Civilians aren’t always aware how of much the ability to cook is a point of pride for firefighters. Meals at the station mean that firefighters are well aware of each other’s culinary prowess. If a firefighter can’t cut it in the kitchen, he’s sure to get an earful from everyone on his shift. Martin Gutierrez, an LAFD Fire Inspector, knows just how essential cooking is in the firefighter’s skillset.
While his initial plan was to enter military service, Martin first considered firefighting as a career when a high school teacher asked him to list other job possibilities in a career prep class. As it turned out, that teacher’s husband was an LAFD firefighter. She brought him into class to speak to Martin, which led to him joining the Explorer program. He was an Explorer at Fire Station 2 from 1989 until 1994. He has been a member of the LAFD for twelve years.
Martin is one of the firefighters who has put his cooking skills to good use outside of the fire station for the benefit of the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund. “For the past six years, I’ve volunteered and organized a food booth in one of the largest events, Hope for Firefighters,” Martin said. He has also worked at one of the newer fundraising events for Widows & Orphans, the El Coyote Firefighters’ Salsa Competition.
Events like this don’t just allow the public the chance to see the firefighters’ culinary aptitude and try some tasty treats. It gives the community a chance to get to interact with LAFD members in a different capacity and a fun environment. Firefighters like Martin serve as a valuable link between Widows & Orphans and the residents of Los Angeles. More than anyone else, they can communicate how valuable the organization is to the LAFD community.
“I enjoy knowing that every time I get involved and support Widows & Orphans functions, that in return I’m contributing in helping our fire family,” said Martin. “I selected Widows & Orphans because it was just the right organization to be part of.” Indeed, Martin is always one of the first voices to speak up when volunteers are needed for a fundraising event. He’s also helped shape some of the more memorable aspects of these events. Martin was the one who conceived of the firefighter photo booth, a popular staple of Widows & Orphans events for over five years.
Having learned how the charity assists the families of disabled and fallen firefighters, Martin encourages others to step up and do what they can to help, behind a grill, inside a photo booth, or elsewhere. “All of our members should take the time to understand how this organization will benefit everyone and continue to offer assistance in volunteering… The staff at Widows & Orphans does an outstanding job organizing these special events and with the support of the members, we continue supporting our fire family.”
By Jody Houser