| The month of March celebrates the contributions made by women in fire fighting industry and EMS |
"Since 1981, this nation has recognized the month of March as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions made by all women to this great nation of ours. I am honored to join with many others in recognizing the countless and unselfish acts of so many women serving their communities in fire and emergency medical services (EMS) organizations as firefighters and emergency medical technicians.
Since women have joined the ranks of the American Fire Service as career and volunteer members, the quality and richness of our culture and honorable profession has been truly enhanced. Their contributions to our previously male-dominated industry have been transforming and compelling in departments and communities across this nation. It has been my observation first hand, both as a metropolitan fire chief and now as the U.S. Fire Administrator, that the fire service is truly a better service provider today in part because of the many women who have heard this special calling to serve their communities.
Every day, these highly trained women are engaged in firefighting, EMS and many special operations as valued participants standing elbow-to-elbow alongside their fellow crew members. Women serving as company and chief fire officers make significant life safety contributions to local departments, state and national fire service associations, and federal fire and emergency management organizations as proven leaders and forward thinking managers.
As the nation celebrates Women's History Month, I ask my fellow fire service leaders, to join me in celebrating the contributions of all women, past and present, in the American Fire Service. On behalf of the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Fire Administration, we are grateful for your dedication and commitment to our mission. We are proud and honored to witness the efforts of all firefighters in service today, protecting their communities."
For complete information regarding the 2010 Women's History Month, visit www.womenshistorymonth.gov.