As a child I dreamed at the siren's wail
of times when fires were fought with pails
even now, with techniques state of the art
extinguishing the blaze is a matter of the heart.

Working a fire is dangerous, then pleasing
dark embers mean the fire is through teasing
so we break down our gear and go on our way
ready for the next scene where our hoses we'll lay.

The training intense and experience a must
but just as important in God we trust
from the newest ladderman to the seasoned chief
our solemn duty to give our neighbors relief.

Rich with history, the fire service looks to the future
knowing a way you can help, even nurture:
will you find a moment to say a heartfelt prayer
for those of us concerned with your care?

1999 Timothy Christopher Cummings