As Thanksgiving approaches, a documentary project that I am working on reminds me that we should all be thankful for the many “first responders” that stand ready to assist us at a moments notice!
Hats and coats ready to go.
While I’ve been working with the United States Coast Guard, who’s motto is “Semper Paratus” (Always Ready), I’ve realized that whether it be Police, Firemen, EMS or Military personnel, most of what they do on a daily basis is preparation for the dangerous duty they are called upon to do when we need them.
At the ready
Engine maintenance
While not on a call, our first responders need to maintain their equipment. It has to be ready to go, without fail. Lives may depend on that readiness!
Semper Paratus, Always Ready
So that when that call comes in for assistance, they head for the door, don their gear in any weather, and race toward the danger that the rest of us flee!
Racing through the waves.
My documentary project will include names and faces, but for this post I intend it to anonymous enough to apply to all first responders. To offer them my thanks! For the crew at Coast Guard Station Fairport, I extend a special Thank You for the unprecedented access and openness!
Let’s all be thankful for our first responders and hope that we never need to call on them!
Photography Unposed by Kolman Rosenberg 