On Wednesday night, I learned, as I am sure many of you did, of the tragedy at Reagan National Airport involving a commercial airliner and a military helicopter. This crash took the lives of sixty-four people on the airliner and three on the helicopter. As I attempted to sleep last night, I could not help but think of the horror those poor souls experienced.
Today, the news revealed added details about the victims involved in the incident. As first responders, we learn in our own lives how events like this invade our minds and hearts, reminding us of so many other tragedies we have experienced in our careers. Regardless of the size of your department and whether paid or volunteer, we must work hard to prepare ourselves for these terrible events. Support each other, lend a shoulder, and remember you can make a difference.
There is no magic in this, my friends, as we simply need to continue to prepare ourselves to be there for one another. My mind kept taking me back to the three hundred emergency services people responding to this incident and charged with the responsibility of hoping to rescue the victims. Obviously, the circumstances kept them from making any rescues but instead looking in the dark night and frigid water for any signs of a survivor. These first responders will reflect far into the future on missed opportunities, and it is important to remember our duty to support them.
Take care of yourselves and keep looking out for each other.
Gerald