I've decided recently (in the past 2 years) to pursue a Firefighting career. I am a soldier in Iraq, and have been deployed now for 2 years. I have been in the Infantry for 9 years now, and I figured it's time to get to know my family... hence the Firefighting career. Only... I know very little about Firefighting. How does Firefighting compare to military life? What should I expect when I get the job? How does the Academy work, and what should I do to get prepared for it? Is there anything I can do here in Iraq, and before I get out of the Army to prepare myself? I have a few friends who were volunteer Firefighters, and they have given me some clues in these areas, but if anyone could clarify for me... I'd be greatly appreciative.

SSG Shane Kraeger