To much is given is expected. Armed with this wisdom, I have chosen to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of those who give of themselves, yet ask for little in return. I chose to follow this path because of what was given to me. In 1971 my mother passed away in a horrific housefire. The firefighters were not able to save her along with my two brothers, but even as a child, I remember being impressed and grateful for the tremendous effort and energy these men expended, tirelessly, trying to save my family. Since that day, I have been sensitive to the struggles that these brave men and women face.​