"Ray Davison: an American Hero"

Non-Fiction

When Ray Davison passed away in late December 2004, it seemed the whole state of Vermont went in mourning. During his long and extraordinary life in the Fire Service, Ray's warm and courteous manners had made him friends everywhere in the United States, as well as in Canada and Europe. His devotion to the Service was legendary and his kindness, courtesy, and friendliness had made him a hero to many people.

The record of Ray's life is astonishing; 35 years as a teacher, guidance counselor and public school administrator in four Vermont school districts; 18 years working for the Brown McClay Funeral Home; 44 years as 1st Deputy Chief of the Vergennes Fire Department; and several years as owner of the R. E. Davison Co., a fire/rescue equipment sales business.

On top of that he served the State of Vermont Fire Service Training Council as a State Fire Training Instructor and taught fire classes throughout the the State, New England, and Canada. He was also a life member of the department, the Addison County Firefighter Association, and the Vermont State Firefighters' Association.

With George Gibby and Walter Read, Ray was instrumental in starting the teaching of fire courses in Vermont. His steadfast devotion to learning, beliefs in others, and selfless service to the community, inspired countless people to go on and better themselves.

In an information-driven and computer-dominated age and in a time of job-outsourcing and worker-disaffection, no one understood better than Ray the need for information sharing and training opportunities. He knew that legal, technological and social challenges were facing men and women in the Service and that a strong sense of commitment and leadership would be needed to meet them.

This was especially true after the events of September 11 and beyond, when several forces have come into play and are trying to undermine our confidence and enthusiasm for life, freedom and creativity. In such an age, men and women of unparalleled integrity and strong determination will be needed to come forward and keep America safe and free.

This is why this book is being written. Because Ray Davison's life can serve as an example to others who might want to join the Fire Service and serve and, beyond that, to still others who might simply want to aim for a life of excellence and dedication in whatever work they choose.

It is also being written because Ray's story far outstrips the boundaries of the Fire Service, the State of Vermont, and America, even, and belongs in the public domain and to the world at large. Finally, it is also being written because, in the final analysis, and much to his credit, honor and glory, the story of Ray Davison is the story of America and of everyone.