COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Editor’s Note: May 21-27 is National Emergency Medical Technician Week. This year’s theme is “Where Emergency Care Begins.” This is a part of a series of spotlights highlighting firefighter/paramedics who serve as DLA’s first responders in emergencies.
Your name: Richard Aldrich
Job title and duty location: Firefighter/EMT/hazardous materials technician for DLA Land and Maritime in Columbus, Ohio
What inspired you to become a firefighter/EMT/paramedic? Before I joined the Air Force, I felt like I could do something better than the path that I was on, but I was not sure what. I knew I did not want to be stuck in an office and I wanted to stay physically fit. I felt like I could perform well in stressful situations, and I liked the idea of the camaraderie that came with being a firefighter. I thought being an Air Force firefighter was an excellent opportunity and it checked all those boxes.
When did you join DLA Fire and Emergency Services and what did you do before you got here? I joined DLA Fire and Emergency Services in February 2021. Before I started here, I was a lead firefighter/hazmat technician for Robins Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services in Georgia.
Describe your typical shift in 2-3 sentences. One of the best things about this job is that there is no typical shift. Although there are some elements that are typically accomplished, it is never the same.
Is there a moment you’ve encountered on duty that stands out? I have been in this field since 2012, and there are tons of moments that I have encountered on duty that stand out. Some are good, and some are not, but that is just a part of the job.
What’s the hardest part of your job and why? Knowing that you could potentially have someone’s life in your hands and be in a situation that you might not be as experienced in as you would like to be before you are expected to act flawlessly.
What do you like most about your job and why? Helping people out on what is usually one of the worst days of their lives. Saving a life or the life of someone’s loved one is a great feeling.
How do you unwind after a shift? I like to spend time with my wife and my daughter and enjoy watching her learn new things every day. Outside of that, I like to golf when I can.