A Fireman's Tears

The alarm rang, as it had so many times before. He was the first of the fireman up and out, awakened from his bed at the station by the clanging of the bell. As Engine 3 pulled out of the bay, Dispatch paged another station and with all the firemen aboard the truck they were tensed with anticipation. "It's going to be a nice 'un, boys," He said as he donned his gear and the young bucks smiled at him as they drew ever near. They turned onto his own street and he could see the fire's work, he hoped their mother woke his kids to see their dad at work. His heart sank as he saw the home that he so dearly loved going up in smoke and flames as he donned his gloves. Aggressively he hit the fire and searched the rooms above, and with a flare of personal vengeance he saved what remained of his home. As he left the world of flaming hell he saw his little girl. He ran quickly to her side and said "Honey, Daddy's here." He would never forget what next she said as he held her close, "I love you, Daddy," she whimpered, and he began to weep. She died in his arms that night, the others later on. His comrades gave him their respects but his family was gone. He sits alone at the station, now, there’s no more spring in his step. He stays detached from his fellows to avoid once again being hurt. He risks it all in fires, now. No more concerns for his safety. He has taken a solemn vow. He won't let it happen to another, as long as he's around.