I find it disgusting, insulting and downright immature that people have the uncontrollable need to bash firefighters. It’s uncalled for, and it just shows how ignorant people can be. Many people perceive firefighters as “lazy people who eat, sleep and drive a big red truck,” but these people don’t ask for much and they literally die so other people can live.

Not only is the pay they receive not nearly enough, but the health coverage makes them just break even. Without it, they would die. They’re disrespected, insulted and treated like trash. But when it comes down to it, who will save you when you’re in trouble? Being helped out of a burning building doesn’t happen like magic. Firefighters risk — and sometimes lose — their lives for the sake of others, and all they ever wanted was a little recognition and respect.

There should seriously be a documentary about this; make the people insulting the firefighters do a week’s worth of the job they say is so easy and unnecessary. This ignorance has to stop. Many firefighters have to fight for their pensions, which is unheard of in a majority of jobs.

A dedicated chief died before he could receive his pension from a terminal illness, and had his pension delayed every single day until he passed away, and at that point the city did not have to pay him a penny. A member of the retirement board (who will remain anonymous) was caught making jest at this poor man’s death.

Stop disrespecting people who lose their lives for a job that involves saving the citizens. At least be a little grateful.

ALEK BOCK

Providence