Jerry McGhee's Page

Has the fire service changed?

That's the question I've asked myself over the last several months. My guys have asked the same questions about changes, leadership and tradition. My answer to my crew is simple.

Times always will change and we have to be prepared for it. But you prepare for the challenges in the classroom and the training grounds. Given our ever changing…

We've always heard people are born leaders, they aren't made.

I'm not sold on that theory.

There are some who have that natural ability to lead a group of men and women into battle, but what about those who have been molded over time due to training and dedication to the service?

As a Chief Officer, it's great to sit back and watch a member grow…

I often ask probationary firefighters one question when they have desires of joining the department.

Where were you on September 11, 2001?

With the opening of the 911 Museum, I've found myself looking at old videos and tapes of that day. Not only the events that unfolded in New York City, Washington and Pennsylvania, but in our response area.

September 11th for our department opened with a cool foggy morning that started off on Lens Creek Road in Hernshaw. The roadway is…

I'm confident our department isn't alone, but how many departments have to deal with that mutual aid department that knows everything?

They arrive on scene wearing Superman capes and teach you how to fight fire. Set up ventilation. Salvage and overhaul. They may even try to take command.

They may run 4 or 5 fires a year, but the only thing they know is this.

You're doing it wrong.

At the end of the day, you know how your department trains, works and understands…