Volunteer Spotlight: Travis Good

Name: Travis Good
Title: Captain
Department: Fire District #9
Location: Parsons, KS

Why are you an NVFC member?
I decided to join this group because I wanted to find out more information on skills, trainings, and equipment – whatever I may need to pass along to my fellow firefighters. As the world changes, so does the fire service. [We need to be] all on the same page on our skill levels. I have been serving the same fire department for the last 30 years. I enjoy being a volunteer firefighter, and I am also on the southeast Kansas firefighter honor guard. I don’t plan on retiring anytime soon – I’ll keep serving as long as my body will allow me to!

What is your occupation?
Forklift operator

Why are you a fire service volunteer?
Honestly, my full-time job pays me really well and has very good insurance. As most of you know, the fire service doesn’t pay what it should as a firefighter who saves our lives and protects our property.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?
1995

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
Joining forces with neighboring departments and training, and getting to know them as family too. Saving lives and car accidents and misplaced families due to a fire at their homes.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
In the last couple of years [we implemented] a Trunk-or-Treat at our department, giving out gifts and candy to the kids. We’ve also partnered with our city fire department on an emergency day – we call it Touch-a-Truck, and kids and adults can come out and look at our equipment and we show them what we have to help serve our community.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.