More Than A Race-Workout #8: For Lt. Arlie "Pooh" Hill, Whitley City FD (LODD-10/27/2014)

Workout #8

Today was probably one of the best fall days we'll experience here in East Central Indiana. In fact, the last few days have led most of us to believe this is our "Indian Summer". I can't imagine being anywhere else tonight other than outside. I was fortunate enough to run while the sun was setting and even here in Small Town Indiana, the sunsets are amazing. I just kept thinking these are the things we take for granted every day. It's easy to get caught up in our daily activities and forget all that is out there just waiting for us to enjoy.

My run was a little over 2 miles tonight and I walked about 3miles. My time was pretty typical. It felt good to be moving again, because I've been sick for the last 10 days. I was ready to do something besides sleep. While the Indy Mini is still months away, I need to log as many miles as my body will allow! 

Lt. Arlie "Pooh" Hill, - Whitley City Fire Department - Whitley City, Kentucky

As you know each run is dedicated to a hero -- a law enforcement officer, a firefighter, or an EMS worker who has died in the line of duty. It was incredibly easy to decide who I would run for this afternoon. Lt. Arlie, "Pooh" Hill of the Whitley City Fire Department in Whitley City, Kentucky gave his life in the line of duty one year ago today, (10/27/2013). I was fortunate to learn much about Pooh while spending nearly two months with his family and friends at the University of Cincinnati Hospital. I dedicate my run tonight to a man who touched my life through his incredible determination and selflessness.

On August 30, 2013, 37 year old Arlie "Pooh" Hill and his brother-in-law, Adam Stephens, rushed to help put out a blaze that had ignited at a house down the street from where they were socializing in the Whitley City area. As the men searched the home, Hill became trapped in a "flashover" in the living room area. Stephens, a fellow firefighter in Whitley City, struggled to get to Hill but was eventually able to pull him from the home. 

Pooh was airlifted to the University of Cincinnati Burn Center where he spent 59 days fighting for his life. It was during those days that many of us who were present learned the power of prayer and the true meaning of brotherhood. Pooh eventually succumbed to his injuries on 10/27/2013, and even though he never said a word or moved a muscle, he taught us how to be courageous, work as a team and understand what faith looks and feels like. He not only gave his life in the line of duty, he taught all of us how to be better people. I pray his family, department & community will someday know how their hero touched so many.

The following was taken from the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend Biography. Pooh was honored this year in Emmitsburg, Maryland. There is still so much to learn from this man. I am forever grateful for his service and sacrifice.


We all have friends, but have you ever asked yourself what exactly is a friend? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a friend is defined as someone who you like and enjoy being with; a person who helps or supports someone or something. A friend is someone who is attached to another by affection or esteem, one that is not hostile, and one who is a favored companion.

On November 7, 1975 one of the greatest friends a person could have was born into the world, Lt. Arlie Hill III, better known as "Pooh". Pooh was born in Somerset, Kentucky to Arlie Hill, Jr. and Ruth (Foster) Hill. On March 11, 2000 he was united in marriage to Sharen (Hamlin) Hill. Together they had two children, Arlie "Kyle" Hill and Taylor Grace Hill.

Pooh was a unique person that never met a stranger, but always making a friend. He could turn anyone's day around with a simple joke or remark. Those who knew him instantly loved him. Pooh made a career as a CNA for the Southfork Medical Clinic and volunteered for the Whitley City Fire Department for over 12 years. He enjoyed helping his community and was well known for being involved in helping those around him.

During his time with the fire department, Pooh was involved in several activities and received numerous training certificates as a first responder through both the fire department and EMS. Pooh was the guy in the crowd that just made life better. Many can recall the stress and pressure of training and Pooh would immediately find the light of the situation, turning any bad time into a more relaxed one. He had pride about making others laugh by poking fun or teasing.

The people of McCreary County quickly learned Pooh’s sense of humor when he began working in the medical field through SouthFork as well as McCreary EMS when he was training to become an EMT. Patients recall their visits into the triage office where Pooh would be the friendly face that made the experience one that everyone remembered. He thought if he wasn’t giving you a hard time and making you smile, he wasn’t doing his job.

Although he was a fantastic person within his community, Pooh's pride and joy was within his home. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family and his children. Pooh was a vivid outdoorsman. He enjoyed getting to hunt, fish, and ride his motorcycle with his kids. Pooh was a laid back person, never sweating the small stuff, but enjoying everything life had to offer. He was a simple man and content being who he was, a friend that we all miss and love dearly.

  

More Than A Race-Workout #7: For Crew Chief Zachary VanderGriend, Neptune Aviation (LODD-09/01/2008)

Workout #7

Needless to say, it's been awhile since I've been able to blog. Part of my job requires me to travel to different parts of Indiana and Kentucky, responding to LODDs or public safety workers who are critically injured in the line of duty. While I have been training, it's mostly taken place on a treadmill inside a tiny gym at a hotel. I would prefer my dedicated workouts happen outside of a gym (at least while it's nice outside). I want people to see the writing on my arms and ask what it is...I want to tell these heroes' stories. It's up to us to keep the memory and spirit, as well as the service of these amazing men and women alive. I am determined to do that!

Tonight, I ran a little over two miles here in Lynn. My first mile was pretty good...not much different than my last posted mile time. The second mile...not such a great time. The good news is that I have lots of room for improvement and plenty of time to get better. I promise you, I WILL GET BETTER!! :)  

 

Crew Chief Zachary VanderGriend, Neptune Aviation, (LODD-09/01/2008)

I had the pleasure of meeting Marci VanderGriend, Zachary's mother, this past May at the National Fallen Firefighters Survivors Weekend in Clayton, Missouri. Marci has the most amazing smile and her heart is just as big. I met her husband, Steve there, as well. He was just as kind and compassionate as Marci, with just as big of a smile. These two people welcomed me and immediately made me feel comfortable around them. They asked about my dad and genuinely listened as I shared his story. This is the beauty of meeting and spending time with other survivors. One of our favorite things to do is hear about each others' loved ones. It's a bond I just can't describe.

I listened as both Marci and Steve talked about their son, Zach. I could sense how incredibly proud they were. It wasn't until Marci sent me this information about Zach that I could so easily see that he was a mirror of the two of them. This young man was indeed special. He genuinely loved serving and giving back. It was an honor to run for Zachary VanderGriend this evening. Please take some time and get to know him a little better! 

The following was written by Zachary's mother, Marci VanderGriend:

Zachary was born on June 1, 1983. From the age of two, Zach wanted to fly and become a missionary pilot. God put Zachary in locations where the right people were in place to mentor him and help with his dream of flight. Early on, Zach learned how to handle tools from his ‘PopPop’ Jake. As he grew, Zach was involved in museum work as a docent, detailer and aircraft restorer; there his love of old warbirds and radial engines grew.

Zach then became acquainted with EAA 579 and their Young Eagle program. Zach never missed a ‘free flight’ day. He spent many hours volunteering, giving tours of the B-17, grilling burgers and working as lineman during free flight days. Zach was awarded a scholarship to attend the EAA’s Air Academy in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He was given the Presidential Youth Service Award at the unveiling of the Butch O’Hare memorial at O’Hare Airport, an aircraft Zach helped restore. Zach received his private pilot’s license six weeks after he started training and then began giving free flights to children, his little sister, Andriana, being his first passenger. Because of Zach’s willingness to give back and his love of service, he was given the first ever Eagle Award by EAA 579.

Zach attended Moody Bible Institute, where he served as president of the aviation club; Moody School of Aviation; Spokane Community College; and Grace University in Omaha, Nebraska. Zach became an airframe and power plant mechanic and earned his degree in business aviation. From the time Zach could work, he was around the aviation community; working at detailing war birds and corporate jets, lineman at several fixed base operations across the country, as well as an A&P mechanic.

Zach started his dream job on Memorial Day 2008. It was at Neptune Aviation where Zach’s love of people, service and history all came together. He was called to fight fires on August 1, 2008, and was called home en route to the Smitty Fire in California on September 1, 2008.

Zach loved life; he was passionate about his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved his family and adored his little sister. He enjoyed working; whether it was restoring a car or an airplane, Zach loved to "turn wrenches." He loved to travel, fish, hunt, read, ski, and he always enjoyed a good laugh. A talented musician and actor, Zach loved people; he had friends of every age all over the world. He was a joy to be with, and his smile could light up a room. Zach loved to fly because it was there he felt closest to God. Zach was compassionate and generous to a fault. He was loyal, energetic, a man of integrity. He will always be loved.

More Than A Race-Workout #6: For Town Marshal George Thomas, Pineville Police Department, Pineville, KY (LODD-07/30/1887)

(From Wednesday, July 30, 2014)

Workout #6
Tonight's run was a little different than the first five because I didn't run alone.  My two nieces (9 years old and 14 years old) decided they wanted to run with me.  Their mom (my sister in law) even decided to get in on the fun!  

So as we set off, we actually started together, but it didn't take long for my 9 year old niece, Kaibre, to race to the front.  She could possibly be more competitive than I am/was.  My other niece, Morgan, sister in law, Jami and I all stayed together for the first .5 mile and then, I lost Morgan and Jami.  By the time we finished I was running by myself.  Lol.  Kaibre beat us all...pretty sure that girl runs about a 7 minute mile and I had no idea where the other two were.  I ran about 11:30 MM for my 2 miles tonight.  Turns out Morgan and Jami hid in the cornfield while we were running to "shorten" their run time! Never a dull moment with those guys!

My nieces ran for their Papaw Ron/Grandpa Ron (my dad). Here are our pics

 


Town Marshal George Thomas, Pineville PD, (LODD-07/30/1887)

My workouts so far have been dedicated to individuals whose family I have met in the last few years. Tonight I opted to run for someone I had never met nor did I know any of his family.  I ran for Town Marshal George Thomas of the Pineville Police Department and he died in the line of duty on July 30, 1887. Yes, you read that correctly.  127 years ago this man gave his life in the line of duty.

Town Marshal George Thomas was shot and killed while riding with a posse attempting to arrest a group of men who had shot up a home as part of a long standing feud.The posse arrived at the location in the Yellow Fork section of Bell County, Kentucky during the night, but the suspects had been warned and had been able to escape. The posse members stayed at a local home with the intent of continuing the search in the morning.

At approximately 10:00 am, a man involved in the feud arrived at the home and started arguing with the homeowner and the posse. As he rode away he attempted to shoot at the posse but his gun jammed. Several posse members fired at him, and then moments later several suspects opened fire from hidden locations in adjacent cornfields surrounding the house.

Town Marshal Thomas was shot once in the chest and killed. The other posse members were able to escape. Two men were eventually arrested and charged in connection with Town Marshal Thomas' murder. Town Marshal Thomas was survived by his wife and several brothers.

I don't know any specific information about Marshal Thomas. I don't know what he enjoyed doing in his spare time. I have no idea how long he was married or where he grew up.  I have a feeling he was like many of the other heroes I've described so far. I'm sure he was a very selfless individual who loved to serve his community. It appears he wanted his city to be fair and free of those who threatened others' safety and freedom.  

Individuals like Town Marshal George Thomas are the epitome of why I'm running for these heroes.  Is it more interesting when I have a personal connection to the family? Maybe, but this man gave his life just like all the others.  He went to work every day knowing his life may be threatened. And 127 years later, we can still hold his service and sacrifice high. We can recognize him for his efforts and make sure that others are aware of all that he did.  I imagine that the descendants of his family would be proud to know that we are still recognizing his sacrifice, and that is what we should continue to do.  

I think that's another reason I am so impressed with organizations like the one I work for, Supporting Heroes.  They continue to recognize those who've died in the line of duty. They continue to help families of those who've died in the line of duty and make sure the memories of their loved ones are never lost.  They are literally living the very message of what this blog is about. 

I can assure you that as long as I am here, I will keep my dad's memory, as well as other heroes' spirit and sacrifice alive. But what happens when I'm gone?  Who will continue doing this?  Will there be individuals 127 years from now who recognize my dad and all that he did??  I sure hope so. People like him, as well as Town Marshal George Thomas deserve to be recognized forever, and we should all do whatever it takes to make that happen. 

More Than A Race-Workout #5: For Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer, LaGrange County EMS, LaGrange Indiana (LODD-01/31/14)

You know that feeling you get the night before Christmas? You can't wait for the day to get here...the excitement has been building as the day gets closer. Well, that's how I felt tonight as I was driving home from my run to write this blog. I couldn't wait to share everything with you.  I've had three days off, and it feels like an eternity. These blogs mean a lot to me. Not only am I sharing my progress and workouts, but I am sharing these heroes with all of you.

My Workout
Tonight I opted to "get out of town" for my run. I wanted a change of scenery. Since I was running for Paramedic Garry Hammer, a man who loved the outdoors, as well as animals, I thought this would be the perfect night to begin running in the country. It's pretty incredible to run in the middle of nowhere...no houses, no cars, no people, no noise. Just me, my thoughts and the wildlife. 


I completed my three miles with an average of 11:15MM, but it was what happened during my run that made this night so special. When I first started, I prayed I would see some deer. Paramedic Hammer was a hunter; he loved it, and I'll share more about that below.  My dad was also an avid hunter, especially deer. After he passed, my family and I adopted the idea that when a deer or deer randomly show(s) up, that's a sign that Dad is thinking of us or sending us support or love or whatever we may need at the time. I have story after story of times when I was about to fall apart and a deer would cross in front of me. It was as if my dad was patting me on the shoulder, saying, "Pick your head up...you can do this. I've got your back."  So, my desire to see a deer tonight was more than just enjoying nature, it was personal, too.

As I  finished 2.5 miles without seeing a deer or even a trace of one, I started to get a little disappointed.  But just that quick, a buck crossed right in front of me. I couldn't have planned it better. I watched him move to the edge of the corn field, where I noticed there were two more, a doe and what looked like a fawn or yearling. It was so PERFECT. The buck just watched me.  I continued to run with a huge grin and he just stared.  After a few seconds, he high-tailed it to the back of the field w/ the two others. Yes, I became emotional and had to stop for a couple seconds to wipe my eyes.  It's funny how the little things always have the most meaning.  I'm sure Paramedic Hammer was watching over me tonight. And I'd like to think maybe Dad was standing somewhere up there with him, too.




Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer, La Grange County EMS  (LODD-1/31/14)

Tonight's run was dedicated to Paramedic Gerald "Garry" Hammer.  Since part of my job includes responding to LODDs (Line of Duty Deaths) in both Indiana and Kentucky, I was blessed to meet and spend time with the Hammer family. I instantly felt close to them. I think we share similar backgrounds and definitely a similar sense of humor! But what stood out to me most was the love and compassion they shared with each other and toward others. This is one of the closest families I have ever met; they have amazing hearts. They welcomed me into their lives and allowed me to walk with them in their painful journey. They comforted me as I cried with them and made sure to share a few laughs with me, as well...sometimes at my expense! :) I have no doubt that Garry helped encourage this kind of compassion in his children. And while I wish we could have met for a different reason, I am so proud to call all of them my friends. Running for Garry was an honor tonight. I look forward to running for him in May, as well! 

Paramedic Hammer was indeed a dedicated man of public safety. He was a Critical Care Paramedic with LaGrange, Noble and DeKalb Co. EMS for 39 years. He also worked as a Deputy Coroner with LaGrange and Noble Co for approximately 10 years. He was a SWAT Medic for Noble and LaGrange Counties for approximately 10 years, a Primary Instructor for EMS for almost 30 years and on the District #3 Task Force for Home Land Security serving with the Search and Rescue Dogs. Garry served on the EMS Education Board for the State of Indiana and on the Critical Incident Debriefing Team. To say he loved to serve would be an understatement. 

It is easy to see that public safety was a large part of his life, especially EMS. He would do anything necessary to ensure that others were cared for in the best way possible. He loved to teach and share his great knowledge of medicine. Some of his students have commented that his his teaching style differed from a typical classroom setting, but regardless, it was effective. Those same students learned a great deal from him. Almost anyone who participated in one of his classes would comment that his "was the best class yet" and they had "never learned so much".  Garry had many gifts, but one of those was most obviously sharing his knowledge with others, helping them to be as thorough and successful as he was in EMS.

While EMS was certainly important to him, he had another passion. He loved to hunt deer. His son Jeremy shared a very special story and memory with me:
     "He had never been hunting before, so I offered to take him with me. That one time was all it took; he was fascinated. I remember a little 5 point buck standing 5 feet from him, no clue that Dad was there. It was awesome to see his reaction. I knew instantly he was hooked. I loved being able to share that with him. It is a memory I will always cherish." 

Besides hunting, Paramedic Hammer loved his dogs. He and his wife Pam began training them in 2010. Garry was the handler for dogs that performed search work in human remains detection. His dogs took up a lot of his "extra" time, but he enjoyed every minute with them. They were like his kids. As I looked at pictures of him and his dogs, it was easy to see the strong relationship the shared.

Sadly, Paramedic Hammer suffered a fatal heart attack on January 31, 2014 just minutes after arriving home from a 12-hour overnight shift. He had made emergency responses during his tour of duty, including a 55-minute emergency transport from LaGrange to Fort Wayne. He has touched the lives of  so many in his short time here with us.  Without a doubt, he will be missed.

Garry, you sure are missed, but I'm certain you are watching over your family and fellow colleagues, proudly smiling at all of their accomplishments.

 

 

 

More Than A Race-Workout #4: For Frank Denzinger, Floyd County Sheriff's Department-New Albany, Indiana (LODD-06-18-07)

WORKOUT #4
Tonight I completed my fourth workout for the Mini-Marathon and I accomplished more than adding mileage. Typically, this early in the game, I try to add a mile or .5 mile each week, but since I felt good yesterday and I'm taking Sat and Sunday off, I opted to go for more tonight. When I reached the 1.5 mile mark, I started thinking maybe 2 miles was enough. I had almost talked myself into stopping when I realized, this training isn't just about my body. This training is for my mind, too. (Yes, that's a scary thought and yes, I know I need it!!)

I have to learn to push myself and keep going when my mind doesn't think it can.  Frankly it's been a long time since I've done that. Trust me when I tell you that it's easy to fall into the trap of giving up when you think you're done or can't go any further. The reality, at least for me is that my body is capable of much more than I "think". So tonight when my mind was telling me I should probably stop, I thought about all of these heroes and their families, and I pushed on with no problems. Proof that sometimes it is a mind over matter issue.  I was able to complete 3.25 miles at a pace of about 11:30MM.  (It's not about time right now, just building stamina) In addition to that I walked 1.5 miles after I ran.   

 

Officer Frank Denzinger - LODD (06/18/07) 
Tonight's run is dedicated to Frank Denzinger of the Floyd County Sheriff's Department. Officer Denzinger served with the Floyd County Sheriff's Department for four years. He was survived by his wife, Tara, 2-year-old daughter, Avery, his parents and two sisters. He was only 32 years old at the time of his death.

I contacted Frank's wife to gather information about him. I first met Tara when my dad died in September, 2010. Within hours of my dad's passing, she was there helping my mom deal with those initial feelings of shock and disbelief. Afterall, no one understands that pain better than another survivor. She was a godsend to my entire family.  And since that awful week, I've been able to spend time with Tara at different events and activities. She's one of the most genuine people I've ever met, and I'm blessed to call her a friend.

As you read and learn about Officer Denzinger, I think you'll see what an amazing man he was and how incredibly connected he was to his family. It was an honor to run for him tonight.

Frank Denzinger was an extremely witty and funny guy with many hobbies and interests. It seemed he was always cracking jokes and just generally very fun and easy to be around. He loved to read and watch shows about Muscle Cars and was very interested in history, particularly World War II. He loved the West and had hoped to travel out west with Avery (his daughter) just like he did with his father. His favorite author was Louis L'amour and he owned almost every single one of his books. He appreciated the photography of Ansel Adams - all nods to the West.  And Frank especially appreciated those who farmed.  He often said that not enough credit was given to the farmer.  He believed they kept America thriving. 

Officer Denzinger was a loyal man, especially to his friends. He was always there when they needed him and spent a fair amount of time with his closest friends. He wasn't a sports guy AT ALL but did run every night when he got home from work. He and a few other officers who were also friends would meet at the local middle school or high school and run on the track.

Frank Denzinger was extremely committed to his family. He was very close to his parents, sisters and his nephews. He often went to the farm where his parents built a home (previously his grandparents had a home on the same land) and spent time riding 4 wheelers and shooting, as well as just spending time with his family. In addition, he was a fine son in law and brother in law and became a father figure to Tara's nephew, Dalton. He remained very involved in Dalton's life and treated him like one of his own.

Frank Denzinger was an extremely committed father. He established a relationship with Avery VERY early and his connection to her was unbelievably strong.  While Tara was pregnant, he would often speak to her stomach, and almost immediately Avery would turn toward Frank's voice. In addition, before she was born, Avery would always wake before 10pm so that she could "hear" her daddy and then go back to sleep, almost as if her day was not done or her world not complete if he was not there at the end of the night.

Officer Denzinger was a very hands on father. For example, when he would come home from work, he,Tara and Avery would tell the moon and stars good night together. And later, while Tara was attending school, he kept Avery until he dropped her off to go to work. He often spoke of of watching her grow and go to school. He looked forward to teaching her to shoot and wondered if she would be Floyd County's first female Sniper. He admitted that when he thought about the day he would give her away to her husband, he knew it would break his heart. 

Tara described Frank as a very supportive husband. He was a care taker and definitely protective. He was supportive and a good leader for their family. He wasn't the type who brought home flowers, but instead he took her to pick out her favorite rose bushes to grow at home so she could always have flowers.

In addition to being a committed father and supportive husband, Frank Denzinger was also a dedicated officer. He was well-liked and those who knew him best could describe him as meticulous. For example, he cleaned his patrol car tires with a toothbrush. He loved working traffic, including many Operation Pullovers. And even though he initially accepted a position with the Indiana State Police, his heart was always in Floyd County, his home county.  He loved working there and genuinely loved his brothers in uniform. He always knew he was home when he was there.

Officer Frank Denzinger was shot and killed when he and another officer responded to a domestic disturbance call on June 18, 2007.  The officers responded to a report of a confrontation between a mother and her son in the 6000 block of Rachel Court in Georgetown at about 6:30 pm. Upon their arrival, while they were conversing with the mother in the driveway, her 15-year-old son ambushed both officers from an upstairs window of the residence.

The suspect, who was using a high-powered, World War II relic M-1 Garand rifle, struck Officer Denzinger with a second round between the side panels of his bullet-resistant vest, before the other officer was able to return fire into the home. Officer Denzinger was transported to University Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, where he succumbed to his wounds. The other officer was seriously wounded, but survived. The suspect was found six hours later inside the residence having committed suicide.

There isn't a day that goes by that Frank is not missed by his family, friends and department. 

More Than A Race-Workout #3: For Dana Schoolman, Ashkum Fire Department, Illinois (LODD-11-6-88)

Workout #3

Tonight I completed my third workout for the Mini-Marathon. I ran 2.5 miles at a pace of 11:00MM.  I also walked about 3 miles. Once again, I stayed here in town with a path I knew.  Once I feel a little more sure of my stamina, I'll get out and run where there's some scenery! :) My legs finally felt pretty good throughout and not nearly as sore as the last two days. (See, I told you I was out of shape!) I actually felt like I could've run a couple more miles, but I know better than to push my luck! No point in getting injured this early!

Firefighter Dana Schoolman - LODD 11/6/88

I met the widow of tonight's honored hero during the National Fallen Firefighters Survivors Conference this past May in St. Louis.  Anne Schoolman was so very nice to me.  Like the rest of us, she misses her husband/hero every day. He was a huge part of her life, as well as their children's lives.  It was my honor to train for Firefighter Dana Schoolman this evening. Please read about him below.  

If you've followed my blogs so far, I'm sure you're starting to see a pattern with these men and women. They are all some of the most selfless people anyone has ever met. Please don't forget their sacrifice.

Firefighter Dana Schoolman was a 6 year volunteer/member of the Ashkum Township Fire Protection District and served as a Firefighter and EMT-ID. He was born January 2, 1957 and was only 31 years old at the time of his death. Firefighter Schoolman was killed when he lost control of his car and struck a utility pole. He was enroute from his home to an ambulance call in a nearby city. Illinois State Police said area roads were wet at the time of the accident. Snow and sleet had been falling throughout the early morning hours.

Anne and Dana Schoolman were married on April 15, 1978. They have two children, Kellie (who I had the pleasure of meeting at the NFFF Survivor Conference in St. Louis) and Cole who is a redhead just like his dad. At the time of Dana's death, Kellie (their daughter) was six and Cole (their son) was three. Besides his family, Dana's greatest love was the fire department. He also enjoyed hunting and was a certified hunting safety instructor for the Illinois DEPT of conservation. His wife, Anne made the following comment about Dana, "He was the most loving, caring person and would do anything for anyone."

At the time of Dana's death, Ashkum Fire Chief Michael O' Brien made the following statement, "His dedication is going to be missed. In our society, people like Dana are starting to become rare. I think all my people are above standard, but Dana was far above that. Dana always had a lot of interest in service, and was always wanting to get more schooling, which is something we encourage."

My Thoughts

As I finish my third blog about a third hero with hundreds and thousands that remain to be written about, I find myself wondering who will tell those stories? Who will tell the stories of the heroes I don't have a chance to share? Who is making sure that we don't forget these men and women who sacrificed days, holidays, vacations, and ultimately their lives to serve people just like you and me? Do I have a personal connection? SURE...but why does it take that before others will step up and recognize these men and women who have risked it all? I know it's not easy to read or listen to how someone's life was cut short. I know you might get emotional. BUT for one minute stop and think about how emotional these families are when their loved one is no longer at the dinner table every evening? Or how emotional Jerri Johnson is when she thinks about what would be her son's wedding day? I guess I just don't think it's asking too much for others to do the research and get to know some of these heroes and their families. Or better yet, why not step forward and support the families who will be affected by a tragedy just like Dana's. Unfortunately, it will happen again.

More Than A Race-Workout #2: For Jeremy Tighe, McCutchanville Fire Department (LODD-2/22/2012)

Workout # 2 is complete, but not without a little rain!  I live in east central Indiana and today was a wet one. No worries, though. I set out on another short run and completed it w/ a smile.  I did a total of 4 miles...2 running and 2 walking. Just trying to get back into the groove. My legs were sore from yesterday, and I know I've got a good 3 weeks before I actually can relax while I'm out there.  I must admit that running in honor of those who've died in the line of duty helps immensely. 

 Today's miles still averaged near 11 minutes each...not good, but I know it will get better. The goal isn't about time for me. The goal is about being healthy and completing this race proud of the work I've put in along the way, as well as making sure everyone understands the importance of those who work in public safety.  The individuals who serve us (police, fire, and EMS) put their lives on the line every day. They do so without thinking twice and without the promise of a hefty paycheck. They do it because they love it and are happiest when helping others. 

My workout today was dedicated to Jeremy Tighe from the McCutchanville Fire Department near Evansville, IN.  He passed away in the line of duty Wednesday, February 22, 2012.  He was born on February 23, 1993, in Bedford, Ohio.  Jeremy worked for the City of Evansville as a lifeguard since the age of 15.  He graduated Central High School in 2011, where he was on the swim team.  He was very involved with Young Life serving as a mentor.  Jeremy started with McCutchanville Fire Department in 2010.  He was Indiana State Certified Firefighter I, II, State Certified First Responder, State Certified EMT and member of the Indiana Volunteer Fireman's Association.  Jeremy was an avid firefighter; he lived at the firehouse and was very active in the day to day activities of the McCutchanville Fire Department.  He put everyone else in front of himself and everyone who knew Jeremy loved him. 

I've been honored to spend time with Jeremy's family on several occasions. There is no doubt they miss their son, brother, and friend. The following statement is from his mother, Jerri,
"My son Jeremy was very well rounded. He loved going to see local bands and loved being with friends. He decided at age 4 to be a fireman and lived his dream."

Firefighter Tighe was a passenger in a fire apparatus returning to quarters after a call. The apparatus slipped off the roadway, partially overturned, and struck a utility pole. Firefighter Tighe suffered fatal injuries. The driver of the apparatus was transported to a local hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Jeremy was only 18 years old when he died in the line of duty, one day before his 19th birthday...much too young to leave us.

If you'd like to leave a tribute or say a few words in honor of Jeremy, you can do so here. I can assure that family members appreciate your support very much.