We have a variety of shapes, sizes and cultures in our Fire Department, which is very normal and refreshing. Over the last 8 years, I have learned many things from our diversity. While I embrace diversity, I want to outline some values that we as a department need to embrace. Setting standards will serve us well. 

First and foremost – Our Core Value will be Integrity. This is a relatively small word that means more than I could describe. Webster’s online dictionary describes in this way:
·         firm adherence to a code of especially moral values, Incorruptibility;
 
·         an unimpaired condition: Soundness; and
 
·         the quality or state of being complete or undivided – Completeness.
 
I was struck once by an exercise done at a training class and I want to share it with you. Think of all the adjectives that describes a firefighter to you. Most people answer things like Brave, Courageous, Trustworthy, Honest, Hero, and many more. While those are all qualities we desire in a Firefighter, we cannot teach you any of these – you either have them or you don’t. 
 
I want the best for this department and I know that all of our members share my feelings. There is a Greek word – Ethos. It’s original meaning is "character" and it is used to describe the guiding beliefs or ideals that characterize a community, nation, or ideology.
Here are some Ethos we will embrace:
·         My ‘Yes’ will be ‘Yes’ and my ‘No’ will be ‘No’. Simply put, if I say I am going to do something I will do it…period. If I am unable to accomplish something I will communicate that with someone in leadership.
o   This starts with your commitment to volunteer hours and attendance at training. It continues with commitment to projects or events in the Fire Department. If you say you are going to be somewhere or do something – quite simply, do it. Remember, if you continually fall back on your commitments, your word becomes worthless.
 
·         I have your back. I explained some of this my introductory letter quoted earlier in this letter. The Department has “the back” of those we serve in the City and County by being the best we can be. We each “have the back” of our fellow firefighters by honing our skills so that when it is time to accomplish a task we have equipped ourselves for success. We don’t have to worry about the skills or dedication of anyone because we are looking out for each other every day.
 
·         Constantly Improve Yourself. Do something every day to improve ourselves and therefore the Department. If you have free time around the department, look for some ways to make the department better (maybe cleaning or washing trucks), or improving your skills by taking equipment out and training, even if it is starting a chainsaw or pulling hose and repacking.
 
 
·         Be on time. When you are late for an event, your actions show disrespect for the event and the person organizing the event. I recently heard a saying that you should embrace: Being early is being on time, being on time is late and being late is unacceptable.
 
I spent 24 years in the Air Force and had an opportunity to do some very exciting and interesting things. Being in a Fire Department – This Fire Department—is very exciting and interesting for me also. I want you all to think about who you are and your commitment to this Department. It is time that we all embrace a value system within this Department that will continue to make it a place of excellence.
 
Together, we can continue a proud tradition that has sustained this department for over 40 years.  I look forward to serving together with you for a very long time.
 
 
Dan Reese
Chief
Windcrest Volunteer Fire Department