We all take stuff for granted.  But there are some volunteers that are simply more important than others.  I could rank a list but I won’t.  There is only one on this list and that # 1 is Volunteer Fire Departments and the people that volunteer.

No, I have never been a volunteer fireman.  I should but I have always worked in other towns or been on the road too much to count on.  I’ve got some brother-in-laws that serve their time to help.  But, no, I have not.

Volunteer fire fighters are an integral part of Rural America.  They come a running to help their neighbor.  Always.  And for what?   A little bit of retirement.  And not enough insurance to cover their funeral if the worst happens.  But, yet, they still do the job.  This is truly what made America–some people that willingly face danger in order to protect others and with no reward for their efforts.  These volunteers may be the last bastion of true Americans–no politics, just take care of the job, your neighbors, your community–with little or no reward.  That’s how everything should be.

Friday, in Waynoka, there are two funeral services for two fallen volunteer fire fighters.  No, I did not teach either of them.  One was a few years older than my time there and the other a few years a younger.  Yes, I knew them both.  And I know a lot of their families.  Good, good people.  Exactly the kind that you would expect to be volunteer fire fighters.  Hard working, self-less, community-oriented and yeah, they knew a good time.

Prayers for the families and friends.  Please pray for all volunteer fire fighters as they do their un-paid jobs.

You can keep all these over-paid athletes, actors and musicians.  I’ll stick with the military personnel and the fire fighters.

In closing, I haven’t got any thing else to say except, “THANK YOU!”  To all of you.  For all that you do.

On a funnier note, listen to the Jerry Clower story of Uncle Versey and his family  saving the day by putting a fire out.  If you already know the story, you are smiling.  If you don’t know, well, you should.

GOD bless!   Home sweet home, wherever that may be.

Turn it up!!!!!!