It is every little boys dream to become a fireman. To race to the scene on a shiny red truck with all the lights and sirens clearing the way. The excitement, the teamwork and the special feeling of helping those in need. It is a calling, and it is not for the weak of heart. It takes strong will, determination and a commitment to perform valiantly at a moments notice. The training hours alone are enough to stain most relationships, so you can imagine that when an alarm is sounded, life stops, and the real sacrifice begins. The hours are long, there is no pay and you must be willing to miss special moments with family and friends. Most little boys and young men never get to experience this, then alone a man of age.

Just days before Christmas while taking Santa around Sadsburyville and neighboring communities, a man took notice to our community involvement. A hand written note was left on our firehouse door before we returned from the days events. The note was from Mr. Sam Morelli, a resident in Quarry Ridge. Sam indicated in his note that he was very impressed with our annual Santa visit and was interested in becoming a firefighter. Sam wanted someone to call him as soon as possible. After a few days, I contacted Sam. I recall the conversation like it was yesterday. The excitement and determination in Sam's voice reminded me of when I first got my start in the fire service. It was very refreshing hearing from a 44 year old man that he wanted to do everything possible to become a firefighter and with no experience at all. I invited Sam to the next work night to meet the crew and obtain an application. True to his word, he showed up with the biggest smile and positive attitude imaginable. Sam made friends quickly and became a member, and I became his mentor.

I will never forget how thrilled he was when he was given a pager and full gear. Sam couldn't wait to put his gear on. He asked me if it was too childish for him to look at himself in a mirror wearing all his gear. I had to laugh at first, but I strongly encouraged him to do so. I told him to look at himself as a professional and as a brother, he got the point immediately.

I was on the the truck during Sam's first response to a fire call. The look on his face was priceless. You could see the little boy in him with his eyes aglow, determination and pride. Sam's dream was becoming a reality screaming down the road on Engine 31-1. He was nervous, but he did what he was told and he did a good job. Over the course of Sam's service, he performed true and was eager to learn. Sam rarely missed a work night, assisted with bingo and was always willing and able to do more. Sam was going to take his firefighter certification course in the fall.

Unfortunately, dreams and hopes often become shattered, and those left behind are stunned and affected deeply. Early in the afternoon on Sunday March 30, 2014 we were dispatched to Sam's home. Along with other emergency medical services, we were unsuccessful in resuscitating Sam. Sam had been briefly ill and had died peacefully in his sleep.

Not every little boy gets to live out his dream and become a fireman, but Sam did, and we are grateful for the time we had with him. Rest easy brother...we'll take it from here. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Sam leaves behind a loving wife and young son.

A memorial service will be held for Firefighter Morelli on Friday April 4th, 2014 at 3:30 PM at the Pomeroy United Methodist Church on Spruce Street in Pomeroy.