Airman faces trial by fire Published June 13, 2012 By Tyler Grimes 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- We all have dreams and goals that we hope to achieve someday, no matter how unrealistic they may be. Whether it's becoming a famous athlete, learning how to cook or moving to that cabin by the lake we've always wanted, dreams are only ideas. It's up to us to make them a reality. For Senior Airman Joseph Jarratt, 349th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels technician, becoming a firefighter was a lifelong goal and he was given the opportunity to pursue his ambition recently. The reason Jarratt wanted to become a firefighter was to serve his community in a capacity outside of his military uniform. "What makes firefighting so appealing to me is that I know there is someone out there with a need," he said. "It is a great feeling knowing that you have used your energies to make a positive impact on someone's life." At Travis, Jarratt made a connection with someone who helped him begin his new career. "In the current job that I am in, I was introduced to a gentleman by the name of Mel Torres," Jarratt said. "He took me under his wing and told me he would give me a shot at becoming a firefighter with Suisun City." To be considered for the job, he had to pass the interview process as well as a rigorous written exam and a physical agility test, all of which he did in December 2010. In August 2011, Jarratt was accepted into the fire recruitment program to see if he had what it takes to battle a blaze. It wasn't actually the firefighting portion that presented the most difficulty for Jarrett. "I would have to say my greatest challenge was setting up a 35-foot ladder," he said. "Thirty-five feet does not sound like a lot but when you put something that high in the air it is quite a ways up. With time and practice, it was just another task in the fire service." Being a Reservist while also training as fire recruit may seem like a delicate balancing act, however, Jarratt says he has been able to use his dual employment status to his advantage. "Both of my careers go hand in hand," he said. I have not learned something yet that hasn't benefited me in both career fields. Being an Airman gives me the determination to become a mentally and physically sound firefighter." With his mother by his side and after months of training and hard work, he received his firefighter's badge, making him an official member of the Suisun City fire station. Now that Jarratt has realized his desire, he says being a firefighter is everything he hoped it would be and has given his life a whole new meaning. "When the tones go off at the station, it is an exciting feeling," he said. "Driving down a highway with lights and sirens flashing knowing that someone is in need of our help is my rush. I always see the little kids wave at us in the fire engine as we go by and think, 'Wow that used to be me and now I am living my dream."