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Regarding your recent publication of remarks by Ruth Richardson concerning the need for volunteer firefighters in Burlington (“Few answer the call to volunteer” May 28, 2008): I would like to express my gratitude for that eloquent support of the Burlington Fire Department.

These days, as we have for many decades, we who live and work in Burlington rely on volunteer firefighter/emergency medical technicians to protect our lives and our property.

At many fires, car accidents and life-threatening emergencies the responding crews are almost 100 percent volunteer. As a career firefighter at many of these incidents, I am continually impressed with the readiness of our volunteers to wade into any situation, however dreadful or dangerous it may be. I am frequently amazed at their willingness to follow without question whatever order I might give. The trust they display in me as a Chief Officer keeps me very humble.

I would like the folks we protect to understand that the personnel situation at the fire department is not by any means desperate. As they have for the entire 16 years I have been employed here, our firefighters, career and volunteer, will do whatever is required to get the job done well. That includes continuing to regularly place ourselves in harm’s way to fight your fire and save your life.

I sometimes wonder where we get these people ... these men and women who will be there quickly and compassionately whenever the call goes out. But, ensuring the next generation of volunteer firefighters isn’t guaranteed. That’s why volunteer recruitment and retention is so important to Burlington. That’s why we are asking our residents to step up and volunteer to work alongside our few career firefighters to make a true difference in the lives of those who have suddenly found themselves in big trouble.

Glen Staheli
Assistant Fire Chief
Burlington Fire Department