What youngster hasn’t had a thought or two about being a firefighter? And in a world where role models are sometimes hard to find, what kid doesn’t look up to the men and women who put their lives on the line, almost every day?

Recently in Erie, Pa., members of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 293 and Engine 8, 4th Platoon of the Erie Fire Department, hosted an open house for several dozen grade school students. After a tour of the firehouse and fire engine, several IAFF local members talked about staying in school, life as a firefighter, community service and working together.

In a note to the local, Ron Oliver, AFL-CIO Community Services labor liaison with the United Way of Erie County, said:

You guys did an outstanding job….This is what's needed in our community. They were really excited about touring the fire truck and some even expressed the interest of becoming a fireman.

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