Episode 4

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Published on:

28th Oct 2021

Episode 4: Oklahoma City Bombing and After Effects (feat. Chris Fields)

Our latest episode of Solid Responder featuring 31-year veteran of the Oklahoma Fire Department, Fire Fighter Chris Fields. 

After retiring in 2017, Chris began the second most important work of his life, shining a light on the hidden mental and emotional trauma so common to first responders. Through live events across the country, he shares his personal story, including one of the most infamous moments—as the fire fighter photographed while cradling the body of a one-year old, who succumbed to injuries at the Oklahoma bombing terror attack on April 19, 1995. 

According to mental health statistics, the percentage of first responder suicides are higher than those of the rest of the population. Currently, it even outpaces line of duty deaths. This is an incredibly important and vital subject that Chris has dedicated his life to. He believes that his career as a first responder took a toll on his personal well-being and his family. During this podcast, Chris shares his own recovery which he attributes to faith and family and has committed to share what he has learned to help other first responders and their loved ones. 

Please join us for this moving episode and heed the call to action to help recognize those in need of support and how you can help them or point them to the right resources. 

After watching the podcast, you can learn more by visiting www.chrisfeilds.com or www.traumabehindthebadge.org

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About the Podcast

Solid Responder
Squared away! Right away!
Welcome to the Solid Responder Podcast were we share stories from first responders. We talk about the past, the present, and the future in disaster response. Solid Responder highlights key issues in emergency response. Exploring, engaging, and educating the emergency response community with featured guests from all hazards response disciplines. Listen in as leading experts in the field tell their personal stories of dramatic and dangerous moments, the lessons that they learned, and how theirs skills were put to the test.

About your host

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Joe Hernandez

As a Solid Responder and member of FEMA's US&R system, Joe has participated and/or directed response efforts to numerous all-hazards natural and man-made disasters. A highly decorated fire-rescue officer having served the community for over 28 years with the Florida Division of Forestry, and retiring from the City of Hialeah, Florida.