[Editor’s note: The River Reporter welcomes a new feature by Sam Avrett to our monthly health section. Ambulance Chronicles will introduce our readers to the ambulance corps members who respond to medical emergencies in the Upper Delaware River region and the people who need their help in a crisis situation. We salute all of the men and women who volunteer for this important work in our local communities.]

My 911 radio mocks me. People sometimes think that volunteering on an ambulance corps is about blood and glory. So not true.

Sure, there’s the uniform, the walkie-talkie, the acquired training, all signs of possible competence and authority in responding to an emergency. And, yes, there’s occasional blood and other stuff that comes out of people, though we actually try to prevent all that.

But no glory. Glory comes from Latin, gloria, meaning fame, renown, honor and the majesty of gods. Vainglory is pride, thinking oneself has that same renown, honor and majesty of the gods.

No such luck. The radio makes sure of that.

When the 911 emergency tones go off, it’s certain that you’re working, napping, mowing the lawn, or in some state of total unpreparedness. This means a Road Runner-like comedy moment, as you scramble in mid-air to simultaneously call the dispatch center, don the outfit and get the car moving toward the ambulance corps.

Or, when you’re totally prepared for the superhero routine, shirt and boots by the door, truck pointing toward the road, the radio remains silent. For days.

Inevitably there will be a call. And we’ll respond. No drama, just overcoming the emergency, all practicality and protocol. A transport to the hospital, and back home again. With some satisfaction of a service provided and a job well done.

[Sam Avrett sends along this note: These postings record recent 911 events in a small American town. Key details are omitted or changed to protect confidentially and to avoid resemblance to any specific person or event. Volunteer with your local ambulance corps; they need you, and you can get trained in first aid, CPR, and more. You will learn more than you know.]