The Noble Breed

The author takes you from the fire which burns within before he gets on the fire department to retiring from the fire department. He lays it on the line. Provides a solid picture of what it's like to be a rookie. Shows some of the heavy handed fire service politics which are present at varying degrees. Most of the author's experience is prior to the current requirements of SCBAs and emphasis on safety. Spent too much time talking about the strike and the union activities but understand how this was a large part of his life. The book is frank about fire, children, LODD, injury, and leadership.

Right from the start of this book you are draws into the fire service. It give a real look at a day in the life of a fireman. I been a fireman for many years now and I could relate to every thing in this book, from the stresses the job puts on your family life to fighting that fire that you think will never go out. This book show how you become a huge family when you work in the fire service, how you come to depend on that person next to you and you grow to care for one another as a family member, for they are your brother or sister in the fire service. A great read for anyone thinking about becoming a fireman or already is a fireman.

The book was great! The author paints a clear picture of life in a ghetto fire station. The chapters regarding the strike were fantastic. Anyone with connections to a labor union needs to read this book to see what solidarity and brotherhood is all about. Can't wait for the next one. Craig Ferris AAFD Local 693