To the Editor:

When we read articles about the Potsdam Police it is generally involving investigating thefts, assault complaints, or traffic stops. When we read about the Potsdam Fire Dept it is usually about a house fire, barn fire, or even responding to a multiple vehicle accident.

This past week there have been two unique situations, unique in the fact that they, luckily, are not a common occurrence but not a first time occurrence either. Both the Potsdam Police and the Potsdam Fire Dept. responded to a call of a person possibly being struck by a train and falling into the river from the train trestle on Sandstoner Drive.

They worked throughout the night in chilly temperatures when I am sure they would have rather been home in bed with their families. Although the outcome was a loss of life they were successful in their efforts to locate the person. Two nights later they responded yet again to a call of a gentleman, whom I am personally acquainted and friends with, who had gone into the woods near his house and had not returned.

Yet again they gave up the warmth and comfort of their homes and beds to search the cold, wet wooded area in search of this man. In this instance the outcome was a good one.

The point is that these are things we do not normally think of when we think of these two departments, but we should. Especially when budget and manpower discussions are on the public and political stage. These people are our neighbors, friends, co-workers, and family members who are called to act despite the weather or time of day or night.

So even if you don’t want to thank them in person, keep them in mind when speaking publically come budget season, and consider their actions before criticizing or questioning their need and value to the community.

James Hubbard, Potsdam