The Tie that
Binds
It didn't matter
how many times he tried. It just seemed that all the elements were determined to
distract him, injure him, and irritate him or whatever it took to make him late.
He would always have a new weekly event that prevented him from making roll call
on time. He couldn't help it if the neighbor down the hallway decided it was
time to have a family reunion. That neighbor must've had a large family because
Johnny couldn't believe the parking lot in his apartment complex. Cars, pick-up
trucks and even a couple of those VW vans were everywhere. Every spare parking
spot was taken and then there were several areas of double parking. In fact, a
nice large Ford pick-up was planted firmly behind his Rover. He sighed as he
looked over the balcony. Cap is gonna kill me! How am I gonna explain this
one? He quickly started down the breezeway and tapped on Sam's door.
After ten minutes of pulling Sam, his neighbor, from the throng of elderly
grandmothers, Johnny was pacing frantically. Sam located the owner of the Ford
and they skimmed down the stairway with Johnny right behind him. Johnny was
moving so fast that he forgot about the rusted stair rail and was immediately
reminded of it when a particularly large piece of iron and rust jammed into his
palm.
“Damn it!” he exclaimed, rubbing his palm and pulling the shards of iron out.
That's just great! Man, this is not my morning!
Sam turned as Johnny yelled out. “Hey, you okay?” He asked, squinting his eyes
against the morning sunlight as he looked back at a frustrated John Gage.
“Just took in a chunk of this rust! I'm okay!” Johnny said hurriedly. He glanced
at the Ford as the engine started. The pick-up rolled slowly backwards and
Johnny was beginning to feel relief that finally he would be on his way. His
hand began to burn with irritation as he climbed behind the wheel of his own
vehicle.
“Thanks, Sam! Gotta run!”
Sam waved back as Johnny pulled through the crowded parking lot. He shook his
head thankful that he didn't have to face his own boss on weekends.
* * * * * * *
“G A G E !”
Johnny rounded the back end of the engine, sliding on the waxed floor. He was
able to turn his body just so due to the many times he'd already practiced this
particular stunt. He brushed his wayward hair from his forehead and sheepishly
grinned.
“Uh, yea, Cap . . uh ..yes, Sir!”
“Gage, I swear, I've just about had it. What was it this time? Flat tire? Sick
neighbor? Speeding ticket? Your arm stuck in the drain? You're running out of 'em,
Gage!” Cap was seething and all Johnny could do was wince at each announced
previous excuse. It was unusual to see Cap so worked up already. Johnny figured
something else was up.
“Uh, well, you see,” Johnny shifted from feeling uncomfortable to feeling
incredibly uncomfortable. “Well, my Rover was blocked in at the parking lot.”
Cap just simply blinked and then sighed. “Oh, okay then, well, that's just fine.
It's never your fault, right?”
“But, it's true,” Johnny began to explain until Cap put up his hand.
“Can it, Gage. I don't want to hear it. In fact, speaking of 'cans', why don't
you just take on latrine duty today, okay? Think we can get that done in a
timely manner?”
“Sure, Cap. Sure,” Johnny responded sullenly.
The rest of the crew stood by watching the usual ritual when Johnny was late.
Roy had to work hard to squash his smile while feeling Johnny's discomfort with
Cap's present mood. Usually, his partner managed to find a way to ease by the
moment, but today seemed different. Roy didn't think Cap would let him off that
easy. Roy continued to watch, noticing that Johnny kept his left hand beside
him, his thumb hooked on his pant belt loop. It was an unusual stance for Johnny
and Roy made a mental note to find out why.
A chuckle escaped someone else's mouth as Cap began announcing the rest of the
assignments.
“Is there a problem, Kelley?”
“No sir,” responded the smirking fireman. Chet tried to contain his own response
to Johnny's predicament, but wasn't as successful as Roy had been.
“Good. Let's carry on like a real fire station is supposed to carry on its
business,” came the unusual gruff reply from Cap.
After Cap finished the rest of the day's announcements, he retreated to his
office and closed the door, leaving the rest of the men to wonder at his mood.
“Thanks a lot, Gage! You really did it this time!” Chet groused.
“Oh, shut up, Chet! I don't think he's that upset over me,” Johnny deduced from
his previous experiences, which were too numerous to count. “He's never been
that upset.”
“Yea, well, whatever it is, you made it worse,” Chet pushed a finger right at
Johnny's chest. “Have fun with the latrines, Johnny!”
“I agree. I don't think it was Johnny. Something else is bothering him,” Mike
spoke up, showing concern for his mentor.
“He was pretty quiet since I got here,” added Marco. Roy just shook his head and
agreed with everyone. He took that moment to put an arm on his partner's
shoulder, pulling him away from the debate.
“Coffee?”
“Yea, I need it this morning!” Johnny smiled.
“So, what happened to your hand?” Roy asked, looking closer at Johnny's hand.
Johnny raised it up and looked at it. “Well, I was in such a hurry that I forgot
about all the rust on the stair rail. You wouldn't believe what happened today .
. “
“Ah, well, I'll hear it later,” interrupted Roy. “Let me see your hand.”
Johnny offered to Roy and winced when Roy touched the sensitive palm. It was
still red and looked a little swollen with evidence of a quick washing. “It's
still tender,” he explained.
“Why don't I wrap it for you?” Roy instructed.
“Okay, okay, just let me get my coffee.”
Roy headed out to the squad to retrieve some ointment and a bandage to wrap
Johnny's hand with. He grinned as he heard the continued discussion from the
others. They were heading to the day room, trying to keep their voices low so as
to not disturb Cap as they passed his office. Roy watched them move past and he
decided he needed an answer. Grabbing the medical supplies he closed the
compartment door and walked to the office door. He gave it a gentle rap.
“Cap?”
“Yeah? Roy?” There was a hesitation in Cap's voice. “Come on in, Roy.”
Roy entered the office and saw Cap holding a memo from the Chief's desk at
Headquarters. He surmised that whatever was on that memo held Cap's attention at
the moment.
“Cap, I was just wondering…” Roy started. Cap held up his hand.
“Before you say anything…Roy…I…well, let's just say that I was a little out of
line this morning.” Cap stood up slowly, stretching his long legs and still
holding the memo. “I think I was just feeling several different things after
getting this in my mailbox.” He offered the memo to Roy.
Roy was pleased that Cap was ready to talk about whatever was bothering him. But
then he felt as though he shouldn't be the one to know first. Out of respect of
the man in front of him, he took the memo and began reading it.
“As you know, several of our rescues over the last few years have become more
and more dangerous, required specialized services and equipment. Due to the
increasing need, we have decided to form a research committee to analyze the
cost and implementation of a new division of the Fire Department. We will call
this division, Urban Search and Rescue. You have been selected to serve on this
committee. You will continue in the same rank and position, however, your
assignment could last for up to twelve months. Please acknowledge your
participation in this monumental undertaking. Your experience will serve us well
as we begin a new chapter in the history of the LA
County Fire
Department. Your response is required in two weeks. Please call me with your
specific questions. Sincerely, Chief Torres.”
Roy looked up from the memo and wasn't sure what to say. He was used to fellow
firemen getting promotions and former captains moving on to higher ranks. He
just never really considered that it would happen to Captain Stanley. Not that
he thought he wasn't capable of a bigger job. It was just that, Cap had been
more than just their Captain. They had all become quite a close family and that
was one of the reasons Roy enjoyed his job so much.
“So, I guess this is good opportunity?” Roy asked quietly.
Cap looked at Roy with sorrowful eyes. “Well, it seems that way, but I'm …not
sure it’s what I want to do.”
“Why not?”
“I'm just …well, it's just that I would rather ride the rig, you know? I want to
be out in the field and I've never really thought more about it other than
taking the Chief's exam. That's it.”
Roy watched the frustration play across Cap's brow and face. He knew Cap was
struggling with this information and how to make his next decision.
“How do I know it's time to move on to something else?” Cap asked simply.
Roy didn't have an answer. He had already faced the prospect of leaving the
paramedic program after he passed the engineer exam. But that was different and
he was sure he made the right choice after a few convincing rescues and his
partner. But Cap's dilemma was deeper. Was it the right move and would he still
have the chance to return to the job he loved in the field? Roy tried to remain
upbeat.
“I'm sure you'll make the right choice. You know we'll support you no matter
what,” Roy said.
“I know, I know. And I appreciate it, Roy--really I do,” Cap smiled. “I'll have
to go apologize to the rest of the guys--guess I can tell them too,” Cap decided
as he spoke. He clasped Roy's hand and shook it, placing his other hand on Roy's
shoulder. A quick shudder ran through him as he felt the warmth of Roy's
friendship and respect. It was a good thing.
* * * * * * *
As Roy put the
truck into gear, Johnny started yawning, covering his mouth with his bandaged
hand. Roy pulled out of the Rampart emergency entrance and into the street, glad
for the small reprieve between runs. They had just finished the third run of
their busy Saturday morning and the early afternoon sun was obviously making his
partner sleepy.
“You ready for a nap or what?” Roy inquired, teasing Johnny.
Johnny finished another yawn and stretched his legs as far they could go under
the dash. “It just feels good to feel that sunshine. And yea, I guess I wouldn't
mind a little afternoon snooze, under the redwoods, swinging in my hammock,
while the birds are singing and the afternoon breeze is keeping the temperature
just right. The lake is still and the sky is really blue. Ahhh …”
“Uh, Johnny, you're rambling.”
“No I'm not. I'm dreaming!” Johnny responded with his eyes closed, his infamous
grin firmly in place and his arm resting on the open window.
Roy grinned and enjoyed the casual moment. He could also picture himself sitting
by that same lake watching the glassy surface for anything that might tug his
fishing line. He barely noticed the elderly woman that wondered in front of them
trying to beat the light at the upcoming intersection.
Roy blinked bringing himself back to the present and slammed on the brakes.
Johnny lurched forward and caught himself from crashing into the windshield by
grabbing the dash. He yelped as his still tender hand hit the hard surface. Roy
was glad that no one was behind him and as he checked again in the side-view
mirror, he flicked on the lights of the squad. He and Johnny both jumped out of
the squad and ran over to the surprised woman who was now on the asphalt. Even
though he hadn't actually hit her, Roy was still upset over his lack of
concentration and this woman's distress.
A few people started milling around and
Roy
began asking them to step away. The woman's eyes were full of bewilderment and
she scooted away from Johnny's approach.
“Don't … no … please…don't touch me!” she cried.
“Ma'am, I'm not going to hurt you. Are you okay?” Johnny's soothing voice began.
The woman kept moving away from him, trying to find a way to get up off the
street. She only held a purse and she clutched it tightly.
“Stop…don't …don't,” she pleaded.
Johnny looked over at Roy, seeking his advice. The distraught woman wasn't
showing any injuries, but they both wanted to be sure.
Roy tried. “Ma'am, we're LA County Fire Department paramedics. We just want to
be sure you're okay. At least let us help you out of the street.”
She swept the locks of hair from her face that had fallen from her tight bun and
she worked harder at looking for the sidewalk. Johnny and Roy slowed down their
approach but kept moving with her. She turned to face the curb when Johnny
reached down to help her up.
Startled, she began slapping and hitting the paramedic with her purse. “I said,
don't touch me! Leave me alone!” she screamed, pulling away from the confused
man.
She got onto her feet and started moving briskly through the growing crowd. Roy
and Johnny could only watch helplessly as she made her way down the sidewalk.
They were both surprised by her agility and her demeanor.
“Man, she just wasn't having anything to do with us,” Johnny said, incredulous
as her behavior.
“I feel bad. I hope she's okay,” Roy lamented, making his way back to the squad.
He picked up the microphone. “Squad 51, available.”
“Roy, you didn't even come close. She's fine--crazy, but fine,” Johnny replied
as he settled back into his seat, absently rubbing his sore palm.
“Yea, but it was still my fault. I wasn't paying my full attention.”
“Boy, when I tried to help her up, she stiffened up and really didn't want me
near her. It was like my touching her was something horrible,” Johnny tried to
justify the woman's behavior.
“It was pretty bizarre. I hope she's okay. Maybe she just didn't trust you,” Roy
paused. “You know, that long hair and all,” Roy was trying to get past his
present feeling of insecurity and knew Johnny would take the bait.
“Now, wait a minute. I seem to recall she wasn't wanting anything to do with
you, either, partner. Er…I mean …”senior” partner.” Johnny quipped back, taking
Roy's hook.
“I'm glad we're both clear on that point, Junior!” Roy responded, concentrating
on getting them back to the station without further incident.
* * * * * * *
She
shuffled around the living room, looking for her address book. Another spasm of
pain shot through her belly and she groaned, hoping to ride this next
contraction through. Oh, Michael, what am I going to do? She tried to
breathe normally as the contraction began to ease up. She grabbed the edge of
the couch and began making her way back the kitchen. Why is this happening,
now? I can't believe this is happening! She began to panic as each new
contraction washed over her. Her husband had to leave due to a business
commitment but promised to be back in two days. Now, when she needed the number
to his boss, she couldn't find her book.
“Oh . . “ she gasped as she reached the phone in the kitchen. She dialed the
number for the Fire Department that had been posted by her phone since they
moved into their new home two years ago. Everything was going to be perfect. Now
all she could imagine was the horrible things she had heard about babies coming
too early. Not my baby, no, not my baby. Oh Michael, she thought
hopelessly as she heard the dispatcher call a rescue squad.
“Ma'am, can you stay with me? Can you practice your breathing exercises? I have
a unit rolling right now,” the dispatcher responded as she clutched the phone.
“O k a . .y . . “ she panted. She tried to slow her breathing. “I'm . . trying.
. OHHHH!” she couldn't hold back the scream as more pain ripped through her.
Time seemed to wax in and out and all she was aware of now was someone banging
on her front door.
“Hello? LA Fire Department! Hello?” a deep voice called.
“help . .me,” she tried to say. By this time, she was sprawled on the kitchen
floor, crying as she felt warm fluid drain from her. She knew her water had
broken and her first baby wasn't due for another eight weeks.
Suddenly, the door swung open under the force of a heavy kick from Cap. He
quickly ran in followed by Johnny and Roy. It didn't take them long to find her
as she clutched her swollen abdomen and was sobbing.
“Hey, hey, there. It's going to be okay,” Johnny started to keep her calm with
his voice. “What's your name?” he asked as he placed his hand on top of hers.
“. . S S tacey . .ohhh .. “ she managed to say.
“Shhh, we're here to help, okay, Stacey? You just concentrate on breathing and
we'll get you through this,” Johnny assured her.
Roy was already on the bio-phone giving Rampart her vital signs and a summary of
the situation. Cap brought in several blankets and helped make their newest
victim more comfortable. Johnny finished his physical inspection.
“Roy, this baby's already crowning,” he said urgently.
“Ohhhhh . . . it's too early . . “ Stacey panted heavily. “too early . . noooo!”
“Stacey, you've got to calm down. None of us have a choice right now. But, we've
got to act quickly and get you to the hospital,” Johnny stated calmly.
In a matter of minutes, Johnny and Roy had delivered a very small, baby boy.
Weak cries emanated from the three-pound baby and Johnny was overwhelmed at how
small this baby was. The baby fit in the palm of his hand and he had to call
upon all his professionalism and skills to keep from showing his true feelings.
Roy was struggling too, but all they could do was concentrate on incubating the
child and preparing both mother and child for transport.
“Can't . . please . let me hold him . . please,” Stacey sobbed, feeling a
complete loss of joy over the events that just took place. It was supposed to be
perfect. “Please?”
“Stacey,” Roy began. “We've got to move now and keep your baby warm. I'm sorry.
But it's the only way to protect him.” No matter what he had learned in the
textbooks, the exams and the certifications, handling a premature infant was
never easy,
especially for the new mother.
Johnny held her hand as the ambulance roared down the street. A sedative was
ordered and it helped to calm the new mother down just a bit. The few weak cries
that they heard were growing weaker and Johnny watched intently as Roy tended to
the baby, keeping the infant as comfortable as possible. They just didn't have
the right equipment for such a small baby and the sooner they got to Rampart the
better.
They had arrived among a flurry of activity. As the doors opened at the
emergency entrance, several nurses ferried the infant into an incubator, while
another team dedicated themselves to the sobbing mother. That was the last both
paramedics saw of their latest two victims.
“Man, that was rough,” Johnny said. He ran his hand through his hair and sighed
heavily. Roy nodded his head in agreement and they both headed back to the squad
that was just pulling in. Chet had driven the squad per Cap's instruction since
Johnny and Roy were both needed in transporting their victims.
“Hey guys,” Chet greeted them as he shifted to the middle seat. Roy got behind
the wheel and Johnny grabbed the microphone. “Squad 51, available.”
Chet tried to ease the heavy mood surrounding the two paramedics. “So, is the
baby doin' okay?”
“So far, Chet. So far,” responded Johnny. “But babies that small . . . they
really struggle.”
“I can't imagine that mother not being able to touch her own baby,” Chet added.
“Babies that small . . their skin is so sensitive; you could really hurt them,”
Roy said. He remembered the joy he had when his own two children were born. He
and Joanne could never put them down. It was truly a miracle. “I'm sure once
he's stabilized they'll want that mother in there every day.”
“Yea, I guess so,” Chet replied. The ride back to the station was quiet as each
man contemplated his experience with the infant. Sometimes it was just better to
not say anything.
* * * * * * *
Cap
mulled over his memo once again and decided he would just move on. After telling
his crew about the prospect, everyone remained quiet. It was the unspoken words
that affected him the most. They all had relied on each other over and over
again in many dangerous rescues. It was a bond that few understood, but every
firefighter held it close. It was this kind of brotherhood that saved them many
times during the disasters. How could he leave the tightest team he ever had the
privilege to work with. But then again, how could he turn down the assignment
knowing that it would benefit his men and the department again and again. The
new unit might even save one of their lives one day. He sighed and started
moving toward the day room.
He found Johnny and Roy working on their logbook. Both had remained gloomy after
their last rescue. Chet was busy preparing the evening meal while Mike and Marco
gazed intently on their chessboard.
“What's for supper, Chet?” Cap asked, trying to lighten the mood a little.
“Oh, it's a surprise, Cap. You'll love it!”
A low chuckle escaped Johnny's lips as he thought about Chet's surprise supper.
“Roy, don't we need to make run to Rampart for supplies?” He winked at Roy.
“Don't even try it, Gage. You wouldn't know what was good for you anyway.
Remember when I tried to get you to eat healthier foods? You proved my point . .
“
“Aw, Chet, don't go there. None of us will ever forget your 'diet' days!” Johnny
exclaimed.
“Come on, Chet. What is it?” Cap asked again, trying to peer into the pots on
the stove.
“Now, now . . don't touch! They're hot!” Chet began mumbling as he went about
chopping various vegetables. “No respect for healthy eating. No respect . .”
Johnny couldn't resist an irritated Chet Kelley. He scooted his chair back,
laying down his pencil and grinning. “Chet! I'm amazed that you'd talk to Cap
like that. Speaking of respect…”
“Shut up, Gage and go away,” Chet instructed. Cap chuckled and found a spot on
the couch next to Henry, giving a pat on the head. He waited for the next volley
of verbal sparring between Johnny and Chet.
“Lemme just help you out, okay? Here, what's in this pot?” Johnny began to lift
the lid.
“Stop it!” Chet yelled, slapping Johnny's hand on the lid.
“Ow, that hurt, Chet. Cut it out.”
“You stay away. Geez, Gage, don't you know that you're a disaster magnet. I
don't need you hanging around my supper,” Chet was thoroughly flushed and that
made Johnny happy.
Johnny moved away, hands up in the air. “Okay, okay, Chester B. You win. I won't
touch, I promise and I'll just get back to my logbook.”
“Now that's a good idea,” Roy said.
Johnny just smiled at him and settled back in his chair. The day wasn't complete
unless he found a way to get a rise out of Chet. Along with that satisfaction,
Johnny was feeling a little less gloomy and started leaning back in his chair.
“You know, Chet...”
The tones sounded causing an immediate interruption in the conversation and
relaxed tone of the day room.
“Station 51, Engine 13, Squad 16, Station 127, Station 10, Battalion 14, mine
fire and roof collapse, Old Shaft mining field, Power Plant Road, time out
16:07.”
* * * * * * *
To the casual bystander, it looked like chaos. But, to the trained eye of the
Battalion Chief, he was aware of the many teams he had deployed in this messy
rescue. Mining operations always ran high risks and he never liked the higher
percentages of lost lives in any mining emergency. This one appeared no
different. Several workers were trapped in the first level after a methane gas
explosion occurred. He was thankful that the fire appeared to be under control,
but the trapped men were running out of air. And, the foreman of the current
shift wasn't sure if everyone had been accounted for. He was still working on
confirming the work roster for the shift.
The Battalion Chief turned from his perusal of the triage area as he spotted
Captain Stanley's crew moving toward him for their assignment. He took a brief
moment to think about how the Department's new initiative for Urban Search and
Rescue unit would help tremendously in these type rescues. He was hopeful that
Hank Stanley would be a part of that effort.
“Captain Stanley, men,” the Chief acknowledged.
“Where do we need to be, Chief?”
The Chief referred to a schematic of the mine levels. He pointed to a couple of
levels below the surface with his hand. “There was a methane explosion here, and
we've got the fire contained to this area and into the forked shaft. Now,
there's a report of trapped workers here, under the first level in this corridor
where the roof collapsed. There's still communication with some banging patterns
on the metal pipes. We've got a crew on each side, working to break through the
shale and rock.”
Captain Stanley cast his eyes around to his crew. “Looks rough,” he replied.
“Hank, I need you to relieve this team at the front of the collapse. We're
working to shore up the shaft and then to dig. Your paramedics can set up with
Squad 16 in triage. We've only seen some minor injuries so far and smoke
inhalation.”
“Thanks, Chief,” Stanley responded. The crew dispersed to their assignments and
the Chief listened as the handie-talkie squawked loudly.
“Battalion 14, this is Engine 10. We've got a report of another collapse victim
further down this level,” the voice of Engine 10's captain reported.
“Engine 10, this is Battalion 14. Acknowledged. Will send a team down. 10-4.”
“10-4, Battalion 14.”
The Chief turned toward the triage area and saw the foreman coming toward him.
He seemed flushed, but remained professional.
“Okay, I think we've got it nailed down to whose left. I have these men here
that were working that level,” the foreman pointed to the map, while handing a
roster of the men to the Chief. “That would be six of them. However, it appears
that I've got one more missing on the same level. From the crew that's here, the
man was supposed to be loading the shaft elevator further down the corridor.”
“We just a got a report that another victim was discovered. We're sending
another team to that location.” The Chief thumbed his radio. “Squad 51, report
to Base command, Battalion 14.”
“10-4, Battalion 14.”
“Engine 51, this is Battalion 14.”
“Engine 51, responding.”
“Engine 51, I'm sending Squad 51 down to your location. You are to advance to
the east side of that corridor. Another man has been located by Engine 10.”
“10-4, Battalion 14. Engine 51 out.”
Roy and Johnny shifted their equipment as they approached the Chief.
“Gentlemen, we've located the last miner, here,” he said as he pointed to the
map. “I've already instructed Engine 51 to assist your rescue effort there. Good
luck,” he finished.
“Thanks, Chief,” Roy replied. They both hurried to the main mine entrance. The
Battalion Chief glanced at the waning daylight as the sun began settling in the
horizon. The array of activity continued on in the mine, unaware of the fading
day. He sighed, and then took a deep breath, preparing for a long night.
* * * * * * *
Johnny tried to grip the bio-phone with less enthusiasm as he felt the throbbing
of his palm against the inside of his glove. He concentrated on following Roy's
trek through the smoky and dark passages. Despite the lighting, mines always
felt dark and drab to Johnny. The end of the corridor gave way to a small
elevator shaft. The rest of the station was already there.
“Chet, grab their equipment and let's send it down next. We only have so much
room on this thing,” shouted Cap so he could be heard over his SCBA mask.
Johnny thankfully handed over the bio-phone and oxygen tank while Roy gave up
his pieces, too. They climbed onto the metal scaffolding and closed the bar.
Mike handled the knobs to lower the contraption down to the next level.
Screeching noises emanated from the worn and rusty fly wheels and slowly the two
paramedics were lowered further into the mine.
As they exited the metal gate, Johnny banged on it indicating it was ready for
its return trip. Roy ventured further down the lower passage and starting
calling out for the last missing man.
“Hello? Hello!” he yelled. “Can anyone hear me?”
Johnny heard the screeching metal again as Chet and Marco came down next. He
adjusted his flashlight and began following Roy leaving Chet and Marco to wait
for the next drop of equipment.
“Ya see anything?” Johnny asked loudly.
“Nothing,”
They continued on down the darker corridor and began noticing the fallen rock
and coal that littered the area. The collapse area wasn't much further. Johnny
turned around, allowing his flashlight to make a circle pattern down the
corridor he just passed through.
“Chet! Marco!” he yelled, briefly removing his mask so he could be heard. The
acrid air quickly assaulted his senses. He pulled the mask back over his face.
“Just stay there till we see what we've got!”
“Okay,” came the muffled reply from Chet.
Johnny shivered as the murky environment invaded his senses. He knew he had to
work hard at concentrating on Roy's movement due to the low lighting and the
imposing smoke. The walls were covered in a thin sheet of moisture that came
from the water being pumped into the mine to douse the flames above them.
“Roy?”
Roy stopped and put up his hand. “Shhhh …“ He leaned his head into the far wall
of the corridor. “Cap said they head the guy yelling,” Roy explained. Cap had
informed him that the crew of Engine 10 heard the yelling from their position
and the foreman of the work crew had indicated that one more man was still
unaccounted for; thus, their assignment to this part of the shaft. Above them,
they heard occasional grunts of instruction as the rescue crews above continued
on their work.
“Roy? I think we're near the other elevator shaft. In fact, it looks pretty
blocked up,” Johnny pointed to the dark area just beyond them. Large chunks of
the roof and walls were strewn high.
Roy started calling out. “Hello?? Anyone in there??”
Silence, other then the two men's labored breathing permeated the small
corridor.
Roy opened his handie-talkie. “Engine 51, this is Squad 51. Do you read?”
“We read you Squad 51, what'cha got?” Cap responded.
“Well, we've reached a dead-end and we think this is the area. No response from
the victim.” Roy knew Cap had a decision to make. Johnny knew they wanted to
find the victim alive, but was feeling a little unsure about that fact at the
moment.
“51, we'll bring some more equipment and we'll start digging. 10-4,” decided
Cap.
“10-4, Engine 51,” Roy checked his regulator and nodded with satisfaction with
the time left. They had less than two hours left before having to switch tanks
and he hoped they would know something by then.
“Okay, Junior, let's start in,” Roy said as he handed Johnny one of the pick
axes he carried.
Johnny received the tool and held his waning smile. They both knew they had to
keep up their hopes to find this victim alive. Johnny heaved his body into
swinging the ax down into the fallen rock, moving it aside.
Just then, another explosion rocked the ceiling above them causing the roof to
start cracking and dropping small pieces of shale on top of the working
paramedics. They both glanced up and immediately, Johnny shoved Roy ahead of him
back toward the way they had come into the corridor. Roy reached back and
grabbed his partner, too and they both forward until a large slab of rock
crashed down stopping Roy from going any further. With as much force as he could
muster, he wedged his ax into the tumbling avalanche of stone that continued to
drop from the roof. He didn't remember what happened next other than that his
grip on his partner was shattered as more shale dropped him to his knees. He
pulled both hands over his head and protected his facemask as his world turned
into a sea of rock.
* * * * * * *
He
coughed hard and his throat burned as he inhaled a mix of dust and smoke into
his mouth. Wait a minute, something's missing! Oh, man, not my helmet again;
Cap's gonna kill me. He coughed, harder this time and then the pain bolted
from his belly ripping into his rib cage as his muscles contracted with the
harsh cough. He almost didn't open his eyes again as that wave of pain subsided.
This is bad. Where am I? he wondered.
He tried to move from the awkward position he was currently in, but was unable
to. As his sense of awareness became stronger, he realized that he was partially
buried under shale, rock and stones. He remembered shoving Roy ahead of him as
the roof began its collapse during their retreat from the shaft. But, the rain
of rocks actually separated them and all he remembered at that point was to try
to protect his head. Unfortunately, he was without his facemask and that could
prove very dangerous. At the moment, his oxygen supply was enough to allow him
to be conscious, but he wasn't sure how long that last. His flashlight was gone
and he figured that the tank was still on his back based on the slant he was
wedged in. The pain he felt a moment ago from his last cough faded to a distant
memory.
He tried to move again, slower this time, testing the stability of the pile he
was in the middle of. He lifted his right arm, grunting as the effort taxed his
weakened body. It was a small victory, but he took it. He gingerly felt around
with his freed right hand for his facemask. Ahhh, there you are! He
grabbed it, shaking debris from the inside. With no light to guide his way, he
could only imagine the amount of dust that clung to the inside plate.
Okay, let's try my other arm. Again, using the same slow method, he began
trying to lift his left arm from the rock. Instead of the steady release of the
stones as with his other arm, he hissed in pain as he stopped. Something was
loose and it wasn't the rock. I guess it's broken. He sighed and tried to
conserve his oxygen. So much for digging my way out. Johnny released
another small sigh as the pain subsided again to a dull ache. He used his right
hand to brush as much of the debris from his chest and fumbled for the regulator
on his SCBA. He felt the smooth glass and the knob assuring himself that they
were both in working order. He adjusted the knob and reached for his mask
placing it over his face. He grinned as the fresh air filtered into his dusty
nasal passages. That's better, much better, he thought, thanking the
elements that at least he still had some air. The fresh air made him a little
woozy and he had to really work at pulling himself from a semi-conscious state.
He had to figure out what was happening next and he wanted to stay alert for
whatever rescue attempt might be made. He clung to that hope--a hope that
someone would be looking for him and Roy. Roy? Man, I hope you're okay.
Please, be okay. Johnny grew anxious as he remembered shoving Roy ahead of
him. The lack of light gave Johnny no sense of up or down. He tried to slow his
breathing down as his buried arm reminded him that it was still there. The pain
caused Johnny to emit a low groan, which in turn caused his cough to come back.
Choking on the dust, Johnny put the mask back up. The cough subsided and he
tried to relax again. He didn't fight the creeping fog this time. Roy!
* * * * * * *
“Battalion 14, this is Engine 51! We've had another roof collapse! Do you read?
We need reinforcements, now!” he shouted, while watching Chet and Marco begin to
dig down the corridor they had all last seen Johnny and Roy.
“10-4, Engine 51. Help's on the way. A secondary explosion has rattled the mine.
Hang in there, Engine 51. Battalion 14, out.”
“10-4, Battalion 14,” Cap responded gruffly, nodding his head to Mike, who was
still manning his post near the elevator. “Mike, let's get some rope and axes
and you and I'll keep shoring up these walls.”
“Sure, Cap,” Mike replied, thankful for the assignment.
Cap camp up behind his other two men, who were both grunting with their task and
the dank conditions of the air from the collapse.
“Chet, Marco, pace yourselves. We're not going to be much help if we keep this
up.”
“Right, Cap,” Marco said.
“Cap, we've got to hurry. Their air supply…” Cap patted Chet's back, sympathetic
to his feelings and already prepared to help Chet.
“Just keep it steady, Kelley, don't over do it, or I'll reassign you. Got it?”
“Okay, okay...”
Cap turned back toward Mike and helped him unload the additional equipment. The
team was barely functioning in the almost suffocating environment, but they held
together. Cap adjusted his helmet and began his own methodical pace in shoring
up the mine wall. It was all about the rescue and this moment.
* * * * * * *
Now
what I'm supposed to do about it? How the hell . . .what the…oh my God…JOHNNY??
where . . ?
Roy stirred under the loose shale and rock that surrounded him and his mind was
flooded with awareness and questions. The memory of the falling rock and the
blackness pierced through his muddled awakening and he felt the fringes of
panic. Slow… down … slow … down … breathe... he noticed he still had his
face mask on and as he checked his regulator, more rocks fell about him in his
current position.
Without any light, Roy began exploring his own predicament. Using his legs he
shoved the larger pieces aside, and noted with gladness that other than feeling
shaky, his limbs appeared to be in good working order. He reached around him
with both arms and instantly felt the limit of his space. Somehow, he ended up
in a small pocket from the collapse with only blackness surrounding him. He
turned his thoughts back to his partner. Johnny couldn't be far from me.
“J O H N N Y!” he yelled as he moved his mask past his face. “J O H N N Y!”
Nothing. No response or even an echo. Roy wasn't sure but he felt as if his
hearing had been muffled from the collapse and couldn't hear everything. He
tried again, “J O H N N Y!”
Not knowing which direction his partner would've ended up from him, he decided
to slowly dig on one side of his enclosure. Either he would reach Johnny or
hopefully he'd reach someone else looking for them. He pulled the tool from his
turnout coat and feeling his way to a point he determined was midway on his
left, he begin chipping away at the shale and rock. Okay, partner, hang in
there, wherever you are. “J O H N N Y? Can you hear me?” No answer, no
response, only the sound of the tumbling rocks as Roy continued digging.
Slow…down … slow…down…breathe, breathe… “J O H N N Y !”
* * * * * * *
“Did
you hear that?”
“What?”
“Shhhh!”
scratch .. scratch . . scratch ..
“What is ..?”
“SHHH!”
“Roy? Johnny? Can you hear me???”
scratch . . scratch . . scratch . .
“Cap? It's gotta be one of 'em!”
“JOHNNY? ROY? Can you hear me?”
“Okay, boys, let's keep at it. We're getting close.”
* * * * * * *
He
opened his eyes but saw nothing. He tried to shout, but only a groan escaped his
parched mouth. He raised his hand to his face and wasn't sure if he really felt
it or not. Every muscle protested his current position and his broken arm
throbbed mercilessly. The wheezing in his lungs made him feel heavier and the
fact that he could still move his hand to touch his face, left him wondering
why?
Why didn't she want to be touched? What was she afraid of? Her eyes only
shone with fright in response to his outstretched hand. He only wanted to help.
But she only shunned his offer. It was just his hand ..
. . blisters ran across his palm and he couldn't remember why. Why did his hand
burn and ache when he tried to check on supper. Why did Chet keep slapping his
hand? It hurt! He heard the scream . . .
. . .and tried to catch the baby, but she kept falling further down the mine
shaft. The wailing infant got further away from him and all he could do was
reach and reach and reach . .
. . .but never touched. Never to have touched my baby. Don't you understand? I
just want to hold my baby? I want her to know that I'm here. Please, let me hold
her . . the woman cried and all he could do was hold her hand . . .
. . .and it continued to burn. His reached for his face again and moved his mask
to see if he could feel that burning. But, it was to no avail. His fight for
reality wavered and his hand fell back along with his last thought of his dark
awareness.
* * * * * * *
Even
though he felt the rock give way under his continued effort to dig, he wasn't
sure about the stability of the rest of his area. But, he felt a sense of
urgency in trying to dig his way out of this and didn't think anymore of the
risk. His small tool kept scratching away, and despite his effort to slow his
breathing, he kept trying to go faster. He was sure that the guys were working
their way to him, but he hadn't heard anything yet. Which didn't instill him
with great confidence that he was relying on his own muffled ears to listen for
something.
“J O H N N Y ? “ he yelled. “Anyone??”
Tears of frustration begin to form and he willed them back. He didn't have time
to think about his situation and only needed to save his strength for finding
Johnny or finding his way out of this.
“H E L L O?” he yelled, yet again.
He stopped his digging for a minute and tried to listen. He thought he heard
something but didn't want to rely on anything but the real thing. He listened.
Ahhh! There it is! A faint scratching could be heard on the other side of
him. “OVER HERE!” he yelled facing what he thought was the right direction.
Do I keep digging? What if Johnny needs me? What if that's Johnny? Roy
mulled over his options and decided that if someone was reaching for him on that
side, then no one could reach him on the other side. Maybe no one was able to do
so. What if Johnny was injured and he couldn't dig? Roy decided that the other
side was proof that someone was there, so he continued on with his own digging.
He hoped he had made the right decision and was about to debate it again when
the hole he was working on caved in around his arm and hand. He tried to pull
back but stumbled from his awkward squatting position and fell forward with the
caving in section.
Rocks fell quickly and he tried to shift his weight to avoid being buried with
them. Instead he followed the pocket that came up with his digging and leaned
into that area. Leaning into the space he pulled his legs up from where he had
been squatting and rolled into a small ball. The rest of the shale continue to
shift and he threw his arms over his head to protect what he could until
everything settled. What've I done, now? he lamented.
* * * * * * *
“Hold up, Chet,” Marco pulled Chet away from their digging. A shifting in the
rock was evident from all their digging, but Marco heard more than their own
digging.
Cap looked up as Marco spoke. “What is it?”
“I thought I heard some rock shift. On the other side of our wall here,” Marco
pointed.
Chet swiped his forehead around his air mask and sighed. His patience level was
dropping. He hadn't wasted much time on talking, only digging. Just as they
began to dig again, the metal elevator came back down; bringing two more men
from another Engine company. Cap inwardly sighed, thankful for some relief, but
also torn about getting to his other men.
Acknowledging the newly arrived extra help, Chet and Marco stepped way and
worked at putting on their reserve tanks.
“What'da ya think, Cap?” Chet asked wearily.
“I think we're getting there. They both had tanks that were almost full. They're
gonna make it,” Cap encouraged.
“Yea, you're right. Gage is like a cat with nine lives and then DeSoto always
stays safe from all that great pixie dust that Joanne sprinkles on him every
day.”
Cap just looked at Chet not sure whether to react or not. He simply carried on,
just like he expected the rest of them to do. “Let' go, Chet, before my fairy
grandmother turns me back into a pumpkin . . .”
* * * * * * *
The
air was hissing. Hissing? Why is all that air escaping? We're gonna need that if
they're going to find us. Johnny? What's wrong?
Roy shook his head, wondering where those thoughts were coming from. He
struggled to find a sitting position, but was rewarded instead with a new roof
over his head. But he still heard hissing, as if air was escaping...a facemask!
“Johnny? Johnny? Are you here? Johnny?” Roy immediately tried to shift forward
by crawling. Apparently his digging caused a part of his wall to fall in and now
he hoped that if found the facemask, he'd find his partner. He inched further,
listening for the air. With outstretched hands, he kept feeling his way along
the darkness and…there it is! A facemask with fresh air coming from it.
He ripped his glove from his hand and with great relief he quickly found the
exposed face of his partner.
“Johnny? Johnny?” Roy carefully examined the clammy face he couldn't see but
knew so well. Wheezing breath sounds and a light sweat confirmed to Roy that his
partner was still alive, although not doing well. He placed the mask back on,
and let his pent-up tears well forward. He didn't stop them this time, because
he needed to feel the release. Relief that in all this blackness, he was not
alone anymore, and that Johnny was still alive.
Trying to assess in current situation, he felt along for injuries to Johnny. The
only exposed areas were his right arm and hand, some of his chest to his waist.
Other than that, all Roy could tell was that Johnny was wedged in pretty tight.
He rested for the moment, listening for any further indications that help was on
the way. Even though his new spot was tighter, he wouldn't have traded it for
anything, so as long as Johnny was okay. He laid his head on his one hand and
covered Johnny's hand with his other, content to know that he had found Johnny.
His weariness settled in and he rested.
* * * * * * * *
Warmth emanated from his hand to his very soul. He basked in the refreshing
light that had surrounded his heart and moved to embrace it. But as he reached
forward, the light broke into shards of dark rock and endless shale. He
groaned, trying to cover his eyes but could only make a feeble sound as a new
reality entered his addled mind. As he moved his one free hand, another hand
moved with it. A new panic hit Johnny since he couldn't see anything, and the
pain from his side and arm gripped him anew.
“Ahhh…” came a gruff cry from his lips. The other hand suddenly gripped his.
“Johnny, shhh…Johnny…it's me, Roy…shh,” came the voice Johnny didn't expect to
hear.
Johnny stopped struggling, letting Roy's hand hold his own under its strength.
He tried to speak, but only another groan came.
“Shhh, Johnny…it's okay…It's Roy.”
“…r o y …?” a whisper finally came.
“Yes, Johnny. You've been hurt. Try to be still."
Shock continued to course through Johnny's being, but with Roy's grip, he
started to focus on that. He gasped as the pain jabbed harsher this time, and
with that new pain, his own hand squeezed Roy's harder.
“Just hang on, Johnny.” Roy held his partner's hand, confident that it would
keep his injured friend focused on him and not the pain. It was all Roy had to
offer right now…his own strength and resolve.
“ . . .h o w?”
“Just kept digging. Shhh…rest your voice… concentrate on breathing…okay?”
“…r o y …so … dark.”
“I know, I know… I know someone's trying to get through. I heard them earlier.”
“…g o o d … ahhhh,” Johnny gasped again as another deep ache throttled his
buried arm. “…
'm arm…h u r t s …”
“Hang on, partner. Hang on.”
Roy's only response was a weak squeeze in his hand. They both held on.
* * * * * * *
The
fuzz of hair on the baby's head was softer than anything she had experienced.
Her fingertips lightly brushed over the top of her daughter's head and then she
softly traced the perfectly closed eyes and the tiny ears. While rocking her
baby gently, she put her finger under the curled tiny fingers. Her baby
responded by wrapping those tiny fingers around her one finger and the mother
cried quiet tears of joy. The woman looked back at Johnny and said, “See? I just
needed to hold her and everything would be all right, just like I thought. See?”
Johnny shuddered under a blanket of fear and darkness…
His world shifted again as the older woman relaxed under his strong arm of
support. Her fear had disappeared and she smiled at Johnny as he walked her back
to the sidewalk. “Don't ever forget that the power of touch is a healing power.
Physical contact sometimes offers comfort that words never could. My own son
never understood that. See?”
His outstretched hand jerked as the visions swam in front of him. He panted with
effort as he struggled to determine what was real and where he really was. And
once again, during his delirium and shock, Roy's gentle and warm hand continued
to cover his and assure him in that small way, that he was still connected to
reality. The power of touch is a healing power . . .
He could no longer talk and other than the pain-filled jolts that assaulted his
body, Johnny's only other response level was with his good hand. Roy was careful
to conserve as much as he could since their air would be gone soon. He was
frustrated that he didn't have the energy to do much else other than hold on to
his partner, but he was determined to at least do that. Johnny's regulator had
given its warning alarm over ten minutes ago. They didn't have much time and
with the on set of Johnny's more ragged breath sounds, Roy knew that his air was
pretty much gone. Roy prepared to move closer to Johnny to share his last
minutes of air with him. He knew he wouldn't get a fight, since Johnny was
already unconscious again.
* * * * * * *
Muffled voices danced around inside his head and he tried to breath slow.
Slow…down…slow…down…breathe… breathe…
“He's ready to roll…”
“10-4, Rampart…”
“ … we'll meet you at the hospital…”
“…easy there, okay on three…”
“Everyone's out …”
Out? What about Johnny? Everyone? breathe . . .breathe . . .
“Okay, Roy, let's…”
He suddenly remembered that his hand was no longer warm. Johnny? He
grabbed for the closest thing to him . . . someone's arm. “Johnny?” he managed
to say through the oxygen mask.
The sweat soaked face of a paramedic from Squad 36, smiled down at Roy. “That
partner of yours is on his way to Rampart right now. He's alive, Roy. He's
alive,” the man clasped Roy's hand and settled it back down on the gurney as it
was lifted into the waiting ambulance. Roy closed his eyes in thankfulness and
allowed the rush of voices and activity fade into the background as he dreamed
of warm sunshine and fresh air.
* * * * * * *
The
last of the units were cleaning up and rolling their hoses back onto the trucks.
The Battalion Chief turned away from his radio command table and looked at the
worn out faces of the men before him. The last man was discovered in the second
shaft, but he didn't make it. That had ended their rescue efforts as they
contained the fire. Now, the state Mining board was ready to handle the rest of
the cleanup and would work with the Fire Department on determining the cause of
the fire and collapse.
Captain Stanley along with three other Captains had stopped to report to the
Chief about their wrap-up and any further instructions. Cap leaned his lanky
frame against the table and rubbed his sooty eyes. It felt to good to be
breathing regular air again after his long exposure on the second level. This
rescue weighed heavily on him since two of his own men were injured in their
rescue attempt. His decision to work with the newly formed committee for the
Urban Search and Rescue Unit was made after they had finally pulled Johnny out.
Despite their own training and years of experience, some rescues just required
specialized equipment and more specific training. He was determined that one of
his own would not be jeopardized again if he could find a way to make all of
their jobs safer.
“Hank, let me express my best wishes on a speedy recovery of your men. Good
job,” the Chief had extended his hand, bringing Cap out of his own thoughts.
“Everyone did a good job, today, men. Let's be sure to get our log reports in on
this. Our new committee will want to use this information for further research.”
The men all expressed their appreciation and headed to their respective crews.
Engine 51 was ready to roll with her very tired and worn-out crew. Cap climbed
up to his seat and sighed. It would be hard to leave his crew for a while, but
he knew he had to. He had to work to make things better. They were still family,
still brothers. Nothing would change that. “Mike, let's go home.”
“Okay, Cap,” Mike responded.
* * * * * * *
“Do
you think we could?” Johnny asked, hope surrounding his words. Roy smiled back
at his partner, who still remained at Rampart. It had a been a long week for
Johnny. He had to battle the effects to his lungs from their ordeal. He had also
suffered a severe break in his left arm with a couple of broken ribs to the same
side. Now, that he was moved to his own room, today, he was certainly starting
to show definite signs of recovery.
“Now, why do you want to go there, again?” Roy had to ask. He knew that Johnny
had suffered emotionally from their dark surroundings but wasn't sure he
understood entirely.
Johnny glanced at Roy and then stared at a space beyond Roy, recalling his dark
surroundings from the mine collapse. He kept staring, remembering the awful
feeling of being cut off from everything and everyone and then the one reminder
that he still had to hang on … and that was knowing Roy was there by the touch
of his hand.
“It was all in the touch,” Johnny responded. Roy remained silent, knowing that
Johnny was working his way through his feelings. “Remember that woman, Roy? Do
you remember how frightened she was that we wanted to help her? She just
couldn't stand to think we would touch her?”
Roy nodded, remembering the entire event.
“Well, then, that birth? I kept having dreams about that mother, Roy. I just
want to know that she's been…able…well…to,” Johnny struggled to articulate his
feelings, which he didn't do often enough, but enough with Roy to know that he
was still with him.
“To touch her baby?” Roy finished for him.
“Yea, Roy. That's it. Exactly.” Johnny smiled a small smile. “I want that baby
to know …to know the power of his mother's touch.”
Roy thought back to his need to hold on to Johnny's hand during their own
rescue. Leave it to his partner to once again remind him of the small,
overlooked lessons in life. Roy had always taken for granted with his own
children, the healing power of touch. And with Johnny's only link in a world of
darkness and pain, Roy had made sure his hand was there--to give Johnny all that
he had for that moment. He just never realized how deeply that moved him. And
how deeply it had affected Johnny.
“I think I can probably twist a few arms around here, to get that visit in,” Roy
replied.
Johnny settled back into his pillows, a contented smile on his face. “Thanks,
Roy.”
It was all that was said that afternoon. And later that evening, while a woman
named Stacey, rocked her infant to sleep in the neonatal unit at Rampart, two
paramedics silently watched and remembered their own bond through the power of
one hand.
Special thanks to CeCe and Mia for beta reads and suggestions! I've always wanted to share something wonderful I learned from an elderly person one day . . she said that as you grow older, you still need the powerful gesture of "touch"--a hug, a handshake or a pat on the back. I hope you consider this story my way of sending a {cyber-hug} to all of you
*Click above to send Robin W. feedback
Guest Dispatchers Stories by Robin W.
