COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Editor’s Note: May 17-23 is National Emergency Medical Services Week. In honor of this year’s theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” we are presenting a series of spotlights focused on the firefighter/paramedics and firefighter/emergency medical technicians who serve as first responders for Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support (Columbus) and Defense Supply Center Columbus.
Name: Joseph (Joe) Dougher
Job title: firefighter/paramedic and station captain
What inspired you to become a firefighter/paramedic? I grew up in a family that was always in the public service field. Many of my family members were firefighters or police officers. I believe this is my true calling.
When did you join DLA Fire and Emergency Services and what did you do before you got here? I transferred to DLA FES in January of 2017. I previously worked at Dahlgren Naval Base and Fort A.P. Hill – both in Virginia. Prior to becoming a civilian employee, I was in the Army.
Describe your typical shift in 2-3 sentences. I arrive at the station early and assign the firefighters to either the fire truck or medic unit. My fire gear is checked and placed near my spot on the truck, so I am ready to take an emergency call. Our trucks and equipment are then checked out. Our crews go to the gym in the morning and usually do some kind of fire or EMS training in the afternoon.
Is there a moment you’ve encountered on duty that stands out? Unfortunately, in our jobs we encounter many negative things. We have seen families lose everything in a house fire or even lose a loved one from a medical emergency. One positive event that stands out to me is delivering a baby while enroute to the hospital. It was a bit scary and exciting all wrapped up together.
What’s the hardest part of your job and why? Online training is the hardest part of this job. We are firefighters. Most of us want to be hands-on, not stuck in front of a computer screen.
What do you like most about your job and why? The camaraderie, the family type atmosphere. We basically live together for 48 hours. In most cases it really is a second family.
How do you unwind after a shift? For me, I have a two-hour ride home. I use that time to let go of the shift (leave work at work). I enjoy spending time with my wife and when schedules line up right going out with my son and daughter-in-law.