a good friend of the family has passed away earlier this morning. He was the fire chief of the fire station where I live. And today a dark cloud has cast it's shadow upon the family. It would be his last call that he would answer.

As I sit here and type this journal, I have come to be thankful for what I have in life especially when it comes to my father who is also a firefighter for 30 years. Risking everything and anything to make sure that everyone is protected and safe from even the smallest of fires. I can't believe that he is gone (not my father..).

I grew up with his son Robbie who is now a firefighter. (Things run through our veins as you would call it)

I had just gotten off the phone with my dad who is at the hall with the rest of the firefighters from all over Chatham-kent that have come to pay their respects to their fallen brother.

If any of you who read this think that this is pretty sappy, then go somewheres else and leave me to my thoughts.

Funeral arrangements are being made soon, as I would like to pay my respects to the family that I have grown up with.

A Fireman's Prayer

I leave you all now with a poem that my dad has hanging on the wall in the family room.

When I am called to duty, God,

Whenever flames may rage;

Give me strength to save some life,

Whatever be its age.

Help me embrace a little child

Before it is too late

Or save an older person

From the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert

And hear the weakest shout,

And quickly and efficiently

To put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling

And to give the best in me

To guard my every neighbor

And protect his property.

And if, according to my fate,

I am to lose my life,

Please bless with your protecting

My children and my wife.

- Miko

RIP BOB THIBERT
FIRE CHIEF
STATION 19
TILBURY