Another Memorial Day is in the books. The annual parade, family and friends nearby. The flags. The military procession. The bands. The ones who are still here – but they remember. The fire trucks were all shined up and ready to help honor those memories.

We do still remember…all the years, and going further back even.

When we were kids, we would go to the firehouse for Sunday work sessions. For us it was a day out with our dad, with treats of donuts or cookies and soda as payment for our efforts.

Even now, I can still remember the smell. If I walked into any station, it would be so familiar.

All year long – from here to there and everywhere, the company works to keep them polished, painted and pristine – all shined up. Sure, to have them ready for a parade, but really to protect them from damage; and anything that comes their way. This – none of this – is for the faint of heart. So, we show up, we wave and clap and we say thank you in as many ways as we can. It is up to us to remember and to tell the stories, too.

~ Dawn aka Hat Girl