For the Memory of Our Heroes

From our vantage points, behind our desks or safe in our comfortable homes, it is all too easy to forget that there are men and women out in the world today facing horrific situations and risking their lives for our safety, our freedom, our way of life. For the soliders, the policemen, and the firemen facing dangerous situations every hour of every day so that we can continue on, I thank you. From the bottom of my heart, I salute your brave courage and promise never to take for granted what you offer each moment you spend on the job. You offer up your lives. You sacrifice going home to your own families so that I can go home to mine.

In Memoriam "The Brave Nine" -- 9 Firefighters killed in the line of duty fighting a massive furniture warehouse fire in Charleston, SC on June 18, 2007.

Louis Mulkey was 34 years old. He was a Captain with 11.5 years service.
Brandon Thompson was 27 years old. He was a Fire Fighter with 4 years service.
William "Billy" Hutchinson was 48 years old. He was a Captain with 30 years service.
Mark Kelsey was 40 years old. He was an Engineer with 12.5 years service.
James "Earl" Drayton was 56 years old. He was a Fire Fighter with 32 years service.
Michael French was 27 years old. He was an Asst. Engineer with 1.5 years service.
Melvin Champaign was 46 years old. He was a Fire Fighter with 2 years service.
Mike Benke was 49 years old. He was a Captain with 20 years service.
Bradford "Brad" Baity was 37 years old, an Engineer with 9 years service.