Reviewing our mission
Rick Futrell
Police-Fire-Paramedic
Clark County Fire District No. 11
Battleground, Washington
I am a 22-year veteran of emergency medical services; I have been a police officer for 13 years and a firefighter/paramedic for 16 years. I know the pain and sorrow my fellow comrades go through. I know we are our own worst critics. Later, we wonder, “Could I have done it better?” I dedicate the following letter to all who strived so hard to save lives at that massive explosion in Oklahoma City.
STARS OF LIFE
OKLAHOMA
How can I contribute to our mission of providing superior prehospital care? Some people would answer: ODevelop goals or objectives, create new strategies such as improved scene management, expand our resources, reach outward toward new technology, improve teamwork to better suit the needs of those we serve, or network worldwide so that we would stay attuned to current education and training.O Others might say we need to enhance our communication skills or increase productivity.
I say, OThe choices we make dictate the lives we save.O
Recently, an old man came up to me and said I was the one who resuscitated him back to life. In his arms, he held a young child. He introduced this child to me, saying, OThis is my granddaughter. God allowed me to live so we could meet and know one another. Thank you.O
Our missions day to day are to help those in need, to apply no boundaries, and to be prejudiced toward no one:
Today I helped an old woman get back in her wheelchair.
Today I had a drunk spit in my face.
Today I held a lifeless baby in my arms.
Today I restrained a violent (psychiatric) man.
Today I cried for the loss of life I so desperately tried to save.
Today I delivered a baby boy and watched his mother smile.
How can I contribute to the mission of emergency service? By doing just what I?m doing. Being that guardian angel.
Rick Futrell
Police-Fire-Paramedic
Clark County Fire District No. 11
Battleground, Washington
