Whenever I am recognized by Boulder Emergency Squad it amazes me, and fills me with pride. The members of BES are some of the most dedicated and giving people I’ve ever worked with, so to be called out as something extraordinary among such citizens is quite an honor. These are people who have a full time job, and yet are always there in the middle of the night, middle of a blizzard, middle of a flood, to help those that are in need the most. They give up sleep, rest, play, dinners, and holidays, drop whatever they might be doing when the call goes out. All give up their Saturdays and Mondays throughout the year to keep skills sharp, and many put in as many hours (or far more) as rescuers as the rest of the world does in a career.

Over the last two an a half years BES has filled my life with adrenaline, meaning, pride, great friends, and great skills. It has been one of the most rewarding and challenging things I’ve ever done, and yet one in which I’ve felt most supported. I’ve continue to take on more and more leadership, from Personnel Director a year ago, Swiftwater Instructor 10 months ago, to becoming a member of the Board of Directors 8 months ago.

all of what I have given BES does not even come close to what it has given me in rich life experiences from my first call and it’s shockwaves, my first emergent run, dealing with drowning and life preciousness, time warping extrications, death, bright purpose.

Tonight I was promoted to Lieutenant, and with my newly issued badge and bugles, have been given the opportunity to lead as an officer. I will wear them with pride, knowing that such people as these, that I admire so much, trust me with the honor to lead and keep them safe.

Lieutenant Carey
Boulder Emergency Squad