Millions of first responers across the nation rely on their families and communities as the backbone of their service. The children of first responders take part in their sacrifices and help them to bear the burdens they may carry day after day.
EMS, police and firefighter parents can testify: little hands can serve with the biggest hearts. Teaching children of first responders about the struggles their parents endure and the work they accomplish is essential for achieving a functional family.
But children of first responders aren’t the only youths that need to understand the duties and lives of public servants. Whether their parents are police officers, firefighters, EMTs or none of the above, all children are in need of resources and and educational materials to open their eyes to the servants all around them.
James Burd Brewster’s “Glad to do it series!” offers a window into the experiences of public servants through the use of real stories from real first responders.
First responder stories of all kinds
The “Glad to do it!” collection includes three series: “Officer Jack,” “Uncle Rocky, Fireman,” and “EMT Morales.” “Officer Jack” follows the police work of Officer Jack and Officer Kate as they serve their community by making arrests, rendering medical aid and responding to emergencies. “Uncle Rocky, Fireman” tells the story of Rocky Hill as he rescues people and animals and responds to fire scenes. And “EMT Morales” follows EMTs Morales and Flynn as they comfort patients and provide lifesaving care.
‘Glad to do it': Servants, not superheroes
Each book in the “Glad to do it” series unfolds as the characters recreate real incidents involving first responders. The real departments and public servants are highlighted and thanked in the beginning of each story.
At the end of every book, when thanked by the citizens they have assisted, respond by proclaiming “Glad to do it!” with a quick salute, an action intended to highlight their roles as “servants, not heroes.” Young readers are encouraged to join in the salute.
Childrens books about the roles and responsibilities of police officers can be invaluable tools to help kiddos develop an understanding of the importance of policing
September 12, 2024 10:45 AM
In portraying real stories, the series aims to provide a realistic view into the lives of officers, EMTs and firefighters. The gratitude shown in every page — from citizens to their rescuers, from responders to their communities and to God at the end of each book — provides an example to follow for young readers.
“Through these stories, children learn that fire, police and EMTs are adults who can be trusted to help them,” Brewster stated.
Check out the series on Amazon
Uncle Rocky, Fireman
“New firefighter, Rocky Hill, arriving at his first fire is confronted by a frantic mother shouting, “Save my baby, Save my baby.” While his partners attack the fire Rocky, his heart pounding with the urgency of the situation, crawls through the upstairs searching for the baby trapped in her crib.”
“Ben and Luke are eating hotdogs at the air show when Luke spots a boy who is choking. Ben knows what to do, but can he and Luke act fast enough to save the boy’s life?”
“A fire alarm interrupts the planning meeting for the firehouse’s Annual Crab Picking Festival. When Bob, Big Joe, and Uncle Rocky return to the station, a house in their community has been gutted and a family is homeless without any clothing or furniture. They decide to help by turning the Crab Picking Festival into a clothing and furniture drive. As they plan for the big event, Ben asks the question they are all wondering, “Do you think people will help them out?”
“Winter’s cold temperatures have arrived, the rivers and lakes in Hamilton Township have iced over, and children are sliding on the ice. If the ice breaks or they become trapped on the ice, they will call 911 for help. Trained in ice rescue, Uncle Rocky wonders if his help will be needed this winter?”
Officer Jack
“Dispatch tells Officer Jack and Officer Kate a group of people have been hit by a car and several people are badly hurt. When they arrive before the EMTs, Officer Jack sees one lady is bleeding badly. Officer Jack and Officer Kate wonder if their first-aid skills will be enough to help her. Then Officer Jack remembers the “Tourniquet for Heroes” given to him just a week earlier.”
“Officer Jack and Officer Kate swore an oath to protect and serve the citizens of Hamilton Township. Ride along in The Adventures of Officer Jack as they do that by rescuing a woman from a sinking car, getting a baby to breathe, and retrieving a puppy from a dog-napper. Their commitment to their community extends to finding a lost lady, thwarting a robber, and running down and arresting home invading criminals. Like all first responders, when thanked for their service, they thank God they could help and say, “Glad to do it!”
EMT MORALES
“Please send an ambulance,” the woman pleaded.
“We are in the middle of a blizzard,” the 911 operator replied. “We will get an ambulance to you as soon as we can.”
EMT Morales takes the ambulance down the plowed road to the access road, but it is unplowed. Three feet of snow stops her. The Humvee she calls gets her to the mountain driveway, but can’t go up the incline. Is there anything left in her bag of tricks to get her up the driveway to the injured man?”
“A La Plata man calls 911. His wife isn’t breathing. He needs help right away.
La Plata police officers and Charles County EMTs race to the rescue while the 911 operator tells the man how to do CPR.
Corporal Smith arrives and takes over CPR from the husband. When the EMTs arrive, the woman is still not breathing. With all their equipment, can they save her life?”
All of the “Glad to do it!” books are available from gladtodoit.net.
Discounts available for Military, First Responders, and Government Employees.
Save up to 18% off engagement rings, meteorite rings, wedding bands and accessories.
Save up to 5% off barbells bumper plates, benches, power racks, kettlebells, squat racks, slam balls.
Save 15% off workout supplies. All products are made in the USA.
Save 5% off supplements and gear.
Save up to 10% off zirconia flap discs, general-duty diamond blades.
The 26oz. Shaker features a patented, noise-free twist on agitator that is designed to blend protein powders and work as a strainer to ensure a perfect drink every time.
Save up to 15% off snowboards, splitboards, apparel + accessories.
Ghost® Whey Protein was conceived to feed savagery around the clock*, and can be enjoyed during breakfast, post workout, throughout the day or before bed. Ghost® Whey is versatile and can be used in smoothies, oats, protein ice cream, pancakes and baked goods.
Save 20% off earbuds, earmuffs, and accessories.
Save up to 15% off true wireless headphones, earbuds, microphones, gaming gear and office accessories.
Save 50% off gold men’s jewelry and watches.
Save 15% off ice barrel, insulated cold therapy tool and accessories.
Save up to 10% off artificial Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands, Christmas accessories.
Save 20% off t-shirts, hats, décor, outerwear.
Save 10% off truck bed toolboxes, truck bed storage and truck accessories.
Save up to 25% off hideout pack, Grafton pen, holden wallet.
Save up to 20% off hunting clothes and outdoor gear.
Save 15% off jeans, tees, shirts, accessories, pants, shorts, outerwear and more.
Save up to 20% off men’s shirts, women’s shorts, and workout gear.
Save up to 10% off travel bags, camera, luggage, accessories.
Each ring is crafted from premium quality silicone for timeless style, frictionless wear, and complete comfort.
Save up to 15% off water bottles, sleeves, kits, and accessories.
Save 20% off men’s sunglasses, everyday sunglasses, and eyewear collections.
Save 15% off washers and dryers, kitchen and laundry appliances, parts, and accessories.
This PREMIUM wall mount flagpole is built to withstand the harsh elements and keep that like new finish.
Introducing the My Plush Hess Truck – 2024 School Bus, the latest addition to the celebrated Hess Plush series.
This 5-in-1 toy set is a fantastic mix of aviation, rescue, and construction vehicles, all inspired by beloved Holiday Hess Toy Trucks and recreated in remarkable small-scale detail.
Keep it light when carrying on with the durable, well-equipped, lightweight Maxlite® Air Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner. The 100% polycarbonate exterior is engineered to flex if impacted to prevent splitting, cracking or punctures, and a stylish exterior finish reduces visible scratches or scuffs.
A set that includes five skincare and makeup must-haves to add to your daily routine. Allergy-tested, 100 percent fragrance-free, and always formulated for maximum results-without irritation.
From smartwatches to hydration, here are four mission-ready picks to help you build strength, regulate stress and stay fit for the job — and for life
Score discounted duty gear, workout tools and everyday essentials July 8-11 with our curated list of budget-friendly buys
These reflections on the policing industry, written by officers themselves, shed light on the profession through compelling stories, lived experiences and sharp observation
Save on duty gear from the Officer Store, Vertx, ExpertVoice and Vertx, as well as a Tractor Supply everyday recognition for first responders
Even if you can’t travel out of town for a vacation, you can still make the most of your time off; here are some tips to help responders enjoy a staycation right at home
The Mission Darkness Charge Preserve Evidence Bag allows devices to stay powered while sealed in a secure, contamination-proof bag
Prime Day 2025 is a chance for first responders to replace worn gear or upgrade tech
First responders can take advantage of Amazon Prime Day 2025 deals to stock up on professional tools, gear and essentials without stretching the budget
From hostage situations to mass casualty events, each book presents an opportunity to learn, question and grow
This Father’s Day, skip the T-shirt — here are standout picks to help law enforcement dads unwind, reset and reconnect
Celebrate holidays, graduations, promotions and more with these gifts cops will love
Save on Memorial Day weekend shopping deals from 5.11 Tactical, Flying Cross, theOfficerStore.com, Huel, Amazon and more as retailers kick-off the summer
5.11 Tactical, Huel, Flying Cross and others are offering discounts during National Police Week
Understand why first responders struggle to recognize their stress and how Tactical Brain Training builds emotional awareness and resilience
Discover top pet care solutions that keep your pets safe and comfortable while you’re on duty
