As well as being a professional photographer I am also a certified Firefighter and member of a small rural volunteer fire department.     
     These photographs are just a sampling of a book on which I am working.  During my firefighter training, while in discussion with other firefighters, it became apparent that the Fire Service in the United States is very much taken for granted.  The perception is that everyone is paid and therefore it will always be there.  On the contrary, 75%-85% of the fire protection in the U.S. is provided by volunteer firefighters who take precious time from their work and families to give something back to their communities.
     I strongly feel that the public needs to look at the Fire Service as more than just the heroes of 9-11. They need to realize that there are thousands of people, just like themselves, who take time out their lives to try to make a difference.  I, myself, am a 50+ year old grandmother.  Anyone can make difference if they are aware and care.