My boss forwarded me this email from her daughter-in-law:
I would like to first like to say that Bill is SAFE/UNINJURED!
Last night 9 local fire fighters with the City of Charleston Fire Department have lost their lives in the line of duty after a sofa store caught on fire.
I would like to thank each of you that has called to check on our family.
Bill was NOT on duty last night but did go in. He didn’t get home until after 4 am. 2 fire stations lost BOTH of their crews. Station #16 and #19.
Please take a moment to pray for those families that lost loved ones.
The Fireman’s Prayer
When I am called to duty, God,
Where’re the flames may rage,
Give me strength to save some life
Whatever be its age.
Help me embrace a little child
Before it is too late,
Or save some older person from
The horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert,
And hear the weakest shout
And quickly and effectively
To put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling
And give the best in me.
To guard my every neighbor
And protect his property;
And if according to Your will,
I have to lose my life
Please bless with Your protecting hand
My children and my wife.
Amen.