Van Nesting: The Not-So-Little Fireman that Could

For the longest time, my brother had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. “I just don’t want to be sitting behind a desk,” would be his only reply when asked. After high school, he enrolled in the local community college and pursued his general studies associate’s degree, figuring it was a good enough start. During that time, however, he had expressed interest in becoming a firefighter. So, while researching other things on his college’s website one day, I discovered that they offered a fire science associate’s degree, too. I excitedly called Alex and, despite the fact that he was almost done with his general studies degree, he applied for and enrolled in the fire science program, adding two years to his existing curriculum. I knew then just how important this newfound dream was to him.

Receiving his two degrees and the next day receiving his EMT certification.

Two years and two degrees later, he enrolled in the Northeast North Carolina Fire Academy and became a volunteer firefighter for the Moyock Fire Department. He was so enthusiastic about the training he received and the time he spent volunteering – when I would call from London, he shared stories and experiences and would be so amped for everything that lay ahead of him. I was so proud. When I asked him recently why he went down there so often, knowing that the excitement in Moyock is less than exhilarating, he stated, “There’s a camaraderie with the guys down there – a brotherhood. I love it.” Needless to say, his devotion and commitment to the MFD was noticed and he was asked by the Chief this summer to apply for a Lieutenant position. So, in just over a year, he climbed the ladder (pun intended) from simply a volunteer, to Sergeant to Lieutenant. Awesome.

Eliza's so proud of her Uncle Al.

As fulfilling as volunteering with the Moyock Fire Department was, a paycheck of $0 bi-weekly wasn’t cutting it for Alex. Since graduating back in December of 2009, he has been actively pursuing a career with a paying department. He’s applied to every department in Hampton Roads, getting as far as the Chief’s interview several times, only to get that dreaded rejection letter in the mail a few short days later. Our hearts would break with his every single time. He was so sick of the Look at the bright side, It’ll happen one day rhetoric we fed him that it just simply didn’t matter any more. He knew he had our support but it was really wearing on him. Despite all of the heartache, however, he never quit trying. He never gave up. He persevered and it paid.

Alex received the call yesterday that held those four little words he’s been dreaming of for years now – official offer of employment. And with the city he was most keen on, to boot. Starting October 17, 2011, my little brother will begin the Virginia Beach Fire Academy and a short time later become a Virginia Beach Firefighter. I couldn’t be more proud, more excited or more happy for him. His devotion to his dream, his passion for firefighting and his commitment to saving lives makes him a hero to so many, but especially me.