Bob Dandoy

September 11, 2001, was a wake-up call for a lot of Americans. On that day of tragedy, we realized how much we depend on and need our first responders.

We may have thought we valued our fire and police, but on that day, we realized it more deeply than ever.

Since then, we seldom miss the opportunity to recognize their dedication and work. Recognizing and honoring our first responders has become “the thing to do.”

However, the members of this community have come to understand their value more acutely of late.

One year ago, I took office as a member of the City Council and was given the assignment of “Director of Public Safety.” My primary responsibility was the Fire Department, and over the last year of working with Chief Switala and the members of our Butler City crew, I have learned so much and gained great insights into the workings of this department and our area’s volunteer organizations.

Never more so than in the last few months.

Our community has been beset with two devastating fires. Our hearts broke as one tragically took the life of a child. On Saturday, another fire swept through our downtown, leaving a gaping hole in our Main Street.

Each time, our fire and police responded with the highest degree of dedication and professionalism.

I know how it impacts these first responders when they are dealing with ANY type of fire, even the smallest one. When there is loss of property, there is a greater impact. They know that that loss is someone’s hard work, perhaps a lifetime’s hard work. It may be loss of jobs. When there is a loss of life, it is even more deeply devastating. These firefighters and police officers have families and children of their own. The loss hits hard.

Yet, they continue to serve. They continue to do this difficult job. They continue to exercise the greatest degree of professionalism.

I am incredibly proud of and grateful for these crews, both the City of Butler Fire Department and Police Department. I also want to acknowledge the members of the other crews from outlying areas that came to these calls and so many others. This is the greatest demonstration of how, when the threat is real, the people of this community and this area rally together to come to the aid of others.

The men and women of these organizations are powerful proof that Butler still reflects those values that have made so many of us proud of this community and made us decide to make it our home.

Let us all embrace this dedication and professionalism exhibited by our first responders as we move forward in our attempts to make this city a better place to live. They provide a solid example for us all to emulate.

On behalf of a grateful city, I take this opportunity to thank them all.

Bob Dandoy is a Butler City councilman.