As Americans, we are all one, banded together. When one suffers, we all suffer.

Training is key in this whole field. There's always the day-to-day learning on how to work the pumps and the ladders, but there are ongoing requirements from the federal government and the state. Training is a never-ending process for us.

Cal was a close friend. He has done a lot of good things over the past three years (as chief) ... filling his shoes will be a big undertaking.

This is no small potatoes. It won't be pretty.

E Pluribus Unum comes to mind. Out of many, one.

Everyone?s afraid of something. Everyone?s afraid of the unknown. But they need the courage to try.