Your First Time
Preface: I started in the fire service in 1990 and in Search and Rescue in 1992. I have seen a lot, more than some, less than others, but still, a lot. This post was inspired by a newer SAR person wanting to prepare themselves for the first time they were a part of a body recovery. I didn't respond to the question, but many others did, sharing their own thoughts and experiences. It brought up a lot of thoughts that trickled through my brain all day. It brought up memories of so many that I wasn't in time to save. I wasn't late, there just wasn't time to save them. So, I did the next thing I could do. Help to recover them so that their families could move on. There is some graphic imagery here and if you don't want to know what it's like, then stop reading now. I don't want to make your day unpleasant or cause your nightmares. I just want... I just need to share what is stuck in my head. A great majority of the people I know have been there wi