This refers to “The Ben Franklin Dance” (Rules of Engagement, July 2007). I read Chief Alan Brunacini’s column several times before writing this response, as I have deep respect for the Brunacini family’s contributions to the fire service.
The historical mission of the fire service is fixed by need and circumstances. To place blame on Franklin is unfair to his reputation as a thinker and planner for early United States development. The second paragraph about those brave souls’ inability to change the fire service’s thinking strikes a bad note with me. We need to always be supportive of individuals who initiate change in the interest of safety for our firefighters. Articles should never support the “that’s the way it has always been” mindset or give those too lazy or ignorant to learn a 263-year-old excuse. Keep those educational articles coming. We can and must change our way of thinking.
David WilsonFire InspectorNutley, New Jersey
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