The Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (FOOLS) is an organization
that was started in 1995 by a group of Central Florida Firemen. This
group, known today as the Founding Fools, had a passion for not only the
camaraderie and brotherhood that is forged between firefighters, but
the rich tradition and heritage of the Fire Service. Since 1995, this
brotherhood has grown to over seven thousand strong. There are chapters
all over the world, with new chapters starting almost every day.
The Leatherhead is a term used for a firefighter who uses the leather
helmet for protection from the hazards we face everyday on the streets.
The Leather Helmet, is an international sign of a Firefighter, a symbol
that is significant in not only tradition from the early years of
firefighting, but one of bravery, integrity, honor and pride. The helmet
is a sign of who we are, not what we are.
The FOOLS, like the
traditional leather helmet, has always existed throughout the
brotherhood of the Fire Service, and will continue to grow and flourish
as long as there are fires to fight and emergencies to respond to. The
FOOLS are about the brotherhood and tradition that the fire service is
based on. When we are in our gear, and trying to make our way down the
dark Smokey hallway, we are all the same. All that matters is that you
have my back, and I have yours. We do not care if you are a chief, a
recruit, a volunteer or a career firefighter, a male, a female or the
color of your skin. All we ask is that you are true to your brother and
sister firefighter, and to the fire service. All firefighters are
welcome to be a part of this great organization; one does not have to
own a leather helmet to be considered a "Leatherhead". Our membership is
growing everyday, and we encourage you to start a FOOLS chapter in your
department.
The FOOLS are not a political organization. We
will not be involved in union, management, or any other political issue.
We are about preserving the tradition and heritage of the fire service
and taking care of our brother and sister firefighters. We have been
involved with fundraisers, charity events, and helping disadvantaged
children receive gifts for Christmas. We believe that this part of what
being a member of the FOOLS is all about.
The FOOLS also
believe in providing real fire training for real firefighters. We
believe that it is our duty to be as well trained as we possibly can.
This can only keep us, and our brothers and sisters safe on the fire
ground. We owe it to ourselves, our brothers and sisters, their
families, and to the citizens we protect.
We believe in Pride: In our departments, in our stations, in our apparatus, and pride in ourselves.
One last thing that we as the Founding Fools ask of each and every one
of you, let us never, ever forget those that have gone before us in the
line of duty. Because those brave souls have given all, it is up to us
to keep them alive in our hearts and our memories.
--From the International website. http://www.foolsinternational.com/
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