I wanted to share a quick story of a recruit that graduated from our Verdugo Fire Academy (VFA) several years ago and how a few words of encouragement can change a person’s outlook and direction in their life.
Issac Medina Five Years Ago. Cadet Medina was a hardworking individual who was working at Porto’s Bakery in Glendale Ca. when he joined the Verdugo Fire Academy (VFA). I could tell there was something special in him with his demeanor and work ethic. A quiet but very curious person.
Issac spoke broken English and told me during the academy he struggled understanding the instructors due to the language issue. He mentioned he caught a little grief from fellow cadets. Though fun in nature, at times it can still hurt. A good reminder/lesson here in for all of us. Read that reminder again to yourself and give it thought.
Issac advised me he was feeling down and wasn’t sure if this was meant for him. This day in particular was a training day of hose evolutions. Bound and determined, Issac was up for his evaluation of pulling hose. VFA Instructor retired Deputy Chief of the Arcadia Fire Dept oversaw the training this day. I’ve known Dave for most of my career and have worked closely together in a neighboring agency. Dave is a great guy, who is fair, but a firm fire service veteran who will not settle with mediocrity from our Academy Cadets.
While Issacs was performing his evolution(s) Dave told him to “stop” in front of the entire class. Imagine what went through Issacs head? Dave immediately captured the attention, gathered the observing Cadets, and said “did you see what he just did? “He did that perfect” and that’s exactly what I expect from all of you. He did it perfectly!
Issac said at that moment he felt so proud of himself. Those words were not often conveyed. However, Issac told me those words remained and will remain in him, defining him as a different person. He said at that point it motivated him to move forward through the academy with the confidence. Someone believed in him, and he believed in himself.
The intention of this small story is to demonstrate the power of words. You can either be a “blackbelt in tongue fu” and beat people down or speak words of encouragement and lift them up.
In the Bible Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Our words have the power to build others up or tear them down.
Firefighter Issac Medina Today: Thanks to the members of Orange County Fire Authority, Fire Chief Brian Fennessy and Issac himself, he joined OCFA’s seasonal wildland crew for approximately two seasons. He then became a full time Firefighter with Orange County Fire Authority. He has been with them for approximately three years and is currently assigned to Truck 75 in Santa Ana – One of OCFA’s busiest Truck Companies.
What Words will You Be Sharing Today?
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He also is Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com
Admins’s Note: The religious views and perspectives presented in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs, values, or official positions of the California State Firefighters Association. Our organization is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive platform for diverse viewpoints and open dialogue.