03/28/2026
I know that this is going to sound like I’m preaching to the choir,
Folks, This is a sad time in Oklahoma. In the last several weeks, all of Oklahoma has fought some hard battles. Wildfires have ran rampant across our State. We have seen thousands of acres burn. I don’t know of one agency in the State, that hasn’t had a fire.
From wildfires to wrecks, structure fire’s to medical calls, we as Firefighters, EMS crews, Police Officers, and communities have stood side by side. We have suffered losses though. We have had fellow firefighters die, we have had wounded, we have lost equipment, and our communities have lost homes and belongings. Things none of us will ever get back. Some departments have already spent an entire years budget on fuel, supplies, and repairs in just 6 weeks.
But folks, this has been the same story, for the last 3 years in a row. Dry conditions, low humidity, and strong winds, fueling fast moving wildfires. Unfortunately, this is just one ounce in that pound of problems we face.
Each year that goes by, that septic truck that’s full of campaign promises from politicians, the “We support the rural fire service, and we stand behind our first responders” while standing in front of the people of Oklahoma, is just another gallon of crap in that septic tank truck. No new initiatives to attract new volunteers,no new incentives to keep them, no increases in funding to help agencies. Just more wind out of their butts to help fuel the flames.
When a bill that hits our state legislators, cannot even be heard that is somewhat of a benefit for our agencies, that shows, we aren’t important. It shows they don’t care. Isn’t a benefit to them. They receive nothing for it. So why hear about it?
They know, we are REAL OKLAHOMANS, we will still show up when needed,and we will do the RIGHT thing when needed. No matter what. We stand with our communities, towns, cities and state. They stand with whatever benefits them the most.
So I stand corrected. It’s not a sad day in Oklahoma, it’s been a sad last few years in Oklahoma. When I look back at this time, I can say I am proud of all of our first responders cause I can look at what all of you protected, all the lives and property you have all saved and protected, but as far as our State government, they have failed to do their part. The only thing they have accomplished was adding another gallon to the septic truck.
Rob.