A Day of Giving Thanks

Today, I had the opportunity to help someone. My wife and daughter drafted me to go to the local homeless veteran’s shelter and serve the residents there Thanksgiving dinner. First, let me say that I realize we were just three people out of thousands that reached out to others on this great holiday all over this nation. Our vets, residents of the Good Neighbor Shelter in North Charleston, were all non-assuming men who have had difficulty of some sort in their lives. This shelter gives them a place to live while they attend classes or otherwise prepare themselves to be on their own again. It was uplifting to be with folks who enjoyed simple things and the generosity of others. I certainly appreciated the opportunity that they gave me to share this day of thanksgiving with them.

One of the blessings of being a member of the Charleston Firefighter Support Team is being able to work with the others on our Team. All are special people who have dedicated themselves to the CFD family. Sarah, Amanda, Richie, Chris, Sherry, Dr. Smith and the fifteen members of the CFD that serve as peer counselors are the Charleston Firefighter Support Team and I am honored to be associated with them. They are all true professionals in every sense of the word. They make me want to be a better person and I am thankful for each of them. Specifically today however, I want to mention one of our teammates, Christopher Wells. Chris is a quiet guy, most of the time, and is always setting an example for us as he helps others. He is a devoted family man, a great father and husband, and a good friend. Chris teaches his boys, Bryce and Casey, to be good citizens and to always do their part to support others. Whether it is the Ronald McDonald House, the local soup kitchen, or a children’s camp, Chris gives of himself regularly and he teaches his sons to do the same. Well, today Chris, I remembered one of the lessons learned from you. Thanks, my friend.

The Wells Boys, Casey, Chris & Bryce, Working on Engine 11