Differences in political ideology, race, sexual orientation, and religion may separate people, yet one group transcends these divisions entirely. These individuals will charge into a raging inferno and rescue your life without regard for whether you are a democrat or republican, gay or straight, black or white, Catholic or Jewish.
That group is the courageous firefighters of the Boston Fire Department.
This week, the Department lost two exceptional members: Firefighter Michael Kennedy and Fire Lieutenant Ed Walsh.
During a devastating 9-alarm fire in the Back Bay, Kennedy and Walsh showed no hesitation. They grabbed a hose and rushed into the flames, completely disregarding their own safety as they worked to pull people from the building.
Then tragedy struck. Their unit became separated from them. A mayday signal was sent. Despite their efforts to escape the intense heat and suffocating smoke, both men made the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of others.
This represents the daily commitment of Boston Fire Department personnel.
The tributes that have poured in throughout the week make one thing clear: Bostonians do not overlook these heroes.
The coming days will bring profound sorrow as we witness the funerals of Walsh and Kennedy. Bagpipes will sound. Their fellow firefighters will stand in solemn tribute while their trucks parade through the streets, boots and helmets displayed on top.
These two men merit every tear and every honor bestowed upon them.
Someone once observed that no amount of training can reveal true bravery until a genuine crisis occurs.
Last week, Boston faced such a moment, and anyone acquainted with Firefighter Michael Kennedy and Fire Lieutenant Ed Walsh knows without doubt that they passed that test. They stand among the bravest Boston has known.
Had they survived and found their way through the flames and smoke, there would be no question that when the next alarm sounded, they would be first to grab a hose and attempt to save another life.