to go to your Brothers and Sisters … your Company Officers, your peers when something is bothering you. When little “Rookie Randy” was assigned here I explained to him that as his Captain, I’m now his priest, his banker, his marriage counselor, his therapist or whatever he needs. I have built and gained a trust with him that hopefully assures him that he has somewhere to go …. someone to talk to. As Brothers and Sisters, we all have that. We are never alone because we have each other!

For me, it’s like calling an “Emotional Mayday” and like the fire ground Mayday, calling it should be second nature.

Read a previous post “Time For a MAYDAY” by clicking HERE

Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of W.D. He will be missed by many. Should you need a shoulder to lean on or an ear to talk to, please remember that Rhett and I are always available. I will pass along the details of arrangements as soon as they become available.

Ok, on to a lighter subject. Obviously, from my comments above; Rhett is working here at Lucky #13 again today.

I can’t believe we keep ending up together or that the “powers to be” even allow it.

Rhett is paying back some time he owes to a C-shift Brother over at Station #14. As it turned out, I was a man short and needed a driver. Station #14 had a “full boat” so it was up to them to send a man over …. they sent Rhett instead! LOL

Yea… Rhett is driving, I’m in the seat and good ol Rookie Randy aka “Rocket Randy Armbrister from Max Meadows Virginia” is in the bucket of Engine Company #13!

Now don’t worry your self Dave Statter …. me and “Rookie Randy” will be just fine.

I fitted the Engine with some special equipment so that Rhett could easily see over the dash and get us safely to our destinations.

Yea … not one, not two but THREE phone books! LMAO

The poor little fella pouted all day. I’m not sure if it was because he thought I was fretting him or because the phone books actually worked.

All kidding aside, Rhett fits very well into our team. He’s both a great driver and pump operator. He hasn’t had to display his pump skills as of yet but we have logged several runs today.

For us, keeping busy helps the day pass. We started off with an Incident Management / High Rise class this morning. It was an excellent class. Randy even got to run a scenario … it was his first and he did really well.

We got out at lunch time and have been pretty much on the road since.

We did manage to make it back to the station a few times so Randy got to put in some time on his map books.

Well, some may call it “map work” but it’s more like arts and crafts or coloring time if you ask me ….LOL

I’ll share more of his work in a future post because he’s doing an excellent job with it. He is actually color coding his streets and index to make them easier to locate should he need to go “to the book”.

Of course I’m old school and expect him to know his territory and not be dependent on the map but I also know how easy it is to draw a blank or simply forget a street from time to time.

Later, we even convinced Rhett to cook!

Flat Iron Steak, medium rare, seasoned just right and prepared on the grill! Becky is one lucky gal. I hear he can even run a vacuum cleaner and that he does laundry and windows…. LOL

I can’t wait to get him out to South Dakota next week and show him off to Bob Gard and all the Brothers and Sisters out there!

THAT’S RIGHT … next week, Rhett and I will be touring across South Dakota in a Spartan ERV Fire Truck!

We’re headed out for the South Dakota Firefighter’s Benefit and we have plenty of stops scheduled along the way. We arrive in Rapid City and will end up in Sioux Falls for the event on September 15th.

If you are anywhere near South Dakota, you will not want to miss this event! Also be sure to hit us up and we will do our best to meet up sometime before and along the way …. it’s going to be a BLAST!

The Benefit will support both the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and the National Firefighters Endowment .

If you’re not in the area or will be unable to make it out for the festivities, don’t panic. You can still support the event by making a donation. For each $10 donation, you’ll receive a chance to win a custom Phenix 9/11 Memorial Helmet !

Click HERE for your chance to win !

Ok, I’m going to wrap it up here for tonight. I’ll check back in tomorrow some time. Until I get back …. stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on September 5, 2012 • Filed under: command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, emotional health, FDIC, FDIC 2012, Fire Critic, firefighter health and wellness, firefighter pics, firefighters, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, MAYDAY, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, National Firefighters Endowment, NFE, NFFF, Randy Armbrister, Roanoke Fire/EMS, South Dakota Firefighter Benefit, Spartan ERV, Statter 911, Va Fire News, W.D.Patterson, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Roanoke Working! 5 civilians displaced, 4 firefighters injured

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Roanoke’s Bravest faced yet another heavily involved house fire at approx 1am Wednesday morning (8/15/2012).

The Brothers and Sisters of A-shift arrived at 832 Staunton Ave NW to find heavy smoke and fire conditions from side “Charlie” (the rear of the structure).

The residents were home at the time of the fire but were able escape on their own.

Reports are that there were smoke detectors in the home but they were not working.

The were 5 residents who were displaced by the fire and will either stay with friends / family or be assisted by the Red Cross. The home sustained heavy damages estimated in the $80,000 range.

Ironfiremen.com on Face Book. Click HERE then “Like”

There were also 4 firefighters injured in the fire.

All of the injuries were described as “minor” with 3 having been treated at the scene while the fourth was transported to a local hospital.

The photo to the left is the right ear of Drew Abel, one of the firefighters operating on the 2nd floor.

Drew was on the nozzle and making a knock on the fire when he received steam burns to both his ears (the right more severe). He was wearing all of his PPE (including hood and helmet ear flaps) and wearing it correctly.

Roanoke carries both smooth bore and fog nozzles on their attack lines but I am unaware of which Drew deployed. Roanoke has a long history and reputation of aggressive, interior fire attacks. Most often, Roanoke’s firefighters will make their way to the seat of the fire before applying water. This tactic allows us to keep a large percentage of our fires contained to the room of origin. The “trick” to this tactic is that ventilation MUST be coordinated with the attack. If not, and the fog nozzle was deployed; these types of injuries can occur. Heres some local news coverage …

More from Roanoke.com

WDBJ 7

I have spoken with Drew and he is doing well. He will be placed on “light duty” for the next week or so until he is healed and should make a full recovery. GET WELL SOON Brother!

Rhett is still in the middle of his “16 Days of Swag” over on Fire Critic.com. In appreciation for reaching 5,000 Face Book “Likes”, he’s giving away a bunch of free ~~stuff~~ ”SWAG”. You can enter every day … check it out and sign up below …

Click HERE for the Fire Critic Give Away

Speaking of “Give A Ways” … The National Firefighters Endowment is also doing a give – a – way but in a BIG WAY! They are giving away a new truck!

Vote & Enter to win your choice of a new Ford or Chevy truck. 50% of your donation will go directly to support the fire department you vote for. The department with the most votes will win an additional $5,000 equipment grant from National Firefighters Endowment.

Learn more, enter and vote by clicking HERE

Bob Gard also has a chance for ya to win something REALLY COOL … a CUSTOM leather, Phenix 9/11 Remembrance Helmet !

Every $10 donation gives you a chance to win this helmet. The donations go to the South Dakota Firefighter’s Benefit which will be held in Sioux Fall, South Dakota on September 15th.

The Benefit is NON-PROFIT with all proceeds being split between the National Fallen Firefighter’s Foundation and the National Firefighter’s Endowment.

Learn more, get you chance for the helmet and register for the Benefit at the link below … pay special attention to who the SPEAKERS will be.

South Dakota Firefighters Benefit click HERE .

I also need to tell ya about the Southwest Virginia Fire Officer’s Association’s 5th Annual Fire Officers Seminar.

The Seminar will be held in Roanoke, Va on September 20th & 21st.

The speaker / presenter will be Christopher J. Naum!

Rhett and I consider Chris to be a good friend, a Brother and a true Fire Service Leader. This will be our best Officers Seminar yet!

You may know some of his web sites ..The Company Officer, Command Safety, Buildings on Fire.

His topic will be “Five Star Command; Redefining Fire Officer Training for Operational Safety & Excellence”.

If you are a current or aspiring Fire Officer and live within 100 miles of Roanoke, YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS SEMINAR!

Learn more and Register NOW. Click HERE

Don’t forget to “like” and “Share” this post on Face Book. I’ll check back in with ya in a day or so. The Buckaroo and I have school orientation tomorrow evening so it may be Friday before I get back. Yea … he starts pre-K next Tuesday … this ought to be interesting! LOL

Until I do get back, you Brothers and Sisters stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on August 15, 2012 • Filed under: command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, fires, news, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: brotherhood, Buckaroo, building fire, Buildings on Fire.com, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chris Naum, command safety, Dave Statter, Fire Critic, firefighter burns, firefighter injuries, firefighter pics, Firefighter PPE, firefighters, house fire, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, National Firefighters Endowment, NFFF, Phenix Helmets, PPE, Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke Fire/EMS, South Dakota Firefighters Benefit, Southwest Virginia Fire Officer's Association's 5th Annual Fire Officers Seminar, Spartan ERV, TheCompanyOfficer.com, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire

3 alarm fire in Roanoke, Va

2 comments

Roanoke’s Bravest responded to what would become a 3rd alarm fire on 10th Street NW last night. It’s the 2nd multi-alarm fire within the city limits in as many months…. read

A vision of calm in the midst of hell

Last night’s fire would empty every firehouse in the city causing the Department to “call back” members for duty. Typically, those members “called back” will staff “reserve” apparatus and place stations back in service.

Roanoke Fire/EMS operates with 11 Engine Companies, 4 Ladders, 8 Medic Units, 2 Battalion Chiefs and an EMS Supervisor which would have put 64 members on scene.

Local news sources report that over 200 residents were without power at one point and the blaze caused backups and delays on Interstate 581.

Two firefighters received what is being described as “minor” injuries while others were treated for heat related injuries.

Find more links with photos and video below ….

RoanokeFirefighters.com

WSLS.com

Roanoke.com

WDBJ7.com

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book .. click HERE

More details to follow ….

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 22, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: 3 alarm fire, all hands fire, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, elevated master streams, fire, Fire Critic, fire trucks, fire video, firefighter pics, firefighters, firemen, fully involved fire, house fire, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, master streams, Mike Overacker, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Roanoke firefighters, Roanoke Times, video, WDBJ 7, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire, WSLS

Working Fire, Extrication and Firehouse Expo!

1 comment

We caught a small job at shift break this morning… we were coming on, B-Shift was going off.

It’s a hell of a way to start the day.

Engine 5 was first due with us on their heels.

There wasn’t a lot of work and “little miss Carlie” made quick work of what there was anyway. It’s hard to believe she’s been on the job a couple years now … I can remember her first fire 0r the first time she was on the nozzle anyway..

See that post by clicking HERE .

I’m sure Bugg did the work on the picture above … he’s done some awesome mixed black / white and color shots.

This pic to the left is one of my favorites ….

That’s the ole “War Wagon” from our “Melrose Misfit” days back at Station #9.

She brings back a lot of good memories plus it’s a very cool shot!

I also like the one he did of the new Station #5 shown below…. I’m gonna have to get him to teach me how he does that.

Cool pics huh? One other neat thing goes back to the first picture (top right). Because the fire was at shift break, several of the members hadn’t had the time to change into their uniform yet. They just threw their gear on over their civi’s.

Did ya notice the shirt Wheezy has on? Apparently, I’m the only one on the planet who didn’t know what The Chive is. Apparently, it’s a web site that’s even more popular than that Fire Cricket site. A lot of cool pics, videos etc. They even have a section dedicated to firefighters … check it out HERE .

So, like a started out saying … it’s been busy around here lately. Storms, fires, extrications etc…

The pic right is a MVC we caught last day.

We were first in with reports of “possible injury”…. ya think??

We arrived to find 3 vehicles involved and this Caddy with heavy damage.

We got an additional Engine, 2 Medics and Ladder #5 for extrication.

As usual, the boys did a great job and made quick work of the incident.

Don’t worry, we’re not hogging all the excitement …we’re actually going to take it on the road ….

Rhett (FireCritic.com) Zach Green (MN8-FoxFire) and I will be bringing a TON of excitement to Firehouse Expo in Baltimore this week!

Rhett and I will be wearing our custom made kilts from ALT Kilt and should be easy to spot in a crowd.

We shouldn’t be too hard to find anyway. Thursday evening at 3pm, you can find us at the Northern Virginia Fools Bash..

Details for FOOLS Bash HERE

We will also be on the floor of the exhibit hall in Booth #123 with MN8 FoxFire

Follow MN8 FoxFire on Face Book HERE

Be sure to stop by Booth #123 to say hello and get a personal demo of the FoxFire Products from Rhett or myself. Also hit us up on Face Book to see exactly where we are and what we’re doing … we’d love to meet up and grab a few beers.

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book HERE

We will get you more details as to our whereabouts over the next few days so be sure to keep checking in. Until I get back to ya … stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 15, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Alt Kilt, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Fire Critic, firefighter kilts, firefighter pics, firefighters, Firehouse Expo 2012, FOOLS, house fire, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Melrose misfits, MN8 FoxFire, MN8 products, Northern Va Fools, Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke Fire/EMS, vehicle extrication, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire, Zach Green

And now, the HARD part begins…

3 comments

Yesterday, I was back to duty and my first order of the day (beyond PPE checks etc) was an extra detail of PAPER WORK!

I hate paper work but this was some I didn’t mind. Our favorite little “Rookie”, Rocket Randy Armbrister; from Max Meadows, Virginia is eligible to come off of probation.

Randy came ”in Company” back on July 10, 2011. See that post by clicking HERE .

Of course, it wasn’t long before I had to “pull the book” on him and get him back on the “straight and narrow” …. LMAO …see that post HERE .

It’s been a good year and I’ve been VERY pleased with Randy’s performance / progress.

He graduated with Honors from Recruit Class #14. A 16 week “Rookie School” where candidates receive State level training and certifications in classes such as Firefighter I & II, EMT-B, Haz-Mat Awareness, EVOC, MAYDAY, RIT and much, much more. It’s basically Firefighter “Boot Camp”.

Randy passed all requirements and graduated receiving the “Captain Chris Brown Character Award” It says a lot about how he handled himself during Recruit School.

As mentioned above, he was assigned to Engine Company #13-C on July 10, 2011 and most think that day (when the Rookies are assigned to company) is when you begin to “coast”….. NOT IN MY COMPANY!

For me, that’s when the recruits begin to learn the difference between “the book” and “the street”. This is the time where Captains and Lieutenants hone a young recruit into shape. It’s where and when they learn the “common sense” of firefighting. There are just so many “tricks” and “techniques” that we’ve learned over the years that just aren’t in the books…. this is our time to pass em on.

Plus, every Company / Department is different. We all have different response areas, different types of building construction, we need different hose loads, different strategies / tactics etc. This is the time that a Firefighter earns his stripes …. it’s when and where they learn to fight fire and become firefighters.

It was no different for Randy.

His first day was all about his SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus). If he didn’t know it inside and out … if he couldn’t operate with it on … if he couldn’t make a bottle last past the front door …. if he couldn’t recognize and correct a potential problem then he would be useless to me, the company and the Battalion.

That day, he did all his station duties wearing his SCBA.

He cleaned and swept. He mopped the floors and even mowed the grass while wearing his SCBA.

I posted about it HERE and took a lot of grief over it.

TRUST ME … I had his best interest in mind. I was not “busting balls” or picking on him. I needed to make sure he was comfortable in his SCBA. I needed to know that he could work in a stressful situation and remember to control his breathing …. trust me AGAIN … HE WAS STRESSED.

Much to my surprise (at the time), Randy did VERY well. I was impressed.

we moved on to Calling the MAYDAY …. Self Rescue … Searching …. Stretching the Line …. Fire Attack … Hydrant work etc.

In the past year, we’ve covered it all and in DETAIL.

I hope Randy has realized how lucky he has been to have had a Senior Firefighter like Todd “Boots” Harris and a Lieutenant like George Perdue to “show him the ropes”.

I think he knows and I’m sure he’s learned a thing or two along the way over the past year. As a Captain, it’s been exciting to watch …. a huge source of PRIDE in knowing that we are passing along something that we LOVE to do.

Again I’ll say that Randy has done VERY well. It’s obvious that this is the job he wants and he’s willing to work for it.

With all that, and a full year behind us; it was time for me to make a decision. Time for me to put MY name on the line.

Time for me to write a letter … one way or the other.

That picture to the left is the letter I wrote. Click on it and enlarge it so you can read it …. I think it’s pretty much self explanitory.

HE MADE IT!

I’m PROUD of Randy!

I’m PROUD of our Training Division, of my Company and of our Department for setting our standards so high. Randy will make a good fireman.

I hope that one day he will remember everything those who have contributed to his development gave … I’m sure he will … it’s in his character. More than that, I hope that one day, he too will pass along all that he’s learned to another young recruit. He should never quit learning.

Here’s the thing …. I’ve submitted the letter. If the Chief accepts it and signs off, the easy part is done …. NOW is when the HARD PART begins.

It’s EASY to get this far …. hundreds if not thousands of members get this far. The “hard” part is “keeping fire in your life”…. staying “Battle Ready”.

Keeping the desire to learn. To train, to stay healthy, physically fit and in the shape to do the job required of you. To keep motivated. To keep the discipline to push yourself to the “next level”. To maintain a positive attitude.

My good friend and Brother Firefighter Zach Green of MN8-FoxFire once gave me a gift. It was a framed quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson and it says ” Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path & leave a trail”

That’s a pretty awesome quote and I think it fits perfectly. Our “Rookies” are the next generation firefighters. We have to give and show them what we know and have learned then hope they carry on the tradition…. I’m excited to see where they take us!

Congratulations to Randy Armbrister and all the other members of Recruit Class #14 who have made it off probation … make us PROUD Brothers!

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 14, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, Training, training-development, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighter training, firefighters, IAFF, letters of recommendation, Probationary Firefighters, Randy Armbrister, Recruit Class 14, Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Rookie School, SCBA, Scott Air Packs, Scott AP50, Statter 911, Todd Harris, training, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Zach Green

Mixed emotions

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I’ve attended two funerals within a week ( a Funeral and a Memorial service).

First, Rhett (FireCritic.com) and I attended the “visitation” or Family night for fallen Boones Mill VFD Lt. John Echternach Jr.

Lt Echternach became the 46th LODD (Line Of Duty Death) in the United States for 2012, he was the 3rd in Virginia for the year.

He was killed June 29, 2012 while assisting a motorist during the severe storm (derecho) that tore through SW Virginia. You can read more and find various links by clicking HERE .

What I didn’t write about in that post was the survivors. By that, obviously; I mean his family but that also includes his Fire Department Family.

The Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department has had a very rough road here of late.

Just in the last 30 days, they have responded to multiple traumatic fatalities and then had to respond to one of their own. Without the loss of their Brother, these type of incidents alone can be difficult to see / handle. When you add a LODD, it can become unbearable…. that was my first concern.

In the link above, I wrote that Lt. Echternach’s death hit “close to home”. One of the reasons I didn’t mention was / is my relationship with the Boones Mill Chief, Riley Peters.

Riley is a retired Captain from the job (Roanoke fire/EMS October 2009 ), he was my Dad’s Captain for a while. Our relationship off the job (if we ever really are “off” the job) was closer than while on. We shared a business, a hobby and spent most every weekend together.

I call him by his old firehouse nick name, “Big Joe” and consider him family. I mentioned his retirement in an old post from the “Melrose Misfit” days Here.

While on the job in the City, Big Joe tested for Battalion Chief year after year. He always tested well but, for whatever reason; never received the promotion. That was a shame.

Following his retirement, he joined the Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department and soon made Chief, not Battalion but Chief of Department. Obviously, the position carries a lot of responsibility.

Some guys snickered saying “ole Riley finally made Chief” … well, the jokes on them because Riley has made a GREAT Chief for Boones Mill ( I wish he would have gotten the same chance in the City … he would have been great to work for).

When I first learned of Lt. Echternach’s death, I called “Big Joe” to check on his and the mental state of his members. He, along with the Franklin County Department of Public Safety; had already called in a CISD (Critical Incident Stress Debriefing) team for a debriefing and had others planned.

These types of meetings / sessions are designed specifically for the mental health (well being) of the members. Big Joe was on top of it. It’s been apparent to me ( as I expected) that Chief Peters’ main focus has been on the family of Lt Echternach, and the members of BMVFD (as it should have been). What has worried me is who’s been looking after “Big Joe”?

I can’t imagine the stress. Everything he is having / had to deal with and no time to grieve from himself. It’s been all about the Family, all about the members (again, as it should be), gotta get this done, coordinate this, notify this agency, file this report etc. A lot of which I’m sure he’s never had to do before.

I’ve talked to him several times since the Funeral and he seems to be doing fine. I actually called him just this morning. He says that there are several others (beyond me) checking in on him and he is very appreciative.

Big Joe is a Fireman’s Fireman and it’s difficult to read his emotions (even for me). I may have to just go kidnap him and get off somewhere with a couple of cold beers. My emotions are mixed in that I’m concerned that he hasn’t had the time or chance to grieve .. to vent. Beyond that, I’m also proud … VERY PROUD of the job he’s done and how he’s handled these difficult times.

To me, it shows the professionalism, of not just Big Joe (Chief Peters) but also of the Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department and the Franklin County Department of Public Safety. It’s Pride, Honor, Tradition, Respect and Brotherhood at it’s finest … WELL DONE BROTHERS….. WELL DONE!

The 2nd funeral I attended was that of my 2nd cousin, US Army 1st Lt Chase Prasnicki.

Chase was killed in Afghanistan less than 4 days after he arrived. He was 24 years old and had been married for only 7 months.

John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”

Chase was a HERO in all aspects of the word. Read “Another Funeral” HERE.

More coverage of the funeral from local News HERE and HERE .

Again, I found myself saddened, but also honored. It’s difficult for me to explain but I’ll try to give ya a sense of it.

You see, I really didn’t know Chase, he was 20 years my junior. My family owned a piece of land with a cabin on Panther Mountain. That’s where a lot of the boys (and some of the girls) of the family learned our “life lessons” as kids / young adults. I have some GREAT memories of that cabin and my time on the mountain. I’m sure all my cousins do as well …. we were ALL there at one time or another.

Chase was just born when I moved from Rockbridge County to Roanoke. By the time he was running the mountain, I was pulling 24′s in the Fire Department. That said, I knew his mother and grandparents well … we were family.

Like most of you, I have been saddened at the news of our soldiers killed in action….not just Chase, all of them. Saddened but with a sense of understanding. They were in the Armed Forces … they expected to go to battle and hopefully understood the sacrifices they may have been asked to give. Signing up was their 1st act of bravery. That said, I’ve often asked myself “why” and hope that their deaths were not in vein but the honest answer is that I’m really not sure.

The Funeral was humbling. I wore my Class A’s and stood shoulder to shoulder with some real HEROS. Every soldier there had a chest full of medals in honor of their sacrifice and service. The Church was packed and many folks lined the sidewalks to hear the service over a loud speaker.

I ended up taking the Buckaroo with me. We stood along the aisle so that others could sit. He was VERY well behaved. It was almost as if he knew we were at something “special”. We stood between a “Full Bird” Colonel and a Captain. They kept a keen eye on my little fella as he stood in front of me, holding my hat and paying attention to the happenings. It was a long service and a difficult stand. I’m proud to endured that along side so many great men.

The procession to the grave side was even more humbling. I’m not sure if it was because I was “back home” (in the country) or if it was because of Chase’s service but the vehicles traveling in the other direction even pulled over to the right and stopped as we passed (even on the 4 lane highway, Route 11). We just don’t see that here in the City and I had forgotten the “respect” often shown in smaller towns. People were standing in their yards or place of business along the way, holding signs or the American flag …. children and adults …. it brought tears to my eyes to see this type of patriotism, honor and respect.

Back at home, I received several e-mails and comments offering condolences etc and I’d like to take a moment to say THANK YOU.

Two e-mails in particular touched me deeply and I’d like to share parts of those with you.

The first one came from a good friend and Brother Bill Carey (Backstep Firefighter , Fire/EMS Blogs, Firefighter Nation etc). Here’s what he shared with me in part ….

“Immediately after reading that the services are to be held in Lexington I recalled this quote from General Thomas Jackson. I treasure no other historical figure of our nation’s military more that Jackson; his book or maxims is a true value to everyone, especially those in leadership positions. When asked by Captain Imboden abut fearing his own death, Jackson replied

“Captain, my religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me. Captain, that is the way all men should live, and then all would be equally brave.” “

Bill continued to say …

“To try and speak this to younger generations, especially those in the fire service, it is futile at best. Jackson did not mean to live his life in a fatalistic, laissez-faire attitude, but that he had a religious conviction, deeply grounded, unwavering, that applied not to “the cause” or the military, but to his own personal life. Whether it is old age and blissful retirement or just shy of four days in Afghanistan, may we all have the resolve to ready, to live equally brave, walk safe and live with conviction in what we set out to do, much like your second cousin.”

WOW! and that’s not even the entire e-mail. I can’t THANK Bill enough for his words and hope he doesn’t mind my sharing them with you … they were so powerful and touched me so that I couldn’t help but share them.

Another Brother and friend, Matt VanGiesen also took the time to send me a note. He said (in part) …

“I write this with tears welling in my eyes, for I truly understand the painful journey your family is on. My tears, born of sorrow, also flow with great pride as our country buries another HERO. It is because of great men like Chase that my family and I lie safely in our beds at night… I know that my words can not heal the pain, but offer them I must.”

Matt included THIS LINK to a post he published on his blog “Just a Vollie“

As always, THANKS for following. If you’d like, you can follow the site on Face Book by CLICKING HERE.

I’m back on duty tomorrow and have a post already lined up … you won’t want to miss this one! Until I get back to ya…. stay SAFE and in House.

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 12, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2012 LODD, Backstep Firefighter, Bill Carey, Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department, brotherhood, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, famous quotes, Fire Critic, firefighter funerals, firefighter pics, firefighters, First Lieutenant Chase Prasnicki, Franklin County Department of Public Safety, funeral, IronFiremen.com, KIA, LODD, Lt. John Echternach J, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Riley Peters, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Statter 911, Stonewall Jackson, US Army 1st Lt Chase Prasnicki, Willie Wines Jr, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Another funeral

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John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”

I’ll be attending yet another funeral tomorrow. I’m not looking forward to it. I don’t do well at them.

This one will be a little more difficult … it’s family.

My 2nd cousin, First Lieutenant Chase Prasnicki; was killed in Afghanistan by an IED on June 27th. He was a West Point Graduate and ”in Country” less than 4 days.

He’s now at home in many ways and will be laid to rest in Rockbridge County tomorrow.

The service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Lexington, Va. at 11am. It’s the Church I grew up in as a child. His burial will follow in Buena Vista at Greenhill Cemetery… Details of arrangements HERE .

I grieve for the loss of a family member, a soldier and such a young man, Chase was 24 years old. It angers me as the death toll rises in Iraq and Afghanistan ( Faces of the Fallen ). It also fills me with PRIDE that we still have men and women willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow man.

Our family has a deep and rich history of Military Service (as well as Public Service).

Although I did not make it into the Marine Corp, I will wear my Fire Department Class A uniform tomorrow.

I’ll wear it for several reasons.

To me, much like the Marine Corp Dress Blues; our uniform symbolizes Honor, Pride, Tradition and Respect. I’ll wear it in HONOR of Chase, those who have fallen before him and those who may fall after.

I also think our uniform reminds folks that we too know loss and sacrifice. We too are on the “front lines”. It all started with the murderous attacks of September 11, 2001 and we too were there to answer the call. I think a Fire Department uniform will fit just fine with all of the military ones that I’m sure will be present.

I hope you feel the same when wearing your Class A’s. I hope that every time you put it on, you remember our 343, every LODD and all of our soldiers who have and continue to fight and die for our freedoms.

More about Chase HERE HERE and HERE .

Stay Safe and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 9, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, in-the-line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Captain Wines, Class A's, Dress Blues, Fire Critic, Fire Department Uniforms, firefighters, First Lieutenant Chase Prasnicki, funeral services, KIA, LODD, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke Fire/EMS, USMC, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Line Of Duty Death (LODD) #46, 3rd in Va.

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According to the US Fire Administration’s web site, Lt. John Echternach Jr. of the Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department became the 46th LODD in the United States and the 3rd from Virginia in 2012 (complete list HERE).

His memorial service was held yesterday in Boones Mill.

Lt. Echternach was responding to a report of a house fire on the evening of June 29th as a severe storm (derecho) tore through SW Virginia. While enroute to the station, John came across a vehicle, in the middle of the road; that a tree had fallen across. He stopped to assist the occupants when a second tree fell and struck him. He was pronounced dead at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

This is another LODD that hit very “close to home” for me and several members of Roanoke Fire/EMS.

Many of our Fire Service careers started in Franklin County as volunteers. I started as a member of the Burnt Chimney VFD while my Lt. (George Perdue) served many years in Scruggs.

Several of our members also hold the honorable distinction of being “Life Members” of the Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department. Just here at Lucky #13, on A-Shift; Captain Lynn Flora and Lt. Barry Ferguson served with Boones Mill.

They actually took our rig (along with Lt. Steve Jordan, another past member of Boones Mill) and covered the Boones Mill Station during the Memorial Service yesterday.

The picture above (left) is our Honor Guard folding the flag during the service. The honor Guard is made up of members from Roanoke Fire/EMS, Salem Fire/EMS and Roanoke County Fire / Rescue. These Brothers and Sisters ALWAYS do a fantastic job and I’ve heard nothing but good things from yesterdays service.

I would list their names, but they have none. They wear no Rank designation nor name plates. One of the Captains explained to me that when the Honor Guard is working “we don’t have a name, we don’t have a face .. we don’t exist as individuals. It’s not about us, it’s about that family and seeing that they are taken care of”.

WOW! I’d also like to share with you a tribute that Steve Mills wrote in honor of Lt. Echternach. I believe Steve has served with the Boones Mill VFD for at least 30 years now. His tribute was published in our local paper, The Roanoke Times.

“Today we bid farewell to a hero, Lt. John L. Echternach Jr., of the Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department.

John never piloted a disabled jetliner to safe landing in the Hudson River, nor did he perform a daring rescue of a wounded comrade while under enemy fire.

There will be no books written about John, and his life’s story won’t be gloried on the silver screen.

Slight in stature, John didn’t look like a hero, and his quiet and unassuming personality didn’t suggest that he was, either. But John Echternach personified the unsung hero who resides in all of us, yet all too seldom rises to the surface.”

Read the entire Tribute by clicking HERE .

Va Fire News

The Franklin News -Post

WDBJ 7

Boones Mill VFD on Face Book

Franklin County Department of Public Safety

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 8, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, firefighting-operations, in-the-line-of-duty, line-of-duty, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2012 LODD, Boones Mill Volunteer Fire Department, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, derecho, Engine Company 13, FEMA, Fire Critic, Fire Department Honor Guard, firefighter pics, firefighters, Franklin County Department of Public Safety, Honor Guard, house fire, Line of duty Death, Lt. John Echternach Jr, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Severe Storm, severe weather, US Fire Administration, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Camera tricks from The Fire Critic, a mixed bag including Roanoke working

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We’re back on duty for the middle day of our cycle. We returned from our 4 day break to work the 4th of July.

Our day was fairly quiet but the pace picked a little just after dark.

I was still “riding the car” as acting Battalion last day. That’s why the night was busy (I’m a black cloud).

I also had a ride a long with me for 1/2 the shift … and that’s why the day was quiet.

Nate Camfiord has lived in the area before, but has spent the last several years up in Northern Va. He’s looking to relocate back to our area and decided to look me and Rhett up while here.

I had never meet Nate before but we are “friends” on Face Book. He posts a lot of fire related pictures and they’ve always caught my attention…. he’s caught some GREAT shots. I gave him a tour of the City and our stations and he was able to snag a few shots along the way.

They’re not like “buff” pictures … Nate’s shots seem to “tell a story”. If you haven’t seen his work, check em out on his FB page by clicking HERE .

Follow Ironfiremen.com on Face Book..click HERE

My pictures are nowhere near the caliber of Nate’s but I did think this was a pretty neat shot.

I also have a CRAP camera.

Several years back, the Melrose Misfits bought me a Cannon Power shot. I LOVED it! That baby took a beating. I carried it in my gear, on the rig or where ever.

Finally, I she had all she could take a month or so back and it was replaced with Kodak something or another. I don’t like this one at all. From what I can tell, the Cannon is discontinued so I’m going to have to find a suitable replacement. If you have any suggestions …. send em my way.

So anyway, the picture was taken from atop Engine 5. As soon as Nate left the station from his ride a long, we caught this run for a kitchen fire…. LOL that’s always how it works.

I also found a video that was shot while we were working an extrication. Engine #13 responded for a hit and run. We arrive to find moderate damage and the front doors jammed. I established command and called in the boys from Ladder 5. They got all 4 doors and the roof making for GREAT patient access. Also on scene were Medics #5 and #4.

So, I’ve gotten a few comments / questions about The Fire Critic (Rhett Fleitz) and his lack of postings of late. Well, rest assured, my little buddy is alive and well.

He’s taken a little bit of “family time” (which is very contagious) and he’s been without power since the big storm last week.

Well, it’s been all that plus this “workout kick” he’s been on.

Yea … Rhett’s on a workout kick. He’s EAT UP with it actually.

Now, I don’t care what he does at the station but his new fascination is even affecting our personal lives.

On our last road trip, he was sipping on some kind of health shakes that his wife mixed up for him before we left… yea Statter … it was like putting bottles in the diaper bag before heading out.

THEN at the hotel, I get out of the shower to find this –>

Can you guess who packed which bottle??? LMAO … it’s almost embarrassing. I mean my little buddy on steroids … all JUICED up!

That stuff ain’t good for ya.

It’s already started to mess with his brain. This stuff has got him so screwed up that he went out and bought a used tire to “play with” at the Station.

He calls it his “toy” and says he spends all day out on the pool just flipping it around. Why didn’t he just grab a tin can out of their recycle bin and go out and kick that around?

That’s what I used to do as a kid and I turned out fine. AND .. I’m in good shape….. hell, I’m in my PRIME ..LOL

Well, I’ve done a little digging and think that Rhett my be using some of his old “camera tricks” on us … yep this photo may have been staged.

My investigation found that they actually have 2 “workout tires” at Station #3.

One for Big Dave Lucas and a “special” one for Rhett

Aint it cute Dave Statter???? And just his size too …LOL

Ahhhh … the things little Rhett can do with photo shop. I think he even doctored those arms in the pic above…

LOL … all kidding aside, Rhett has been working our very regular and it’s paying off. I wish I had his drive and dedication. He even managed to squeeze a post out about it… Read “A New Toy at the Firehouse”

In other news, Rookie Randy is home from his Honeymoon and Back to duty.

I’ve been worried SICK since he’s been gone.

Off somewhere, shacked up in some hotel room doing Lord knows what.

Now he’s home, all tired and dirty. I’m not sure what he got into but it’s bad.

He’s got something on his lip that wont wash off.

I’ve scrubbed and scrubbed. I even did the ol Granny trick … you know … lick your thumb and scrub. LMAO … Randy says it’s a “mustache” … he CAN’T be serious. With a peach fuzz, dirt smudge on his upper lip, he’s going to talk to ME about mustaches???

I also need to pass along a PSA.

If your riding around in the Catawba area and see my Dodge 5500 (the “Cowboy Cadillac”) , any of my tractors, a fork lift, 4 wheeler or a pedal car fire truck coming … yeild and move to the right.

The Buckaroo, at 4 years old; now has his driver’s license …LOL

I don’t know where or why he got the idea but he’s been on a mission to get/have a driver’s license.

Well, all he had to do (and he knew it) was to tell his Granny. She promised to make him one and mail it to him straight away.

I couldn’t drive past the mail box without stopping for a week. Well, it arrived and he was tickled to death!

Just the fact that there was a letter in there addressed to him had him excited.

I’m going to stop here for tonight and try to get a little rest.

I’ve got a long day of storm clean up and hay to make tomorrow. If any of ya feel like chucking some square bales in 100 degree heat tomorrow, just give me a call…LOL

We’ll be back on duty Sunday to finish up the cycle.

I’ll check back in with ya then but, until I do …. stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 6, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: brotherhood, Buckaroo, building fire, Cannon Sure Shot, Captain Wines, Dave Statter, Evan Williams, fire buff, Fire Critic, Fire Department ride alongs, fire video, firefighter pics, firefighters, house fire, Ironfiremen, Kodak, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, physical fitness, Randy Armbrister, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Statter 911, used tires, video, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, work outs

A vision of calm in the midst of hell

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I’m on 4-day break and glad of it.

I’ve been the acting Battalion this past cycle and on our last day, I had the worst shift of my career.

I say that for several reasons and if you can stick with me for a while, I’ll try to explain why.

My last tour was this past Friday, June 29, 2012. That’s when the storm hit. I don’t know what “kind” of storm it was but I know it was bad. The worst I’ve seen. I’ve never been in a tornado but I can only imagine that what we encountered is what they sound and feel like. It wasn’t a tornado (or at least I don’t think it was) but there were several things that struck me as odd.

First, there was NO WARNING. I received a text message a few minutes before it hit. The text was from an off duty Battalion saying “bad storm headed your way … just saying”.

The second odd thing was that there was no rain … just VERY high winds. We are used to severe thunder storms around here but this was different.

I had just gotten back to the station. The boys had saved me a plate from dinner and I was starting to warm it up. We began to hear the wind howling through the cracks of the doors and windows of the brand new station. It commanded our attention.

Some of the guys stepped out side. That was a mistake. They were immediately sand blasted by dust and debris. Visibility was less than 20 feet. Then, the tones hit.

We were out the door, responding towards our first of what would be hundreds of incidents. We were headed towards an apartment fire off Hollins Road. I was first out with the Engine and Ladder following. Within 2 blocks, I was in shock. ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE.

I’m not a veteran, but I felt as if I was in a war zone. It was almost like the movies. Power lines were arcing and falling in front of the Chiefs buggy as I swerved right, then left to dodge the falling trees and limbs. It was an obstacle of total chaos.

Dispatch called while I was en route…. she told me that they were over run with calls and weren’t sure what to do. I advised her to switch CAD over to “Crisis Mode” and to do the best they could, I’d call her back when possible. I then began to call Administrative Chiefs and update them on what was happening. Apparently, the storms hadn’t hit their communities yet because they didn’t seem too excited. A call from me alone should have been a “hint” that things were getting bad in the City.

When I cleared the first incident, dispatch advised that she had more incidents pending than we had apparatus to respond. She further advised that she had Medic Units (ambulances) responding to reports of house fires by them selves …. NO Engines or Ladders available!

Dispatch split the incidents into two tach channels, North side incidents on one, South side incidents on another. Our rigs were scattered. Engine #6 (from the South side) ended up in my Battalion and I couldn’t have been more happy. The Captain on E6 for C-shift is Scott Mutter. Scott and I came up together and I consider him the best firefighter we have on the job. I knew I could give him assignments and not worry … not that I couldn’t do that with other companies … it’s just that comfort factor that Scottie and I have with each other.

I ended up on a brush fire just across the tracks on the South Side. It was decent in size but under live, arcing wires. With me in the Chief’s buggy, there was nothing I could do. Scott and Engine 6 were close by, so I called him in and left the Police on scene until he arrived.

My next call sent me back into North West. Another report of a house fire. En route, I was once again dodging downed trees and power lines. Dispatch came back and advised multiple calls on this one and that it was fully involved.

My route in was blocked by trees and wires so Medic #5 got in first. They confirmed the reports but I didn’t need that … I could already see it from blocks away.

What I’ve failed to describe to this point is how many incidents and directions I had responded to up until this point. There was no rhyme or reason … we were going everywhere … from one incident to the next, trying to do our best. There was not an Engine or Ladder in the territory it should have been.

I had NO IDEA who or how many Engines I had coming. A Medic was on scene and then Engine #2 pulled up.

Engine #2 didn’t lay a line but went straight to work on one of the exposures (the Bravo one). The next Engine coming (Engine #8 from deep South West) was to be 2nd in and they caught the closest hydrant and got it into E2.

It was a long lay and the hydrant SUCKED. Engine #6 had heard everything happening and headed our way … it was a good thing.

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Streets were blocked, lines were arcing, trucks were stuck at dead ends due to debris. I had a single Engine on scene and no water. I was fixing to loose the entire block! Companies were arriving not knowing what order they were in … 1st in, 2nd in etc. Even though I gave directions of travel, most of them couldn’t be completed due to debris etc.

In my career, I have never felt out of control on an incident until this one!

Two Captains immediately came to my rescue. Captain R.T. “Skippy” Flora (E5) and Captain Robert Perdue (E14) came to the command post and began to assist. Things were still “going to hell in a hand basket” but I wasn’t standing there alone at this point. Again, I’ll say that I’m not sure I can make you understand the “state” we were in …. I had never been inundated with this many incidents. I had never witnessed this much destruction in and entire shift, much less within an hour…. then I seen him.

Father Webb was on scene and our eyes met.

He had been doing a ride-a-long with Engine #6 and there he stood.

When our eyes met, he had a calm look on his face. He smiled at me and winked as if to say he was secure in knowing that I was in command. I don’t think he had a clue how lost I was at the time or how bad our situation was but just that simple nod and wink brought me back to reality.

Father Webb, wearing his white leather and gold shield couldn’t have been more reassuring and calming for me. He must have thought that everything would be fine because I was there, but I knew it would be because he was. That’s when things started to come together.

I had called for a second alarm (which was stupid) and things were falling into place. The building of origin was confirmed to have been evacuated with all occupants out safely. The two exposures were searched and also found to be “all clear”. Engine #2 had saved the exposure and now we were focused on the building of origin.

Multiple lines were laid and we even established a relay from 4 blocks away to assure a good water supply. Despite our efforts, the house was a total loss and seemed sure to collapse into the Bravo exposure. It was still burning and sending members inside was NOT an option. I called in an excavation crew to execute a “controlled collapse” … to knock it down where WE wanted it to fall so we could continue to put it out. That was ANOTHER “first” in my career.

The title of this post relates to Father Webb being on scene. Again I’ll say that in my career, I have never seen this much destruction, had this many calls or had our resources spread so thin at one time. I was totally OVERWHELMED and our Chaplain provided that “vision of calm in the midst of HELL”. It’s not a fair comparison but it took me back to 9/11. I can’t help but to think that our Brothers and Sisters of the FDNY felt that same “calm” as they saw Father Judge in the lobby of the towers. Again, I know it’s not the same but it’s also not the first time I’ve related Father Webb to Father Judge …

See a previous post by clicking HERE

So, After seeing Father Webb, things ran a lot smoother but I messed up ten ways to Sunday on this one. The good news is that nobody was injured and I learned several lessons.

At the time I marked a working fire and requested a 2nd alarm, I think we had somewhere around 140 calls pending. 140 calls waiting for a rig to clear so they could respond to another incident ALONE!

I never should have committed all those resources to a single incident. Lucky for me, this was the biggest incident of the night ( maybe because I made it so). There could have been other incidents where we were more needed. At one point, I had 7 Engines, 3 Ladders and 4 Medic units assigned.

I should have held only 2 Engines and a Ladder and concentrated on saving the exposures …. we WERE in crisis mode and I ended up knocking the house of origin down anyway.

Why was I thinking about this one incident when we had 140 some others pending?

I shouldn’t even have been responding to incidents … our Oficers are more than capable of running an incident and I could have been of more use in the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) or dispatch.

That’s why I’ve never made Chief … I think like a fireman!

I was lucky again in that my decision didn’t affect other families. I got Companies cleared reasonably quick and we continued to run calls throughout the night. ALL MEMBERS of Roanoke Fire/EMS did an outstanding job that night…. NO LIVES WERE LOST !

I’ll post more on this event very soon … it’s one of those incidents that I just cant “shake”. It came out of nowhere, without warning and put me in the middle of what seemed like a war zone. I was out of my element and didn’t make the decisions that I thought I was poised to make. I was not as “battle ready” as I thought.

The other part to this story is that it’s far from over. Virginia is in a “State of Emergency” and many remain without electricity. Temps are at or above 100 degrees with no relief in sight. There was millions of dollars of damages last Friday and I’ll bet that the insurance companies will call the events “an act of God” to avoid paying (which is sure to raise tempers along with the temperatures). The power companies are telling us that it may be weeks before electricity is restored. No water, no ice, food spoiling etc. Stores are closed and prices will soar will they can reopen. I don’t know how much more we can take. We are about to be tested again …. I think I’m better prepared for the next round… I hope it wont be as bad as I think it will but either way, I still hope Father Webb (or your Chaplain) is close by.

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on July 1, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, Dispatch & Communications, Emergency Communications, Fire Dispatch, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, major-incidents, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: 2nd alarm, brotherhood, building collaspe, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Crisis Mode, Father Mychal Judge, Father Sandy Webb, fire, Fire Critic, Fire Department Chaplain Programs, firefighter pics, firefighters, fully involved, fully involved structure fire, house fire, IronFiremen.com, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, major fire, major incident, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Scott Mutter, Severe Storm, State of Emergency, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Porn Star or Felon …which do you want in your station??

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Back in Feb. 2012, I ran a series of posts related to convicted felons working (or volunteering) as Fire / EMS responders.

It started with some details from a local news story that just simply, “hit me wrong”. After I posted about a local Volunteer Fire Chief (Billy Joe Carter), the situation kind of grew.

I found out things that I never would have imagined happening right here in my back yard …. I was shocked.

The most shocking thing I learned was how many convicted felons are running on crews here in Virginia. I couldn’t believe it.

What was more shocking was how many readers didn’t see a big issue with it. Some even wanted to categorize different levels of a felon!

I’m still confused as to what’s an acceptable felon? I never knew there was a good and bad one. All I know is that I don’t want a convicted felon working beside me nor do I want one responding to and entering my home.

Catch up and read those previous posts by clicking HERE

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Well, Botetourt County hired an Emergency Service’s Coordinator (I’ll post more on Carr Boyd from Charlotte, NC soon) and things have somewhat settled down (although they still haven’t resolved the felon issue). Now, all the drama seems to be headed Roanoke County’s way….

One of the local Volunteer Rescue Squads has an ex-porn star as a member.

Apparently, 29 year old Harmony Rose has left the Adult movie industry, is now living in Va. and aspiring to become a nurse. She has also joined the Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad and some folks aren’t too happy about it.

Personally, I don’t see what all the fuss is about.

She has done nothing illegal …. being an adult movie actress (porn star) does not make you a convicted felon…. but wait …. even if it did, it’s apparently ok the be a convicted felon AND a firefighter/EMT here in Va.

Just out of high school, Harmony went to work at a Hooters restaurant in Florida. After a while, she began dancing (stripping) at a Gentleman’s Club and from there moved into the Adult film industry. She also worked some in the real estate business as a “side job”. By all appearances, she has been very successful.

Now, apparently; she has decided to move toward a nursing career and has chosen to start by volunteering with a local Rescue Squad …. a smart move by any aspiring nursing student.

Was the path she chose to get to this point in her life the most reputable??? In some minds…. maybe not. It’s not the path I would have wanted my daughters to have taken but I also understand why so many young women do. Who are we to judge?

Again, I don’t see what all the “fuss” is about. She’s a good looking,apparently intelligent woman. She has done nothing illegal and is working towards a new career. To my knowledge she has met all qualifications for membership. There is nothing on the application about previous employment or sexual taste /preference. She was not a member of the CSVRS at the time she made all the movies nor were any of them filmed with her in their uniform or while on their property.

View the Cave Spring Vol. Rescue Squad application HERE

Again I’ll say … what’s all the fuss about? What has she done wrong? A lot of the “hype” I’m hearing is around what some are calling a “morals and ethics issue”. Morals and ethics??? Who’s do we go by? Are ours all the same?

I understand that public servants are held to a “higher standard” but whos?

What standard are we talking about here anyway … having sex? Apparently she’s had a lot of practice and is very good at it so I’d say she far exceeds the average standard as it applies to sex…LOL

All kidding aside, sex is a natural act. Most of us do it. My parents did … obviously yours did too. Hell, Rhett even has 2 children so the odds are good that he has at least twice in his life.

The rumor is that someone on the squad recognized her and began asking questions. How did they recognize her??? They’ve seen one of her movies…that’s how! So I guess the standards for making vs. simply watching an adult movie are different?

I guess what they’re saying is that it’s ok to do it as long as you don’t talk about it? Hypocritical if ya ask me.

I think the reaction I’m hearing from some people could be stemmed more from insecurity and/or jealousy rather than rational thought. I’m sure some of the wives / girlfriends of the male volunteers are not happy and most likely feel threatened in one way or another. If so, I wonder why they don’t feel the same way about other female members?

Do they not trust their husbands / boyfriends? Is that Harmony’s fault? If they are so worried, maybe they should just volunteer alongside their husband or boyfriend …. I’m sure Cave Spring could use the extra help.

Maybe the uproar is because Harmony is a good looking woman? Maybe they could create an “appearance standard” on their application and only allow us ugly folk to volunteer. Maybe it’s that they don’t want their husbands / boyfriends to see how other women can perform in the bedroom? None of which are reason enough to be discriminant towards her.

I wonder if we’d be hearing all this fuss is it were a male porn star in question?

There’s another problem with this story. I don’t understand why the Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad or Roanoke County hasn’t gotten out in front of the story…. if it’s a “story” at all (they should have Dave Statter and Rhett give em a class on how to handle these types of issues). I know that the Officers are aware of the situation and that they have been working to decide a how to handle it. It may be too late because the cat is out of the bag.

The “talk” is everywhere … firehouses, rescue squads, the medic room at the ER etc. Before long, the story will hit the main stream press and here in “The Bible Belt”, it will spread like wildfire. At the very least, someone like FireCritic.com or Ironfiremen.com will hear about it and put the story out. Why not be in “front” of the story rather than behind it?

If they are going to “kick her off” the squad…. do it NOW and justify the reasons (and they had better be good ones). If they elect to allow her to participate as a volunteer (as they should), stop the rumors cold by coming out and saying she meets all the requirements and there IS NO ISSUE.

If she responds to your home and you recognize her, it’s most likely because you’ve seen her films too. I’m sure she’s thankful for your purchase and personal contribution to her nursing school fund.

So what do you think?? Should she be allowed to volunteer or not? Should a previous career as an adult film star keep an applicant from volunteering while convicted felons are allowed? What other previous professions would disqualify an applicant? Are they listed on the application of your Department? I’m curious what you folks think.

I’ll stand behind her any day … I say allow her to volunteer!

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on June 27, 2012 • Filed under: ems-topics, fire-rescue-topics, funding-staffing, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: Adult film stars, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Cave Spring Volunteer Rescue Squad, Fire Critic, firefighters, Harmony Rose, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Roanoke County Fire / Rescue, Statter 911, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Something’s fishy and I bet I’ll make ya cry … well I did anyway

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The “fishy” part comes from yesterday (Wednesday) evening.

It rained on and off all day and I decided early to end the day by taking the Buckaroo cat fishing.

Sometimes, I get a little ahead of myself because I don’t even own a fishing pole…LOL

No problem though because all I had to do was call Pop and tell him my plans. I think he was loading the truck before we even finished the call.

He made it out to the farm and late yesterday evening we made our way up to the secret “honey hole”.

On the very first cast, the Buckaroo landed his first catfish!

The next thing you know he’s pulling em in right and left. Now, the little fella thinks he’s Bill Dance of something …. just look at that pose …LOL

It was a short session but very enjoyable. A GREAT way to end a long hard day.

I’m lucky to have such a large and great family (personal and firehouse) to share these moments with. I only wish my oldest daughter ( Randi-Jo ) and brother (Jack) could have been with us for the Buckaroo’s first catch … they are the two “real” fishermen of the family.

I have some more pics from the evening that I’ll share on Face Book so you all can see..

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So, that’s the “fishy” part of the title … I have a ton more stuff to share that is not fishy at all…. I’ll start with our latest “Product Review” from our site FireProductReview.com . The “FatIvan” fold up door chock review is up and waiting for YOUR review as well. Our site is the ONLY “firefighter” product site where YOU get the chance to “score” the products as well. Be sure it check it out (use the link above) and don’t forget to follow us on Face Book by clicking HERE

I also need to mention the fact that September is going to be a VERY busy month and I’m already excited. The 5th annual Officer’s Seminar will be held here in Roanoke and our speaker / presenter will be none other than Chris Naum! Yea… “THAT” Chris Naum. The Chris Naum of The Company Officer , Command Safety , Buildings on Fire and more!

I can’t wait to see and hear this presentation! I believe it will be our best seminar yet (as it should be after 5 yrs in the making).

Rhett and I will be heavily involved in promoting the event and keeping you informed as to the details (raffles, door prizes, after party etc.) so be sure to keep checking in with us.

If you are within a 2-3 hour drive of Roanoke, you will NOT want to miss this event ! Bristol to Winchester, if you are, or aspire to be; a company officer… make your plans NOW. Firefighter to Chief … everyone in attendance will learn something worth taking home!

Also in September, Rhett and I will be traveling out to South Dakota!

Oh yea baby … this is going to be MY kind of trip. We are heading out of the 1st annual South Dakota Firefighters Benefit.

Basically, “The South Dakota Firefighter Benefit is an evening of Brotherhood and Fellowship for firefighters and families in the South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska area. Join us for great food and numerous giveaways. The evening will benefit the NFFF and NFE.”

Yep … one great big event for that areas firefighters and all proceeds go to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation as well as to the National Firefighters Endowment .

Rhett and I will be in State an entire week before the event. We will travel across the state in a Crimson Fire Truck making stops along the way at fire schools, houses etc to meet and talk with our Brothers and Sisters from South Dakota. Then, on the 15th; we will deliver the keynote address for the program …. WE ARE STOKED! If you are in that area, make your plans now to attend and / or let us know if you’d like us to stop by your house on our way from Rapid City to Sioux Falls.

See the web site HERE or follow on Face Book HERE

Since I’m talking about places North of here, I need to take another moment and mention somewhere and someone WELL NORTH of Va.

So North, it’s actually in Canada…. Calgary as a matter of fact.

A little while back, Zach Green of MN8 FoxFire was up there on business. While there, Zach met Luke Brisson who turns out was /is a fan of Ironfiremen.com. He had seen some of my “farm” pics where I was wearing my team roping buckle and figured me for the “buckle” type.

He sent me this one back and I LOVE IT ! I’ll get it on a belt and snap a pic for him soon …. be sure to keep checking back for that shot. THANKS for the thought, gesture and for sharing the Brotherhood from all the way across the border … I can’t wait to shake your hand and thank you personally.

Ok, so to finish with my title… I’m going to make you cry. I want to share a very touching local story with ya. You may remember back to October 2009 when we lost Captain Chris Brown to a sudden illness … see related posts and photos HERE HERE and HERE .

His daughter, Caroline just graduated Valedictorian of her class and remembered her father in a way that only a daughter could. The story made me proud to be a father, to know Caroline and to have known and worked with her father.

Watch the video from WDBJ7.com by clicking HERE

Seriously … hit the link and watch that video….

Until I get back … stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on June 7, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: brotherhood, Buckaroo, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chris Brown, Chris Naum, door chocks, FatIvan, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, Firefighter Product Reviews, firefighters, FireProductReview.com, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, National Firefighters Endowment, NFE, NFFF, Roanoke Fire Officers Seminar, Roanoke Fire/EMS, South Dakota Firefighter Benefit, The Thin Red Line Card, WDBJ7, WDBJ7.com, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

We’re at it again ….

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My postings have been few and far between here lately but don’t panic …. that’s normal for me around this time of the year.

Hay season has officially started so the Buckaroo and I are spending most of our time in the tractor.

The days are long and hard and the honest answer is that by the time we get in … I’m just too tired to post.

I only wish that I could sleep as sound as the Buckaroo.

So while the Buckaroo and I have been hard at work on the farm, the “busy season” has also began for me and the “Buckaroo #2″ …. aka Rhett.

This is the time of year that we typically hit the road for conferences, teaching, speaking engagements etc.

Last week, we even teamed up with Dave Statter so he and Rhett could present “Social Media in the Fire Service” at the Ohio Fire Chief Association’s Leadership Seminar in Newark, Ohio. See my previous post HERE .

Follow Iron Firemen.com on Face Book Click HERE and “Like”

We had a BLAST in Ohio and met some really great folks.

It seems as if these Ohio Chiefs “get it”.

Rhett and Dave presented what is most likely the most well rounded class on “Social Media in the Fire Service” in the nation. They were able to really engage the Chiefs. Actually, the class kind of continued later on that evening out on the dock over a few beers.

We even had the opportunity to share a meal with the members of Newark’s (Ohio) Station #1

They have a GREAT house and even better members! Thanks for the meal and the BROTHERHOOD!

This week, Rhett and I are at the Monmouth County Fire Academy in Howell, NJ teaching social media for Kean University .

I think this is like the 5th time Rhett has taught up here for Kean.

Once again, we’ve found ourselves on the Jersey Shore.

See previous posts HERE and HERE

Rhett keeps talking about some kind of “situation” with this gal named “Snooki” or something. Apparently, she’s pregnant and they aren’t sure how it happened. He says they are even filming a TV show about it and he thinks we should be on it.

I don’t know how he talks me into all this stuff …… next thing you know, we’ll be paying child support to some Jersey gal who is already making 5 times my salary.

Well I don’t know about any TV show or it’s cast but I do know that we have met some GREAT folks up here.

Last night, Tim Mickens picked us up at the hotel and took us out for a pizza and beer.

Tim is a Brother firefighter from the Little Silver Volunteer Company here on the Jersey Shore.

Apparently, Tim has been following our sites (and on Face Book) and didn’t want to miss the chance to meet us in person.

I’m glad he didn’t …. Tim is a GREAT guy who obviously “gets it”.

He took us out to Zacharys and we had a BLAST!

The food was awesome … the beers ICE COLD and the Brotherhood strong.

We shared a ton of stories and bonded new friendships.

Even our waitress, Amy; had a good time …. I don’t think she has ever met anyone quite like us….. LOL

She was a real cutie and yes Dave Statter …. she IS standing up and Rhett IS taller than her (he was so excited..LMAO)

The only thing in NJ hotter than Amy last night was the fire we missed in Long Branch….

See the related article HERE

I think Tim actually got the page for the fire but we were already too many beers into the night to go. And, while I’m talking about fires …. they have a couple going today here at the Monmouth County Fire Academy.

This is an amazing facility. I will try to get out and grab a few pictures during lunch break and update you on our trip later on. It’s going to be a quick trip for us and we’ll be heading home this evening so I’m not sure if the update will come tonight or sometime tomorrow. At the least, we’ll be able to throw some pics up on Face Book so keep checking in with us regularly.

Follow IronFiremen.com on Face Book..click HERE

Until we get back to ya … stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on June 2, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Training, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: brotherhood, Buckaroo, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, fire training centers, fire training facility, firefighter pics, firefighters, Ironfiremen, Long Branch, Long Branch NJ, Monmouth County Fire Academy, multiple alarm fire, Rhett Fleitz, Social Media, Social Media in the Fire Service, Statter 911, The Fire Critic, video, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire, working fire photos, working fire video, working house fire

School Bus roll over in Botetourt County … on board students call 911

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photo from WDBJ 7

A school bus in Botetourt County rolled over at approx. 08:20 am on Wednesday morning (5/23/2012).

The bus had 39 students and the driver aboard.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation but it is believed to have been related to an on board argument. The driver, it’s said; was distracted and looking into the rear view mirror prior to the accident.

That driver, Mary Elizabeth Esque of Eagle Rock Virginia; has been charged by Virginia State Police with “Reckless Driving”. She has also been temporarily suspended from her duties as a driver while the investigation continues. She has no prior driving citations.

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The bus involved was not equipped with seat belts or safety restraints. Of the 39 students aboard, 13 were transported to local hospitals with what has been described as minor injuries. The call to 911 actually came from one of the on board students as the driver worked to remove others from the overturned vehicle.

Listen to the 911 call , video and more HERE

PHOTOS from WDBJ 7 HERE

The incident was one of the first “tests” for the newly hired Carr Boyd ( related article HERE ).

Boyd was recently hired as the County’s Emergency Services Director despite a lot of opposition and controversy from local Volunteer Chiefs.

This MCI ( Mass Casualty Incident ) was apparently handled very smoothly and efficiently. Responding units were Botetourt’s career staff from Fincastle and Read Mountain Stations, volunteer members / equipment from Fincastle, Eagle Rock and Troutville, and mutual-aid from Roanoke County.

The Incident Commander was Division Chief Jason Ferguson.

I’m happy to see that the hiring of Carr Boyd has not resulted in the ” hurt feelings and busted noses” as suggested by Buchanan’s Volunteer Fire Chief Billy Joe Carter.

Read “Volunteer vs. Paid… Respect my Authoritah !!“

The search for this position drew a lot of attention to Botetourt County’s Emergency Services (mostly here on Ironfiremen.com). For many, it was an unneeded position. With a “school yard” type attitude, most of the opposition to the position was due to the fact that the Director has the authority to assume Command of an Emergency Incident. Some of the Volunteer Chiefs felt as if the new Director would exercise this authority and take command of all of “their” Incidents.

It almost seemed like their concern was more for their “ego” rather than the citizens and visitors of Botetourt County. Sadly, my investigation into the issue brought to light several more serious issues in Botetourt County Emergency Services.

Read “Volunteer Leadership“

For more from Ironfiremen.com, use the search box (top right) and keyword “Buchanan”

The fact that Boyd did not “take” command of this incident says a lot to me about his tactics. Obviously, Chief Ferguson was able to and DID handle the situation appropriately. Boyd did not “take” command because he “out ranked” Ferguson …. it was about competence. I believe Boyd would have handled himself in the same manner had a volunteer Chief been in “command” and doing a good job.

I think Director Boyd “passed” his first test and is doing a good job thus far. I look forward to seeing what improvements he can bring to Botetourt County and their provision of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.

My child was not on that bus but to every member and Department represented on scene … THANKS and WELL DONE!

Is your Department ready to handle a school bus accident, roll over or extrication? We have a GREAT source of information for you right here on the Fire/EMS Blog Network…..

Click to visit “First Due Tackle“

Stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 25, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, command-leadership, Dispatch & Communications, Emergency Communications, EMS Dispatch, ems-topics, Fire Dispatch, fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, major-incidents, mass-casualty-incident, news, patient-management, rescues, Uncategorized • Tagged: Botetourt County Director of Emergency Services, Botetourt County Va, brotherhood, Buchanan Vol. Fire Chief Billy Joe Carter, Buchanan Volunteer Fire Department, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Carr Boyd, Fire Critic, firefighter pics, firefighters, Incident Command, IronFiremen.com, Mass Casualty Incident, MCI, school bus, school bus accident, school bus extrication, school bus roll over, school bus seat belts, seat belts, training, vehicle extrication, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Did ya feel it??

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My post last night was titled “where were you when the world stopped turning?” . Well it didn’t stop today but it did shake a little…. in Ohio anyway. Why you may ask???

I’m in Newark, Ohio with Rhett and Dave Statter …. yea…. they’re together!

We’re up here because they are presenting on Social Media for the Ohio Fire Chief Association’s Leadership Seminar.

“Presenting” as in teaching … TOGETHER … IN THE SAME ROOM!

In speaking of Face Book, one of the slides says .. “If Face Book were a Country” …. it continues to say that it would be the 3rd largest in the world (behind India and China) but I say it still wouldn’t be big enough for these two heads / egos …LMAO!

All kidding aside, the Ohio Chiefs assembled here are getting one hell of a class. The only way it could be any better would be if we had Curt Varone of Fire Law Blog along.

Despite all of the rumor and hype, Rhett and Dave work very well together …. especially in this arena.

It’s actually very funny because I get to see both sides. When in public, they are always throwing “jabs” at each other (although they are very professional while teaching / speaking) BUT …. when we are alone, they can often be seen holding hands and skipping down the hallway of our hotel…LMAO (I throw up in my mouth every time I see it).

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If you or your Department hasn’t had a class on Social Media …. it’s not too late. We see so many Chiefs who say our Department doesn’t have a web site or Face Book account so “we’re not on it”. Our reply is simple …. how many members do you have? How many of them have Face Book, Twitter accounts etc?

“I don’t know”

Then guess what???? Your Department IS on Face Book, Twitter etc. If those members post pictures, comments etc then they are putting a view / perception of your Department “out there” and you have no idea about it. No idea and no control. You should see the look on their face when they realize it. In some cases, I will actually locate pictures etc of that Department’s apparatus etc and show them.

The material covered goes much deeper than this. Today’s presentation was broken into 7 sections over 6 hours and we just “brushed” on the topics. It’s a GREAT presentation and TRUST ME …. you and your Department NEED IT!

Find out how to have us speak at you event / Department HERE or HERE

I also need to say what GREAT hosts the Brothers up here in Ohio are. We are staying at and the seminar is being held at the Cherry Valley Lodge . It’s a VERY nice venue but of course … that’s how we roll!

We were met with open arms and Assistant Chief Tom O’Brian even invited us out to Newark’s Station #1 for dinner this evening.

The entire group has been very interactive with the presentation and is full of what seems to be some forward thinking and good Chiefs. I can’t name them all but just for example, we’ve met Chief Tom Stewart and his Assistant Chief Matthew Noble of the Orange Township Fire Department .

Chief Rick Anderson of the Ashland Fire Department ( IAFF L-1386 ) is also here and playing a huge roll in making the event run so smoothly. Again, I can’t name every Chief or Department represented but again I’ll say TRUST ME … the Ohio Fire Chiefs are a great bunch of guys who seem to “get it”.

I’ll try to post more on today’s events and tonight’s dinner later on tonight. Rhett and I have a few stops to make along the way of our trip home tomorrow and they should make for some good stories as well. Until I get back to ya … try to picture Rhett and Dave holding hands and skipping down the hallway (without upchucking) but most of all …. stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 23, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, news, technology-communications, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: Ashland Ohio Fire, brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chief Matthew Noble, Chief Rick Anderson, Chief Tom Stewart, Curt Varone, Dave Statter, Fire Critic, Fire Law, firefighter pics, firefighters, IAFF, IAFF L-1386, Ironfiremen, Leadership Seminar, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Newark, Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, Ohio Fire Department, Social Media, Social Media in the Fire Service, Statter 911, training, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Where were YOU when the world stopped turning

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I’ve got a lot of catching up to do and I’m not going to get it done in tonight’s post…. I hope this one will be short and sweet and I’ll get more up tomorrow.

The title of this one has a few meanings to it. First off, I went to an Alan Jackson concert this past Friday night. IT WAS AWESOME!

I’m not sure who to thank … my Department, our Civic Center, the concert promoters or Alan Jackson himself because our tickets were free. Somehow or another, both the Fire and Police Departments received several free tickets to disperse to their members.

Our Department simply paged out that they had em and to call if you wanted a set. I made the call without thinking. Had I have thought about it, I most likely wouldn’t have called. It’s the beginning of hay season and a very busy time on the farm. I’m not a fan of big crowds or loud music …. I don’t “get out” and it’s most often by choice.

After I got the tickets, I began regretting it. Too much going on, having to end my day early … take a bath etc. In my mind, the only “plus side” to going was that my wife (Donna) would get a much needed and deserved night out.

When we walked inside the civic center, I was shocked … it wasn’t a good turnout for the show. I figured Alan Jackson would see all the empty seats, play a few tunes and haul butt. HE DIDN’T.

We had GREAT seats and the stage had a large TV screen on both sides. The camera crews did a fantastic job of getting the “right” shots and provided plenty of close ups of Alan. It was evident in his facial expressions that he was playing for / from his passion for his job (it was obviously not because of a “packed house”) He played as if he was standing on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry or Madison Square Gardens. The music was not too loud or over bearing nor was there an excess of lights, explosions etc…. it was Alan Jackson singing.

I know most of his songs but have never seen him perform live. I was hoping he would play “Where were you when the world stopped turning” and he did. I stood through the entire song. Donna kept pulling at my shirt, wanting me to sit but I would have none of it.

I stood to honor and thank him for honoring us.

He even had the well know picture of the firefighters raising the flag at Ground Zero on the screen as he sang.

If you even have the chance to see an Alan Jackson concert … GO!

I’ll throw in the video for anyone who has never heard the song ( and I doubt there’s anyone who hasn’t ) but there’s NOTHING like hearing it live and in person ….

Ok, the 2nd meaning of the title for this posts is due to where I am tonight and more than that … WHO I’m with. Rhett and I are on yet another “road trip” but, this time; Dave Statter is with us (or we’re with him…lol).

Yep … Rhett and Dave are traveling together and I’m along to chaperon.

Apparently, I’m good at what I do because it’s been nothing but a “love fest” thus far … it’s almost sickening…LOL

We are in Newark, Ohio where we (Rhett and Dave ) have teamed up to present on social media in/for the Fire Service.

We are at the Ohio Fire Chief’s Association’s Leadership Seminar and these folks are in for a real treat!

I’ll update ya more in tomorrow’s post on how we’re getting along. The two “stars” of the show are currently down in the hot tub working out their pre-show jitters so I should have plenty to report.

For a little local “catch up”, the Brothers and Sisters from our South Side caught a little work last day ( Sunday ) and a citizen caught it on video. Rhett has the complete set of all 3 videos over on Va Fire News HERE . I’ll include “part 1″ which includes the knock down …

I’ll check back tomorrow…. until then, stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 22, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized, videos • Tagged: 9/11, Alan Jackson, apartment fire, brotherhood, building fire, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Dave Statter, FDNY, Fire Critic, fire video, firefighter pics, firefighters, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Ohio Fire Chiefs Association, Social Media, Social Media in the Fire Service, Statter 911, video, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen, Working fire

“Old School” Captains …

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I guess it depends on your own definition of what “old school” is but, for me; I’m talking about the good ones. Back when we had “Wooden Ladders and Iron Firemen”.

I was lucky to have grown up around several of them. I was even luckier to have gotten hired and worked under or around several more.

They were the Captains that Rookies feared yet respected at the same time. No non-sense types that knew their jobs and would settle for nothing less than you learning yours. These were the men that you didn’t want to piss off or let down. When called into the office, you never wanted to hear “close the door”. If they were mad or disappointed, it meant that you had failed in some way or another. They taught you something from even the everyday “little” things.

There was a “life lesson” or some sort of Fire Department training in every task. They worked hard and expected the same of you. There was never an option other than “the right thing” and they ALWAYS looked after their members.

I don’t understand it fully because for most of us… we didn’t know these men before the Fire Department. They weren’t our fathers or someone that we had grown up with. What was so “special” about these men that made us work so hard and strive for perfection (in their eyes anyway) ? What drew us to them? What made us want so badly to keep them happy?

It’s an intangible quality that I’ve work for my entire career. I’ve been a Captain for 12 years and I still haven’t gotten there … I hope to one day.

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Like I said before, I’ve been lucky enough to know several of these type Captains and this morning, I got a little “validation” (if you will) from one of them that I’ve looked up to since I was hired.

You all know my Senior Firefighter Todd “Boots” Harris. When I got on, Todd’s dad, Gary; was a Captain on my shift. He was very well respected and rightfully so. I never worked for Gary but was around him a lot. At the time, I drove our Battalion Chief ( Chief Patton).

I was one of the least senior and youngest men in our Battalion yet I thought I knew it all. Back then, my position as Chief driver; was basically a license to free lance. Right or wrong, I took FULL advantage of the opportunity. We ran every fire on the “North Side” and most of em on the South. Whenever we’d get there, the Chief would simply tell me … “get in there and put it out”. NO radios … NO assignment … NO accountability etc … I just went to work.

I wasn’t well liked. We’d come in, I’d pack up, run in … get to (or as close as possible to) the nozzle or grab and go to work. After the knock down, a little bit of salvage / overhaul etc, then; the Chief and I would load up and head back to quarters. No hose loading, clean up etc. I was a “cowboy” on an open range …. I had a free pass to ride.

There’s no wonder a lot of the older members (and especially Officers) didn’t think much of me. I didn’t know it, but I was going about it all wrong. I thought I could earn “respect” that way. I thought that made me a good fireman … getting to the fire and getting water on it. I didn’t realize that it was so much more to the job because I had blinders on … tunnel vision. It wasn’t just what I was doing either.. my attitude matched the actions… again.. I thought I knew it all and DIDN’T.

Most of the Captains from those days are now retired…. Todd’s dad Gary included. Several of them, I still see quite often (Union meetings, Department functions, funerals etc). Now, I’m a Captain and I can’t help but wonder what they think of that when they see me. I know they have their doubts and I don’t blame them.

Boots and his dad (Gary) run a sports bar in the City ( The Second Alarm ) and have for the last 30 years or more.

See a related post from Rhett’s Roanoke Fire.com HERE … Todd and Gary did later reopen a little farther up Williamson Road.

Obviously, I see Gary a lot. More so than others, I often wonder what HE thinks of me having made Captain. Again I can’t explain it but, for whatever reason; I still look for and want his “validation”.

I most likely didn’t make the best impression on him back when I was a Private and now, not only am I a Captain, I’m his sons Captain (and Boots has more seniority… he’s been on the job longer yet I’ve passed him in rank). That “hot dog” “cowboy” firefighter from back in the day is now responsible for his sons welfare on the job.

Gary and my dad are a LOT alike. Neither is a man of many words. I guess it’s also a “fireman” thing because they don’t have to say it … I know what they want to or are trying to say and we both understand that we “understand” …LOL. Well today, Gary basicly told me that I’m a good Captain and I can’t tell you how much THAT meant to me!

We had a bad night. One like I hope to never experience again ( getting home late and worn out lead to a hot bath, tottie and bed!)

Without giving too much detail, Boots had a medical emergency at the station last night. He got out of bed and came to me for “help”. As soon as I seen him, I knew something was wrong … he looked BAD. I can’t explain that feeling. Seeing him like that. It takes a LOT to shake me but that did. I was ON THE JOB and scared. This wasn’t “John Q Citizen” … it was Boots.

Our Brothers from Medic #4 (thanks Brooks and “Milky”) rushed over and got us to the ER. As soon as we were settled and knew everything was going to be “ok”, I had to call “mom and dad” and tell them where we were and and what was going on. THAT is a difficult call to make even though Boots was doing very well. I knew what the first thing through their mind would be when they answered the phone at midnight to hear MY voice.

I thought about not calling but Battalion Chief Adkins (Teddy) made a great point. Would I rather call now, knowing that it will put them in a panic or; have Captain Harris find out the next morning (or at 4-5am) and know that we had been in the ER all night with his son and I didn’t call?? Hummm… good point …he would have killed me. I made the call.

Gary and Todd’s mom arrived at the ER and stayed the night by his side. Everything worked out as good as possible and Todd was released this morning. He is doing fine and should be back to work next cycle. We ended up going back into service and returning to quarters.

After shift break, I gathered Todd’s clothes etc and headed over to the house. I spent a little time making sure he was comfortable, settled and that he didn’t need anything.

I rubbed his feet a little, read him the cartoons from this months Hustler and tucked him in for some much needed rest. When I left, I went straight to the bar … The Second Alarm.

You see, had everything have been normal; that’s where Todd would have been. He and his dad meet there every morning to clean and stock from the night before. Today (as with every day that Boots is on duty), Gary would have to work alone. I went to the bar to stand-in for Boots … to help Gary (he had been up in the ER all night as well).

It was there, in his own “round about way” that he thanked me and basically told me that I was doing a good job as Captain. There wasn’t a lot of spoken words back and forth but he made his point.

I was honored … HUMBLED and I want to say like almost “proud”. I didn’t need nor expect his thanks. We ( me, Georgie, Teddy, Brooks or Milky) didn’t do anything that anyone else wouldn’t have done.

What hit me the most was that Gary said “I’m glad you were there son” ( he has always called me “son”). It’s funny how a statement as simple as that, from someone whom I hold in such high esteem; validated so much of everything I’ve been working for and towards my entire career. On one hand, It makes me feel as if I’ve grown closer to the Captain that I’ve always aspired to be. On the other hand, it posed several questions…..

How many times do I pass out a “good job” ….. “well done” … “proud of ya”? As a Captain, do I give the “validation” due to my members? Have I been? Will it mean as much to them, coming from a Captain like ME as it meant to me coming from an “old school” Captain such as Gary Harris ….. I HOPE SO.

Again I’ll say that Boots is at home, resting and doing very well. I will update you on his condition if needed but I don’t expect it will be. I’m back on duty tomorrow (Tuesday) and will get another post up asap…. until then, stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 14, 2012 • Filed under: administration-leadership, fire-rescue-topics, firefighter-safety-health, news, Uncategorized • Tagged: brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Chief James Patton, Father and son firefighters, Fire Critic, Firefighter Bars, firefighter health, firefighter pics, firefighters, Gary Harris, Ironfiremen, leadership, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, Officer Development, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Second Alarm, Sports Bar, Todd Harris, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

Someone you need to know …flowing foam, dragging 2 1/2″, visitors and more

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To start with, I need to mend some hurt feelings. Can you imagine that …. firemen “catching feelings”. One because I didn’t say something … the other because I did! WTF?

I have mentioned Retired Lt Mike Overacker on my site many times over the years. Last week, I failed to check his site for pictures of some of our recent fires and therefore, didn’t link to his site. I was merely an oversight and an issue of not having enough hours in the day. It was not a case of me getting “too big for my britches”.

That said, Mike was able to grab some great shots of a couple fires last week.

Visit Roanoke Firefighters.com

Instead of sending a nasty-gram e-mail, maybe next time Mikey will use his spare time to call and let me know that he posted some good pictures of this or that fire and I will gladly link to them.

So, obviously; Mikey was upset that I didn’t say something. “Fire Boy” Rhett Fleitz was up in arms over my saying too much. He was apparently upset that I took the time to congratulate Dave Statter on reaching his 5th Birthday over at Statter911.com

In the comment section, Rhett called my post ( Better Late Than Never ) a “love fest” that he thought “would never end”. I can’t win for loosing!

So PLEASE take the time to visit the Fire Critic’s site after you’ve looked at RoanokeFirefighters.com. He actually has some good articles and the occasional picture.

Rhett is always thinking…. bringing new and fresh material to Fire Critic.com and keeping both of his loyal followers well informed. Most recently, he has started a new weekly series that he calls “20 Questions”. Basically, he is posing a 20 question interview to some of the top names in today’s fire service (and some folks you may not have heard of yet but should and will soon).

Read his 1st installment “20 Questions with Christopher Brennan of Fire Service Warrior”

This week, he interviewed Shane Parkins of the National Firefighters Endowment.

This is a man that EVERY member on the job should know.

Shane lives out in California and is the President of the National Firefighter’s Endowment. The Endowment is a non-profit group whose mission is “to support fire departments that may lack the resources to effectively do the job. More specifically, our focus is on ensuring firefighters have the tools to respond in times of crisis, and do so safely“.

In a nut shell, they provide “grants” for the equipment we need to do our jobs. Don’t let the word “grant” scare ya … THEY ARE EASY TO APPLY FOR!

Shane and the NFE is currently accepting video applications for several $5,000 Equipment Grants that they have to offer. Yea… it’s that easy. Send them a short video explaining what equipment your Department needs and why ….. next thing you know, Shane and the NFE could be coming to your rescue!

Details for $5,000 Equipment Grant from the National Firefighters Endowment by clicking HERE

TRUST ME …. get to know this guy and support the National Firefighters Endowment ANY WAY YOU CAN! These are the folks helping us… the firefighters. In these times of cut backs in staffing, salaries, station closings / brown outs etc .. who else is on our side? Shane gave a GREAT interview in Rhett’s 2nd “20 Questions” installment… he explains a lot of what the NFE is all about …. take the time … READ IT!

20 Questions with Shane Parkins of National Firefighters Endowment

Now go back and read questions #5 and #6 again. This time … hit the links for the NFE’s Officer’s Club and join. I promise you that your donation will pay off in one way or another.

Ok…moving on… we’re back on duty today. It’s been busy but productive.

We started off by flowing some foam over at our water treatment plant.

Our rig is a Pierce Quantum that carries 1,000 gallons of water and 40 gallons of foam.

It’s equipped with a Huskey Foam System that is actually pretty sweet.

We don’t use / flow a lot of foam here in “The Noke” so it was good to get out and flow a little.

This was actually the first time that I’ve flowed foam from this Engine (due to the cost etc … we’re not allowed to train with foam) and I’ll have to admit that I was pleased.

We carry 2 TFT foam nozzles on the rig plus we had an old style “pipe”.

All 3 nozzles did very well at both 1% and 3%.

I only wish Randy …. aka “Rocket Randy Armbrister from Max Meadows Virginia” was with us today. Apparently Captain Clayton “I’m 1st Due everywhere” Martin banged out sick today so we had to ship a man out to Station #3.

The good news about sending our Rookie to #3 is that I’m sure he learned something. The bad news is it was probably all about Band-Aids … you know… “sticky side down” and all that other technical medical stuff…LOL

We got a short break in the afternoon before heading over to our Regional Training Center for Company Evolutions.

Captain Todd Stone ( Station #6-A) is still on Light Duty recovering from a Roanoke Rampage Football injury and has been assigned to the Training Center. Captain Stone spent some time at the RTC earlier in his career and did a fantastic job …. he fell right back into it here in his old age.

We had some quality training tonight. Todd and I are good friend who go way back and I think a lot of him. I was obvious that he had thought about tonight’s operations and planned it so everyone got in some quality work as efficiently as possible (how a “Training Center” should work…right?)

Anyway, he had it set up so the Engines ( us and Engine #1) go some hydrant work, a FDC hook up as well as work advancing a 2 1/2″ hand line and stand pipe operations in a separate evolution.

At the same time, the ladder was able to throw multiple ground ladders as well as do some work from the aerial.

Like with the foam, we don’t attack with a 2 1/2″ line very often here in “The Noke” so the training was needed and fitting. They were timed exercises and we actually did very well.

We were joined by Engine #1, Ladder #1 and Medic #1 … aka.. “The BIG Show“.

During our short period of “down time” this afternoon, we had a couple visitors drop by…. Eddie Snyder and Melissa Farris.

Eddie is a Brother Firefighter from Staunton, Va and a member of IAFF L-3468. He runs out of Staunton’s Station #2.

Rhett and I first met Eddie while speaking at the Swoope VFD Annual Dinner.

Read my post “GUILTY“

Rhett and I always enjoy when Brothers, Sisters, fans and followers of our sites drop in for visits. I was a little pushed for time today but I was able to give Eddie and Melissa a tour of the station and a small piece of our 1st due. I hope they enjoyed their visit.

Typically, Rhett would have joined us and shown the two around to some of our other stations but the time factor, short notice etc didn’t allow for it this time. Maybe they will get up again and we can show them a little more of our Departments history etc.

He was able to score an Ironfiremen / Fire Critic Challenge Coin made exclusively by NM Coins LLC. Have you seen em yet? Got one? Well you’re in LUCK because they are currently ON SALE for 40% off over on Daily911 Deals.com .

You get 2 coins (ours and a “stock” firefighter coin) PLUS our CUSTOM patch for just $14.40 ! 2 coins and a patch for under $15.00!!! WHAT A BARGAIN!

40% off Ironfiremen / Fire Critic Coin-patch combo

We’re back on Sundayand I’ll check back in with ya then. Until I do …. stay SAFE and in House!

Captain Wines

Posted by Iron Firemen on May 11, 2012 • Filed under: fire-rescue-topics, firefighting-operations, fires, news, Training, training-fire-rescue-topics, Uncategorized • Tagged: brotherhood, Captain Willie Wines Jr, Challenge coins, Engine Company 13, Engine company operations, Fire Critic, Fire Department training, fire streams, firefighter pics, firefighters, foam, foam operations, hose and streams, IAFF, IAFF L-3468, Ironfiremen, Lt. Rhett Fleitz, National Firefighters Endowment, NFE, Roanoke Fire/EMS, Roanoke firefighters, Roanokefirefighters.com, Shane Parkins, Staunton Fire Department, Wooden ladders and Iron Firemen

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