NASHVILLE - During this morning’s opening ceremonies, Firehouse Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach welcomed attendees to Music City and Firehouse Expo 2016 with a message of the power of one—whether that be one department, one magazine, one individual—to shape the future of the fire service. He challenged attendees to consider how to share their stories and use their influence to make their mark.
With 2016 being the 40th anniversary of Firehouse Magazine and the Firehouse brand, Sendelbach used the story of Dennis Smith, the magazine’s founder, to underscore his message. It was 1972 when Smith chronicled his experiences as a firefighter serving in the South Bronx in the national bestseller Report from Engine Co. 82. “His words and the stories he shared without question inspired hundreds, if not thousands, of people to pursue the ultimate dream—the dream of becoming a big city firefighter,” Sendelbach said.
Four years later, Smith founded Firehouse Magazine, creating a new medium for firefighters to share their stories, read about major fires and become connected with the latest in training, tools, tactics and technologies. “The power of one individual, one story and one magazine to shape and influence a career is immeasurable,” Sendelbach said. “We’re honored to have shared these stories and contributions, and we look forward to the opportunity to share many more in our next 40 years.”
Sendelbach listed off several Firehouse contributors and fire service legends, making note of their impact on the fire service and asking who has the courage to chart similar paths: “Who will describe the hazards of flashover and captivate the minds of firefighters around the world with their knowledge and experience of the modern fireground like Vincent Dunn? Who will be the next Francis Brannigan and dissect the hazards of modern building construction and educate our firefighters about the building as our enemy? Who will dig deep into the annals of history to remind us of our past and the countless lessons to be learned like Paul Hashagen? Who will lead the charge of designing our fire apparatus like Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand?” He also referenced the work of contributors like Barry Furey, Jim Smith, Curt Varone, Harry Carter, Robert Burke, Charles Werner, Ron Moore, Gary Ludwig, Dan Byrne, John Salka and Billy Goldfeder.
Sendelbach concluded by reminding attendees that although the challenges that lie ahead may be unknown, we must never forget the power of one individual, one story and one magazine and its ability to save lives. “I challenge you to leave here this week with the courage, passion and tenacity of those who have paved the path for the last 40 years, to share your story and influence the future of the American fire service,” he said.
