Operating in the hostile environment of fire leaves a margin of error so small that the sacrifice is great. Last year, in the North America alone, firefighters laid 112 of their gallant brothers and sisters to rest after they made the supreme sacrifice in the performance of their duty. It is difficult in the age of mass media entertainment to recount the actions of the men and women we honor today in a way to do them justice. Special effects tend to jade us, to a point where many of us gloss over true life and death drama for the seemingly more glamorous television imagery. Yet, if you ever wondered where today's real heroes are, take the time to read the accounts listed in this unique electronic essay.
Most people cultivate a feeling of remoteness when they consider fire.
Yet, when confronted with the primeval ferocity of it, we are simultaneously terrified and fascinated. Today, we shall take you beyond terse media accounts of fire, rescue and EMS, and into the lives of those who place themselves between you and danger. Ever since the formation of the first fire brigade in ancient Rome, the ranks have swelled proudly with examples of courage, compassion, and selfless dedication. You'll find that these traditions have continued to this very moment in time. Firefighters from around the World have joined together in this forum, because of a common bond they share, concern for their fellow man.