A VALIANT CAREER By Jack Wright (11/71) Updated 1986

Most people are unaware of the origin or significance of the Maltese Cross as the traditional badge of the Fire Fighter.

During the crusades, the Knights of St. John from the island of Malta, were exposed to a new and dreadful weapon of war called Greek Fire, which was poured on them from the battlements as they stormed Turkish strongholds. Many Knights were burned to death while others were hideously disfigured, and still others performed many acts of heroism while giving succor to their stricken comrades.

A medal, using the Maltese Cross as a pattern, was awarded for gallantry to Knights that displayed conspicuous bravery. Over the years, the Maltese Cross has come to symbolize those groups that are dedicated to protecting others from the devastating effects of fire.

The men and women in today s Fire Service continue to honor their proud heritage.

The modern Fire Department is a complex organization of men, women and equipment, coordinated by an efficient administration. Most Fire Departments are organized into five major divisions; Administration, Firefighting, Training, Fire Prevention and Mechanical. Firefighting is only one of its many responsibilities.

Gone are the days when physical stamina and endurance were the principal requirements for a firefighter. While they must still possess these attributes, todays fire fighters are far more knowledgeable than their predecessors. They must have a sound educational background and proven learning ability before they are selected for Fire Service training. Once selected, they are exposed to rigorous training on a wide variety of academic and practical subjects. Much of what they are taught was known 50 years ago. Many of the situations with which they will have to cope involve hazards which demand professional ‘know how coupled with raw courage.

Todays highly specialized fire fighter recognizes that they must have a comprehensive knowledge of the equipment and appliances used to combat fire: about chemistry and physics if they are to understand the principles of combustion and fire behavior; about hydraulics if they are to make intelligent use of pumping apparatus and fire streams; about building construction and materials, fire prevention and fire protection codes, the law and its enforcement and the psychology of interpersonal relationships.

Since fire fighters live and work as a close knit team, good character and a congenial personality are very important. In selecting a candidate, we try to ensure that they have the temperament which will permit them to work in harmony with their fellow fire fighters.

Above all else, their sense of duty must transcend any selfish motivation they must recognize that their service, their profession, makes demands on them not found in other walks of life.

As a thoughtful individual, you will likely agree that it is most desirable to have an understanding of yourself and your attitude toward particular occupations. If you haven t already done so, you should ask yourself the following questions:

What do I want to do with my life?

What types of rewards do I desire from life?

What career will provide the most satisfaction?

What ability do I have to achieve my goals?

The Fire Service is an honorable profession, and if you have the necessary mental, physical and personal qualifications to become a fire fighter, you will enjoy a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that few other careers can match.

What is there about a job in the Fire Service that brings about these feelings of pride and satisfaction, and why does it appeal so strongly to ambitious young men and women?

These questions can probably be best answered by asking yet another question; What does an ambitious young man or woman want in a job?

Most of us who work for a living want a job where ability and personal effort receive recognition and where we have equal opportunity with other employees to achieve our goals. We also like to feel that our job fulfills an important function.

In most Fire Departments, promotions to higher ranks are made from within the Department and by competitive examination only. This is where ability, industry and perseverance are recognized - it isn't who you know that counts but what you know, and how well you can apply it.

Regular in-service training is provided on a continuing basis after a new candidate is assigned to the crews on completion of their induction training. Members have ample opportunity and facilities for developing academic knowledge and practical skills. Of course, members are encouraged to supplement normal training with specialized courses in leadership and other related fields.

You have taken the first step on a totally new career - the rewards and satisfactions can be yours to enjoy in fullest measure if you remember that you only get out of a job what you are willing to put into it.

Today's Fire Service offers you a valiant career!

* Jack Wright was with the North York Fire Department from 1955 to 1982, 27 years. Of the 27 years on the department, Jack spent 24 of them in their Training Division. He retired Chief of the Training Division.