Firefighter Ethos

Based on the Navy Seal Ethos

In times of tragedy and uncertainty there is a special breed of citizen ready to answer our nation’s call. Common servants with an uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, they stand alongside each other to serve their community, the American people, and protect their way of life. The public entrusts them to safeguard their lives, their property and their families.

I am that guardian.

My Badge is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Badge I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn every day. 

My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans, always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.

I serve with honor everywhere I go. My ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from others. Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast.

My word is my bond.

We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. The public expects me to be physically harder and stronger than the hazards I must mitigate. A fire’s ferocity knows no bounds, nor does mine. If knocked down, I will get back up every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect the public, my teammates and accomplish our mission.

I am never out of the fight.

We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of the public, my teammates and the success of our mission depend on me - my technical skill, physical strength, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail.

My training is never complete.

We train to fight and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of physical power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my officers. The execution of my duties will be swift and efficient when required and guided by the steadfast calm and rational mindset that I have cultivated within myself.

Brave firefighters have fought and died building the proud tradition and respected reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates and the safety of the public steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed.

I will not fail.