Nebraska firefighters celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the clock, sharing a meal with their ‘extended family’

By Kalé Searcy

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    BELLEVUE, Nebraska (KETV) — Accidents or emergencies can happen at any time, even on Thanksgiving Day.

First responders across the country and here in Nebraska are working tirelessly to keep the community safe while they spend the day at home.

“We have to be ready to help and we have to be ready to respond whenever they call, no matter if it’s a holiday or not,” said Ben Burbridge, captain at Bellevue Fire Station One.

Burbridge has been a firefighter for 14 years. He knows as a first responder, the job comes with sacrifices.

“They’re all people that I enjoy being around. So if I can’t be with my family, at least I can be with my friends,” Burbridge said.

This year though, Burbridge said spending the holiday away from family is even more difficult than in years past.

“This one is my first one where I’m away from my son. It’s his first Thanksgiving,” Burbridge said.

Between the many calls they receive each day, the guys at the station took the time to share a meal with each other.

“We cook a big feast, and everybody kind of brings their own potluck side dish and we get to have a big dinner,” said Jordon Foster, a Bellevue firefighter and paramedic.

Foster said at the station, they create their own holiday traditions through the dishes they bring while reflecting on what they’re thankful for.

“Always grateful for my family,” Foster said.

“For the opportunity to be a firefighter for the city of Bellevue,” added firefighter Tyler Boyer.

Despite the long hours, the risk of danger and the lack of sleep, these men said they love what they do by being there for the community.

“To help somebody when it’s the worst day of their life really means something to me,” Burbridge said.

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