This is going to be a very hard couple of days.

[polmaven]

a firefighter here in my hometown - Peabody, MA - died in the line of duty last Friday afternoon. He was 42 years old, and an 11 year veteran of the department. He was a very well known and well liked family man with a wife and 3 young children, the oldest being 8 years old.

He will be waked this afternoon, and his funeral is set for tomorrow morning. I plan to attend the wake, and will be with other friends lining the street in tribute tomorrow as the procession passes by from the funeral home to the church.

http://www.salemnews.com/local/x1477835236/Thousands-to-attend-funeral

In my many, many years in this city, I do not recall that we have ever before lost a firefighter in this manner.

James (Jim) Rice will be missed by many. He was, indeed, a hero.

RIP, Jim.

[geardaddy]

1. So sorry for you and your town's loss.

[graywarrior]

2. I've been thinking of him every day since he died

I'm right up the road from you & years ago lost a firefighter uncle to a fire in Lynn. Everytime a firefighter is taken, it's like a stab to the heart again.

Yeah, it's gonna be tough to deal with and I wish his family well.

[polmaven]

3. I am so very sorry

for you on the loss of your uncle. The real heros among us do seem to all be taken way to soon.

[graywarrior]

4. Thanks, but it sure as hell ain't about me.

It's about these brave people who put their lives on the line every damn day. They're the only ones crazy enough to run into a burning building while everyone else is getting the hell out.

[polmaven]

5. Have you seen this,

Last edited Thu Dec 29, 2011, 10:00 PM - Edit history (1)

from the PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS of MASSACHUSETTS?

It was posted on my FB page today, dedicated to "Brother James Rice - Peabody Local 925"

"LAST ALARM (Author unknown)

When I am called to Duty, God, wherever flames may rage;
Give me strength 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 give the best in me,
To guard my every neighborand protect their property.

And if, according to Your will, i should lose my life,
Please bless with Your protecting hand, my children and my wife.

I was in tears before I finished reading it.

[graywarrior]

6. Man, that's the truth.

I'm gonna put that on my fb page. Thanks.