Betustak should choose better words

I am writing in response to the remark made by the former mayor of Lindenhurst regarding the new firehouse in Lindenhurst ("Finally, a fire station," Jan. 16). James Betustak had stated, "I'll be happy to hear that first siren roll out of there." My guess is that he was referring to emergency equipment responding out of the new firehouse on Grass Lake Road in Lindenhurst.

The use of a siren usually is an indication that someone is in is some sort of distress, usually someplace close by. Whether you're police, fire, or an emergency medical service, you use siren and lights to assist your way through traffic to render your service in the field of your expertise. Police may use lights and sirens to expedite them to a scene to stop or investigate any sort of crime. Fire and EMS personnel use lights and sirens to expedite their drive to help the public in saving life and/or property, or render emergency medical care.

I have served the public being employed in both law enforcement and the fire service. I have also served six years in the Marine Corps. Never did I state, "I'll be happy to hear the siren," or "I'll be happy to hear the first shot fired." My father currently serves as a firefighter and helped get this firehouse put into Lindenhurst. Never have I heard him make a comment that closely resembles Mr. Betusak's comment.

I feel the Lake Villa Fire Protection District did make the correct decision in choosing the location and erecting the new firehouse. I also applaud Lake Villa Fire Department, Lake Villa Rescue Squad, and Lake Villa Fire Protection District for their continued support and service rendered to the community.

Former Mayor Betustak, I don't wish anyone to need to use any of the emergency services previously mentioned. Why would you be "happy" for someone to actually need to use these services? Maybe you should have chosen better wording? I anxiously await your reply.

Chris Stachera

Lindenhurst