Fresno Fire Department Captain Pete Dern Conquers the Pain to Heal From Each Burn

I've come home and become a part again of what makes Fresno great.
The heart of California, is caring, generous, and first rate!

The fire captain, "on top of things"

Walked onto the roof that day

You never know what each fire brings

The flames were not kept at bay

The fire swallowed him whole, it seemed

As he suddenly disappeared

It was a nightmare- the worst dreamed

Death was certain, everyone feared

An heroic effort was made

To rescue "one of their own"

They cut through to where he laid

It was the worst two minutes known

He had been engulfed and nearly consumed

When they carried his body out

70% burned, DEATH was presumed

But, this was NO time for doubt

Still... searing pain has been the only way back

As this man works to rise up and walk again

He gives thanks for each series of healing skin grafts

And the support of loved ones and friends