One day last week there was a fast-moving grass fire in our neighborhood.

My kids and I watched from the cool safety of our spare bedroom as Stafford County fire personnel ran onto the scene in their heavy gear on a sweltering day.

They successfully put out the fire, but all the while we couldn't help but marvel at their heroics. In 99-degree heat, they were running toward a fire while the rest of us stayed inside and waited nervously for it to be over.

And then on the evening of Friday, June 29, we all experienced a storm that knocked out power and caused general destruction everywhere.

Who immediately came out of their own homes with no power and trees down to help our community? That's right--Stafford County personnel of all kinds.

Fast forward to July Fourth fireworks at Pratt Park in southern Stafford. The weather was hot and the atmosphere was friendly and patriotic.

As we sat on our folding chairs and got ready to take in the spectacle, Stafford County deputies rode through the crowds on their bicycles and made their presence known throughout the event.

Once again, I sat back and thought about how good our life in Stafford is because of the people who give up time with their families on holidays and risk their health and very lives to make sure we are all free from the larger safety concerns.

Consider this an open letter of thanks to all first-responders who do this every day with no expectation of gratitude. God bless America, indeed!

Jacki Hooker

Stafford