Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Co

"I need to speak about the darker truth about being a volunteer, and that is not about the things you see while on the job or the work that goes into it. This place and many others preach unity and family, but it is a lie. Once you've run out of use, you may as well be dead to them. I live across the country. I've been a volunteer at many places. And I can tell you it's the same anywhere you go, but I particularly want to speak about this place, and my dear family member, who was once a part of your company. You have no clue the amount of suffering and grief you have caused for them. They gave over five years of their time to you, and after an injury, they were forced to resign from active duties. They loved you people, they loved this company, they saw it as a second family. And despite many attempts to keep in touch with your so-called family there are only two people who have ever even replied to my cousin. For years they spoke so enthusiastically about how much you all meant to them, and now you've left them behind. The moment that they were injured you threw them to the curb. And they know, and I know, this is not the only instance. Older members, past chiefs, other firefighters who have moved on to bigger and better things, they are ignored too. You will cry at their funerals and then go have a beer afterwards and call it a day. And it's the same exact way for every place. My cousin has too good of a heart and doesn't hold any of you in contempt, but I do. You dedicate your lives to saving our communities, but you won't even save your own. You are not bad people, but certainly too self-centered to think about reaching out to others. Radio silence. So to anyone who thinks about becoming a volunteer, if you want to do this out of the goodness of your heart and to help your community, do it. But if you seek friendship and camaraderie, know that nothing lasts forever. Once you are deemed useless, you are nothing."

"I would like to thank the Harris Hill fire company. For the great service they provide for the community. You are truly appreciated. Especially with educating the community about having the proper smoke and carbon monoxide protection devises in your house."