Gary R. Ryman's Blog, page 21
August 9, 2011
Some assembly required
Christmas was always special when I was growing up. We were up before dawn to see what Santa had brought. I was a true believer. One year I had even heard the hooves of the reindeer tapping on the roof of our house while Santa was making his delivery.
One year, one of the presents I was getting was a multiple level gas station, parking garage type structure, in which you could drive and park and pretend to work on, your match box cars. My sister was receiving something called the Imagination doll house. Both were "some assembly required," and apparently had somewhere in excess of a gazillion pieces.
My sister and I were in bed, sound asleep, which we knew was important, 'cause Santa wouldn't come if you were awake. Mom and Dad were getting out the hidden presents and the toys which needed assembly when the Grinch decided to pay a visit in the form of a house fire. The Plectron, the "pager" of those days, went off, and so did Dad into the night, leaving Mom to complete the present distribution, and more importantly, the toy assembly.
Dad did make it back before we woke up to greet Christmas morning, but just barely. As usual we were wide eyed and thrilled with everything Santa had brought. Mom and Dad were not; both a bit blurry eyed from lack of sleep.
Years later, after the Santa years, Mom would regularly retell the story of that Christmas Eve, and have us in stitches as she described the "millions of pieces necessary" to complete the assembly of the toys that year. She stayed up all night, the elf completing Santa's work.
One year, one of the presents I was getting was a multiple level gas station, parking garage type structure, in which you could drive and park and pretend to work on, your match box cars. My sister was receiving something called the Imagination doll house. Both were "some assembly required," and apparently had somewhere in excess of a gazillion pieces.
My sister and I were in bed, sound asleep, which we knew was important, 'cause Santa wouldn't come if you were awake. Mom and Dad were getting out the hidden presents and the toys which needed assembly when the Grinch decided to pay a visit in the form of a house fire. The Plectron, the "pager" of those days, went off, and so did Dad into the night, leaving Mom to complete the present distribution, and more importantly, the toy assembly.
Dad did make it back before we woke up to greet Christmas morning, but just barely. As usual we were wide eyed and thrilled with everything Santa had brought. Mom and Dad were not; both a bit blurry eyed from lack of sleep.
Years later, after the Santa years, Mom would regularly retell the story of that Christmas Eve, and have us in stitches as she described the "millions of pieces necessary" to complete the assembly of the toys that year. She stayed up all night, the elf completing Santa's work.
August 8, 2011
The Story of a Writer review
The Story of a Writer
August 8, 2011
The Story of a Family of Firemen
by Beverly Stowe McClure
I am delighted to introduce you today to some of our true-life heroes, not the ones in movies and books. Meet Gary R. Ryman, the second of three generations of firefighters in his family.
FIRE MEN, STORIES FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF A FIREFIGHTING FAMILY
By Gary R. Ryman
Book Courtesy of Tribute Books
The sirens blare as the fire truck races down the street. Firefighters on their way to another fire or accident, we think, and are thankful our house is safe or our family or someone we know aren't injured. But do we ever stop to think what being a fireman is really like. Sure, they visit schools and teach fire safety. They answer alarms for drownings, auto accidents, fires, and other things we can't even imagine. Well, if you've ever wondered about or thought of becoming a firefighter there is a book out that will give you an inside look at what it's like. You may be surprised.
Author Gary R. Ryman has written a book about three generations of firemen in his family: his father Richard Ryman, himself, and his son Mike. From battling house fires to administering aid at auto accidents, to saving babies' lives the author takes the reader along with him and his fellow firemen. The scenes are so vivid that sometimes I could almost smell the smoke and feel the heat of a roaring blaze. The author also talks about trust among firefighters. For example, you don't leave your partner alone in a fire. He mentions, too, that being a firefighter is a "thankless job" at times. So why does he do it? Why do others do it? For Gary Ryman it's "the satisfaction of doing something only a small percentage of people can do--entering buildings being consumed by fire and having the skill to save lives." Some of the calls are funny, but I'll let you enjoy reading about those yourself. Others are sad and make you appreciate the bravery and dedications of the firefighters.
FIRE MEN, STORIES FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF A FIREFIGHTING FAMILY tells a great story about the joys and the sadness of the job. Of course, fire departments in different towns, large and small, would be a bit different. But they all have one thing in common: saving lives and property. As the wife of a retired firefighter, I recommend this book for a close look at the brave men and women who we take for granted, but who we want to be there when duty calls.
Book web site:
http://www.fire-men-book.com
Book Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall
Gary Ryman Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman
Tribute Books website:http://www.tribute-books.com
Tribute Books Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbald-PA/Tribute-Books/171628704176
Tribute Books Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks
Buy links:http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
Excerpt:http://fire-men-book.blogspot.com/search/label/Read an Excerpt
Thank you, Gary and your family for all you do.
August 8, 2011
The Story of a Family of Firemen
by Beverly Stowe McClure
I am delighted to introduce you today to some of our true-life heroes, not the ones in movies and books. Meet Gary R. Ryman, the second of three generations of firefighters in his family.
FIRE MEN, STORIES FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF A FIREFIGHTING FAMILY
By Gary R. Ryman
Book Courtesy of Tribute Books
The sirens blare as the fire truck races down the street. Firefighters on their way to another fire or accident, we think, and are thankful our house is safe or our family or someone we know aren't injured. But do we ever stop to think what being a fireman is really like. Sure, they visit schools and teach fire safety. They answer alarms for drownings, auto accidents, fires, and other things we can't even imagine. Well, if you've ever wondered about or thought of becoming a firefighter there is a book out that will give you an inside look at what it's like. You may be surprised.
Author Gary R. Ryman has written a book about three generations of firemen in his family: his father Richard Ryman, himself, and his son Mike. From battling house fires to administering aid at auto accidents, to saving babies' lives the author takes the reader along with him and his fellow firemen. The scenes are so vivid that sometimes I could almost smell the smoke and feel the heat of a roaring blaze. The author also talks about trust among firefighters. For example, you don't leave your partner alone in a fire. He mentions, too, that being a firefighter is a "thankless job" at times. So why does he do it? Why do others do it? For Gary Ryman it's "the satisfaction of doing something only a small percentage of people can do--entering buildings being consumed by fire and having the skill to save lives." Some of the calls are funny, but I'll let you enjoy reading about those yourself. Others are sad and make you appreciate the bravery and dedications of the firefighters.
FIRE MEN, STORIES FROM THREE GENERATIONS OF A FIREFIGHTING FAMILY tells a great story about the joys and the sadness of the job. Of course, fire departments in different towns, large and small, would be a bit different. But they all have one thing in common: saving lives and property. As the wife of a retired firefighter, I recommend this book for a close look at the brave men and women who we take for granted, but who we want to be there when duty calls.
Book web site:
http://www.fire-men-book.com
Book Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall
Gary Ryman Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman
Tribute Books website:http://www.tribute-books.com
Tribute Books Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbald-PA/Tribute-Books/171628704176
Tribute Books Twitter:http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks
Buy links:http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
Excerpt:http://fire-men-book.blogspot.com/search/label/Read an Excerpt
Thank you, Gary and your family for all you do.
August 4, 2011
CMash Loves to Read guest post & ebook giveaway entry link
CMash Loves to Read
August 4, 2011
Guest Author Gary Ryman
by Cheryl Masciarelli
I can honestly say that I have enjoyed each and every day since I have found this wonderful community of book blogging. Every day there is always something new to get excited about, be it, meeting a new blogger, adding more books to the ever growing TBR list, finding a new book, discussing a book just read and the list goes on. Today, I am thrilled about another new and exciting event. Nicole, from Tribute Books , has graciously invited me to be part of her tour group and today is the first time I am hosting!! And what a way to start. With the anniversary of 911 next month, Nicole is introducing us to author and fireman Gary Ryman. So please help me give him a warm welcome to the CMash blog!!!
[image error] ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gary R. Ryman is the second of three generations of firefighters. He has a bachelor's degree in Fire Science from the University of Maryland and has been employed as a fire protection engineer for over twenty-five years. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in American History. Ryman is married with two children. His oldest son makes up the third generation of firefighters in his family, which makes him feel both old and young at the same time.
GUEST POST Slightly more than a month from now we will observe an important anniversary; one significant to firefighter's nation wide. On September 11, 2001, among the thousands of others who died that day, 343 firefighters perished. Beyond New York City, firefighters from Pennsylvania, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland worked for days—the initial responders to tragedy, as always.
The constant news coverage increased the understanding and respect of the important service that firefighters provide throughout the country. Communities small and large recognized that these are the initial troops, not just for a terrorist attack, but in the daily battles fought against emergencies. Firefighters were feted and praised and more importantly, supported in their needs for equipment and training. Time, however, is a great healer, and the lack of successful additional attacks has lessened the importance of fire departments in the mind of many. Fires, as we all know, only happen to other people, not me. Budget problems, financial difficulties, and simply the passage of time have dulled our memories of the sacrifices made on that day and those before and since. The responsibilities of our firefighters, though, continue to increase as they are expected to handle each new hazard which arises in our communities.
Nothing has changed, however. As before 9/11, firefighters continue to be killed and injured. Thankfully not in the numbers of that day, but die they still do. Hopefully this anniversary will remind communities of all sizes of the protection afforded them by their firefighters. We think of two sureties in life: death and taxes. There is, however, one more. Dial 911 and the firefighters will come. On 9/11, and the days which follow, let's remember that.
You can find Gary Ryman at the following sites:
Book web site: http://www.fire-men-book.com/ Book Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall Gary Ryman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman Tribute Books website: http://www.tribute-books.com/
Buy links: http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
[image error] ABOUT THE BOOK Having served over thirty years in fire departments across three states, Gary R. Ryman brings a unique perspective to the firefighting experience. The son and father of firefighters, Ryman ignites the fire, smoke, blood and fear spanning three generations of the "family business." He recounts his early days in upstate New York learning from his father, the department fire chief. He describes the blazes he battled with a career and volunteer crew in the crowded suburbs of Washington, D.C. He examines the mentoring relationship established with his son as they respond to the calls of a volunteer department in rural Pennsylvania. Overall, Ryman shares both the personal and professional turning points that define a firefighting career.
THANKS TO NICOLE FROM TRIBUTE BOOKS AND AUTHOR, GARY RYMAN, I HAVE THREE (3) EBOOK EDITIONS OF THIS TRUE STORY TO GIVE AWAY.
CLICK HERE TO BRING YOU TO THE GIVEAWAY ENTRY PAGE.
[image error] 
August 4, 2011
Guest Author Gary Ryman
by Cheryl Masciarelli
I can honestly say that I have enjoyed each and every day since I have found this wonderful community of book blogging. Every day there is always something new to get excited about, be it, meeting a new blogger, adding more books to the ever growing TBR list, finding a new book, discussing a book just read and the list goes on. Today, I am thrilled about another new and exciting event. Nicole, from Tribute Books , has graciously invited me to be part of her tour group and today is the first time I am hosting!! And what a way to start. With the anniversary of 911 next month, Nicole is introducing us to author and fireman Gary Ryman. So please help me give him a warm welcome to the CMash blog!!!
[image error] ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gary R. Ryman is the second of three generations of firefighters. He has a bachelor's degree in Fire Science from the University of Maryland and has been employed as a fire protection engineer for over twenty-five years. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in American History. Ryman is married with two children. His oldest son makes up the third generation of firefighters in his family, which makes him feel both old and young at the same time.
GUEST POST Slightly more than a month from now we will observe an important anniversary; one significant to firefighter's nation wide. On September 11, 2001, among the thousands of others who died that day, 343 firefighters perished. Beyond New York City, firefighters from Pennsylvania, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Maryland worked for days—the initial responders to tragedy, as always.
The constant news coverage increased the understanding and respect of the important service that firefighters provide throughout the country. Communities small and large recognized that these are the initial troops, not just for a terrorist attack, but in the daily battles fought against emergencies. Firefighters were feted and praised and more importantly, supported in their needs for equipment and training. Time, however, is a great healer, and the lack of successful additional attacks has lessened the importance of fire departments in the mind of many. Fires, as we all know, only happen to other people, not me. Budget problems, financial difficulties, and simply the passage of time have dulled our memories of the sacrifices made on that day and those before and since. The responsibilities of our firefighters, though, continue to increase as they are expected to handle each new hazard which arises in our communities.
Nothing has changed, however. As before 9/11, firefighters continue to be killed and injured. Thankfully not in the numbers of that day, but die they still do. Hopefully this anniversary will remind communities of all sizes of the protection afforded them by their firefighters. We think of two sureties in life: death and taxes. There is, however, one more. Dial 911 and the firefighters will come. On 9/11, and the days which follow, let's remember that.
You can find Gary Ryman at the following sites:
Book web site: http://www.fire-men-book.com/ Book Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall Gary Ryman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman Tribute Books website: http://www.tribute-books.com/
Buy links: http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
[image error] ABOUT THE BOOK Having served over thirty years in fire departments across three states, Gary R. Ryman brings a unique perspective to the firefighting experience. The son and father of firefighters, Ryman ignites the fire, smoke, blood and fear spanning three generations of the "family business." He recounts his early days in upstate New York learning from his father, the department fire chief. He describes the blazes he battled with a career and volunteer crew in the crowded suburbs of Washington, D.C. He examines the mentoring relationship established with his son as they respond to the calls of a volunteer department in rural Pennsylvania. Overall, Ryman shares both the personal and professional turning points that define a firefighting career.
THANKS TO NICOLE FROM TRIBUTE BOOKS AND AUTHOR, GARY RYMAN, I HAVE THREE (3) EBOOK EDITIONS OF THIS TRUE STORY TO GIVE AWAY.
CLICK HERE TO BRING YOU TO THE GIVEAWAY ENTRY PAGE.
[image error]
RunToTheCurb.com web radio interview - Aug. 10 at 9 p.m.
Firefighter Netcast
August 4, 2011
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Tiger Schmittendorf
Tiger Schmittendorf welcomes Firefighter and Author Gary Ryman as his guest on this installment (August 10, 9 p.m. Eastern) of his Firefighter Storytellers radio show (Runtothecurb.com) right here on the Fire Rescue Network. 
August 4, 2011
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Tiger Schmittendorf
Tiger Schmittendorf welcomes Firefighter and Author Gary Ryman as his guest on this installment (August 10, 9 p.m. Eastern) of his Firefighter Storytellers radio show (Runtothecurb.com) right here on the Fire Rescue Network. Gary is the author of "Fire-Men" – a newly released autobiography of three generations of firefighters in the Ryman family, a tradition that started with Gary's father and continues today in Gary's son Michael. Listen in as Gary and Tiger share their adventures and their stories of life in the fire service.
Tiger also introduces a new and exciting relationship with Fireman's Fund Insurance and their renowned Heritage Program which has awarded more than $28 million to fire departments for needed equipment, firefighter training and community education programs.
Tiger will be giving away copies of the video DVD titled: "Into the Fire" to selected guests who call into the show to share their story.
Produced by Firemen's Fund Insurance and just like Tiger's site Run-to-the-Curb and his Firefighter Storytellers radio show – "Into the Fire" shares the stories of firefighters across America and what brought them to the fire service.
Sit around the firehouse and listen in to this exciting show and don't forget to visit www.RuntotheCurb.com and tell us your story.
You can buy "Fire Men: Stories From Three Generations of a Firefighting Family" here
Firefighter Netcast web radio interview - Aug. 10 at 9 p.m.
Firefighter Netcast
August 4, 2011
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Tiger Schmittendorf
Tiger Schmittendorf welcomes Firefighter and Author Gary Ryman as his guest on this installment (August 10, 9 p.m. Eastern) of his Firefighter Storytellers radio show right here on the Fire Rescue Network.
August 4, 2011
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Tiger Schmittendorf
Tiger Schmittendorf welcomes Firefighter and Author Gary Ryman as his guest on this installment (August 10, 9 p.m. Eastern) of his Firefighter Storytellers radio show right here on the Fire Rescue Network. Gary is the author of "Fire-Men" – a newly released autobiography of three generations of firefighters in the Ryman family, a tradition that started with Gary's father and continues today in Gary's son Michael. Listen in as Gary and Tiger share their adventures and their stories of life in the fire service.
Tiger also introduces a new and exciting relationship with Fireman's Fund Insurance and their renowned Heritage Program which has awarded more than $28 million to fire departments for needed equipment, firefighter training and community education programs.
Tiger will be giving away copies of the video DVD titled: "Into the Fire" to selected guests who call into the show to share their story.
Produced by Firemen's Fund Insurance and just like Tiger's site Run-to-the-Curb and his Firefighter Storytellers radio show – "Into the Fire" shares the stories of firefighters across America and what brought them to the fire service.
Sit around the firehouse and listen in to this exciting show and don't forget to visit www.RuntotheCurb.com and tell us your story.
You can buy "Fire Men: Stories From Three Generations of a Firefighting Family" here
August 2, 2011
The Book Connection interview
The Book Connection
August 2, 2011
Interview with Gary Ryman, Author of Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Cheryl Malandrinos
Joining us today is Gary Ryman, author of
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
Gary is the second of three generations of firefighters. He has a bachelor's degree in Fire Science from the University of Maryland and has been employed as a fire protection engineer for over twenty-five years. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in American History. Ryman is married with two children. His oldest son makes up the third generation of firefighters in his family, which makes him feel both old and young at the same time.
Welcome to The Book Connection, Gary. It's an honor to have you with us. Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small burg called West Corners in upstate New York.
What is your fondest childhood memory?
One of my favorite things to do when I was small was go to the fire station with my father. He would work on whatever project he was involved with and I would climb all over the coolest jungle gym in the world, fire trucks.
When did you begin writing?
I've been writing in one form or another for most of my life, though most of that was school and then work related. I began writing for publication about five or six years ago.
Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?
I try to write whenever I can sneak some time. I try, but fail, to write even for at least a few minutes every day.
What is this book about?
This book is about the stories and experiences of three generations of firefighters. I am the second of the three or the middle of the Oreo. It relates the good, bad, ugly, and funny aspects of firefighting. I try to relate how those experiences affect us.
What inspired you to write it?
Having told many of these stories around the firehouse and to friends and family for years, and having worn out those audiences, I thought perhaps other people might enjoy them. Being both the son and father of firefighters gave me an unusual perspective.
Was the road to publication smooth sailing or a bumpy ride?
My road to publication was bumpier than some and smoother than others. In the end, I was lucky enough to connect with a great publisher, Tribute Books (http://tribute-books.com/index.html), where I have received incredible support.
If you knew then, what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?
The easy answer would be to start where I ended up! Really though, I think the search process, submittals, and rejections all made for a valuable learning experience.
Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?
The book is available on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble.com. It is also available in a variety of e-book formats including Kindle, Nook, Google e-book, Borders, and Apple iBooks. It is also available directly from the publisher.
Do you have a website and/or blog where readers can find out more?
Readers can visit my website at http://www.fire-men-book.com/.
Do you have a video trailer to promote your book? If yes, where can readers find it?
My book trailer is posted on the website and also at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_f77Nwe5rA4
What is up next for you?
I'm working on two rather disparate projects. One is the thesis for my Masters degree in American History that I would love to turn into a short book. I've become fascinated by Gifford Pinchot and particularly in the two terms he served as Governor of Pennsylvania. The other project is a novel which is naturally about firefighters. I'm also getting requests from readers for another book of real stories, but I haven't done anything with that idea yet.
Thank you for spending time with us today, Gary. We wish you great success.
Information from the Publisher:
Book web site: http://www.fire-men-book.com/
Book Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall
Gary Ryman Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman
Tribute Books website: http://www.tribute-books.com/
Tribute Books Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbald-PA/Tribute-Books/171628704176
Tribute Books Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks
Buy links:
http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
Excerpt:
http://fire-men-book.blogspot.com/search/label/Read an Excerpt
August 2, 2011
Interview with Gary Ryman, Author of Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
by Cheryl Malandrinos
Joining us today is Gary Ryman, author of
Fire Men: Stories from Three Generations of a Firefighting Family
Gary is the second of three generations of firefighters. He has a bachelor's degree in Fire Science from the University of Maryland and has been employed as a fire protection engineer for over twenty-five years. He is currently pursuing a master's degree in American History. Ryman is married with two children. His oldest son makes up the third generation of firefighters in his family, which makes him feel both old and young at the same time.
Welcome to The Book Connection, Gary. It's an honor to have you with us. Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small burg called West Corners in upstate New York.
What is your fondest childhood memory?
One of my favorite things to do when I was small was go to the fire station with my father. He would work on whatever project he was involved with and I would climb all over the coolest jungle gym in the world, fire trucks.
When did you begin writing?
I've been writing in one form or another for most of my life, though most of that was school and then work related. I began writing for publication about five or six years ago.
Do you write during the day, at night or whenever you can sneak a few moments?
I try to write whenever I can sneak some time. I try, but fail, to write even for at least a few minutes every day.
What is this book about?
This book is about the stories and experiences of three generations of firefighters. I am the second of the three or the middle of the Oreo. It relates the good, bad, ugly, and funny aspects of firefighting. I try to relate how those experiences affect us.
What inspired you to write it?
Having told many of these stories around the firehouse and to friends and family for years, and having worn out those audiences, I thought perhaps other people might enjoy them. Being both the son and father of firefighters gave me an unusual perspective.
Was the road to publication smooth sailing or a bumpy ride?
My road to publication was bumpier than some and smoother than others. In the end, I was lucky enough to connect with a great publisher, Tribute Books (http://tribute-books.com/index.html), where I have received incredible support.
If you knew then, what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?
The easy answer would be to start where I ended up! Really though, I think the search process, submittals, and rejections all made for a valuable learning experience.
Where can readers purchase a copy of your book?
The book is available on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble.com. It is also available in a variety of e-book formats including Kindle, Nook, Google e-book, Borders, and Apple iBooks. It is also available directly from the publisher.
Do you have a website and/or blog where readers can find out more?
Readers can visit my website at http://www.fire-men-book.com/.
Do you have a video trailer to promote your book? If yes, where can readers find it?
My book trailer is posted on the website and also at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_f77Nwe5rA4
What is up next for you?
I'm working on two rather disparate projects. One is the thesis for my Masters degree in American History that I would love to turn into a short book. I've become fascinated by Gifford Pinchot and particularly in the two terms he served as Governor of Pennsylvania. The other project is a novel which is naturally about firefighters. I'm also getting requests from readers for another book of real stories, but I haven't done anything with that idea yet.
Thank you for spending time with us today, Gary. We wish you great success.
Information from the Publisher:
Book web site: http://www.fire-men-book.com/
Book Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176#!/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall
Gary Ryman Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/gary.ryman
Tribute Books website: http://www.tribute-books.com/
Tribute Books Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Archbald-PA/Tribute-Books/171628704176
Tribute Books Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/TributeBooks
Buy links:
http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#biography1
Excerpt:
http://fire-men-book.blogspot.com/search/label/Read an Excerpt
August 1, 2011
Average Jake Firefighter Blog review
Average Jake Firefighter Blog
August 1, 2011
Book Review: Fire Men
by Jake
Fire Men is told from the view-point of Gary Ryman, and is about three generations of a firefighting family. The book starts off with Ryman detailing his fathers entry into the volunteer fire service, and the various incidents that shaped his interest into following in his fathers footsteps. 
August 1, 2011
Book Review: Fire Men
by Jake
Fire Men is told from the view-point of Gary Ryman, and is about three generations of a firefighting family. The book starts off with Ryman detailing his fathers entry into the volunteer fire service, and the various incidents that shaped his interest into following in his fathers footsteps. A large portion of the book details Gary's journey in the fire service as he goes to his first fire, becomes a company officer, is a live in firefighter while attending college, and eventually making it to the chief officer ranks.
Finally the book details the beginning of Gary's son Mike as he beings to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, and father as a third generation fireman.
My self being a second generation fireman I have definitely felt a lot of the emotions that the author has experienced. My dad has been a fireman for around 30 years in various capacities (industrial, volunteer, and career) and me and my brother have been in the same position as the author on several instances coming up under someone with a lot of knowledge and background, learning from him, getting scolded for doing something dumb, and finally succeeding and getting to a level where he viewed us as equals and not just his sons. So on that level I really enjoyed the book as I could relate to it. I can also relate to being a young fire officer in a volunteer organization, then having kids and having to cut back (or stop all together in my case).
One thing that was both positive and negative was how the book was layed out. The book is a lot like a firehouse BS session, while good it is sometimes hard to follow. The author will tell a detailed account of an incident, and state that was not the only call that would be horrible that day (or some other teaser) then never talk about it or mention it again. I found this a little frustrating as it could have led to more detail of the story. I also wish there would have been a little more on his "live in" experience while attending college. I feel like that alone is another whole book and I hope him or some other author out there visits this topic, I would surely like to read it, and if I could go back and do it over again it I would have chosen that path to pursue my college education.
Overall this is a good read, and shows how the fire service has progressed over three generations. I definitely recommend picking it up and giving it a chance.
You can pick up the book here: http://www.fire-men-book.com
You can also become a fan of the book on face book: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fire-Men-Stories-from-Three-Generations-of-a-Firefighting-Family/183551625026176?sk=wall
A special thanks to Tribute Books http://www.tribute-books.com for giving me a copy of the book to review.
As usual thanks for reading, spread the word, and STAY SAFE!
July 29, 2011
Mike and Grandpa
Both my son Mike and my Dad had an unusual experience recently. Mike was helping out at a structural burn class, and Grandpa, still a New York State Fire Instructor, was able to stop by for a bit to watch. It's not often you get to see fire fighters with the same last name together, who are separated by 57 years of age........
July 28, 2011
Initiation
That the Probie was not a rocket scientist was apparent. Like all, he had to go through an initiation—hazing some would call it. Unlike most, he fell for everything they threw at him.
The water fountain was a case in point. A standard brown industrial model with a silver curved outlet and drain in the center of the bowl; identical to the type the kid had to have seen hundreds of times before in elementary school. The three guys working him over weren't much past him chronologically. They were ages older experience wise, however.
"Don't you know one of your jobs is to make sure this water fountain is full," one of them told him.
"Jesus, you don't want it to run dry," said the second.
Unaware, the Captain walked out of his office and dumped the remnants of ice and water from a cup into the drain and turned back.
"Holy shit, you don't want the Captain having to fill the thing for you do you?" said the third. The Captain pretended to hear nothing and with a slight shake of his head, returned to the stacks of paper work in his office, having seen this, or similar routines hundreds of times before.
From the look on the rookies face the three knew they had him hooked and proceeded to other tasks while watching the kid out of the corner of their eyes. Probie found the largest pot he could in the kitchen and proceeded to fill it with about five gallons of water. Lugging it over, he tipped the awkward vessel up to fill what he was convinced was the fountain reservoir. The drain, not sized to take more than the small stream from the quarter inch outlet, immediately overflowed, soaking the kid and the surrounding floor. The Captain walked out of his office, surveyed the wet floor and Probie, shook his head again, and returned to his office. The laughter from the three "older" firefighters was loud, but another lesson was learned, and tradition passed on.
The water fountain was a case in point. A standard brown industrial model with a silver curved outlet and drain in the center of the bowl; identical to the type the kid had to have seen hundreds of times before in elementary school. The three guys working him over weren't much past him chronologically. They were ages older experience wise, however.
"Don't you know one of your jobs is to make sure this water fountain is full," one of them told him.
"Jesus, you don't want it to run dry," said the second.
Unaware, the Captain walked out of his office and dumped the remnants of ice and water from a cup into the drain and turned back.
"Holy shit, you don't want the Captain having to fill the thing for you do you?" said the third. The Captain pretended to hear nothing and with a slight shake of his head, returned to the stacks of paper work in his office, having seen this, or similar routines hundreds of times before.
From the look on the rookies face the three knew they had him hooked and proceeded to other tasks while watching the kid out of the corner of their eyes. Probie found the largest pot he could in the kitchen and proceeded to fill it with about five gallons of water. Lugging it over, he tipped the awkward vessel up to fill what he was convinced was the fountain reservoir. The drain, not sized to take more than the small stream from the quarter inch outlet, immediately overflowed, soaking the kid and the surrounding floor. The Captain walked out of his office, surveyed the wet floor and Probie, shook his head again, and returned to his office. The laughter from the three "older" firefighters was loud, but another lesson was learned, and tradition passed on.
July 27, 2011
The Question
One of my writing group friends had an interesting comment after reading a chapter from the first draft of my book.
"Tell me about the emotions you are feeling when dealing with such a critical situation," he said.
I gave him a terrible answer that didn't really encompass how it really is. This is what I should have told him.
You don't really "feel" during the incident. You have to perform. Any feelings are buried deep inside. If you let your emotions come out at that time, the job wouldn't get done.
Even afterward, we don't handle things the way one might expect. Firefighters are witness to many ugly tragic events. The longer you do it, the more of them you see. Everyone deals with these things differently.
I compartmentalize these incidents. You can't think about them constantly or even regularly or you'd go crazy. I stick these them in a corner of my mind behind a door in an attic room that only gets visited on occasion. You have to go there every so often to maintain your humanity, but not so often as to destroy your ability to do the job.
Everyone who does this job for an extended period of time is a very different person than they would have been had they done something else. You can't see and experience the things we do and not have it change who you are.
For myself, I think it has made me more immune to people's suffering, harder, and more distant. Not because I don't care, but as a protective mechanism.
At the same time, it has made me more sensitive. I avoid sad movies; simple things like the boy's dog getting shot that have little or no effect on "normal" people who find such stories entertaining. These bother me.
The way I look at it, I go out and expose myself to real world tragedies. I don't want to watch a movie or television program about fictional one's for entertainment purposes.
Probably not the answer he would expect, but its how it is; for me at least.
"Tell me about the emotions you are feeling when dealing with such a critical situation," he said.
I gave him a terrible answer that didn't really encompass how it really is. This is what I should have told him.
You don't really "feel" during the incident. You have to perform. Any feelings are buried deep inside. If you let your emotions come out at that time, the job wouldn't get done.
Even afterward, we don't handle things the way one might expect. Firefighters are witness to many ugly tragic events. The longer you do it, the more of them you see. Everyone deals with these things differently.
I compartmentalize these incidents. You can't think about them constantly or even regularly or you'd go crazy. I stick these them in a corner of my mind behind a door in an attic room that only gets visited on occasion. You have to go there every so often to maintain your humanity, but not so often as to destroy your ability to do the job.
Everyone who does this job for an extended period of time is a very different person than they would have been had they done something else. You can't see and experience the things we do and not have it change who you are.
For myself, I think it has made me more immune to people's suffering, harder, and more distant. Not because I don't care, but as a protective mechanism.
At the same time, it has made me more sensitive. I avoid sad movies; simple things like the boy's dog getting shot that have little or no effect on "normal" people who find such stories entertaining. These bother me.
The way I look at it, I go out and expose myself to real world tragedies. I don't want to watch a movie or television program about fictional one's for entertainment purposes.
Probably not the answer he would expect, but its how it is; for me at least.
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