William 'Billy' E Obenchain poem

If you want to be a clown
you'd better be lookin' for a circus.
If you're lookin' for a free ride,
here's a dollar call a cab.
If you want to be a showman
Vegas will welcome you with open arms.
If fullfillment of an ego is high on your priority list
Might I suggest Hollywood.
And if you want to be a millionaire
by all means this ain't for you.
But, if you don't mind hard work, sweating in freezing weather,
getting back less than half of what you give, and finding
your name at the bottom of your own priority list, then stick around!

I believe you could be a firefighter!!!


The above poem was written and delivered to every recruit over the last 25 years. This was delivered off the cuff and used to relieve the tensons of new guys. The author, Bat. Chief Obenchain has been battling Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma for a couple years. Recently, he has become hospitalized because of secondary effects of this disease process. I thought I would make this a post for all to enjoy and reflect. The simple nature of the poem reflects the light hearted and fun loving nature of Chief Obenchain.

Chief Obenchain is without doubt the most respected officer, the most respected fireman in Roanoke City Fire Department. His dedication and contribution to the fire service is so far above par, that acheiving the status as his peer is almost impossible. He has truely set the bar for those of us that attempt to follow in his footsteps. Chief Obenchain has taught classes throughout the state of Virginia and is known for his abilities and contributions to the fire service.

RoanokeFire.Com has this post on a fund raising effort for research on his particular disease. Please visit RoanokeFire's site and if possible place an order for a T-Shirt.