| While the growing unrest and violence in the middle east may seem like a world away, and the world watches protestors clash with various government forces from the comfort of their living room, one Station 5 member is experiencing it all first hand in the heart of the middle east. Active Member Michael Schon is currently in the middle of a 6 month exchange in Israel, where he is studying at Tel Aviv University, working for the Israeli National Fire/Rescue Services, and doing research on Islamist insurgence and the Arab-Israeli Conflict.
While Israel has been relatively stable compared to its neighboring countries, which have fallen into protest and anarchy (including Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and now Syria), Mike has definitely experienced the strain of the turmoil. Israel too, has had some smaller protests, which Mike documented, and his pictures were featured on CNN. Israel also is under constant threat of violence and terror attacks, which Mike said he was all too reminded of after a bus bombing in Jerusalem in late March.
Mike is in a unique position compared to other more traditional "study abroad students" with his work as a firefighter. Mike is based out of Tel Aviv's main station, and typically works 4 10-hour shifts a week, and has seen and participated in the inner workings of Israel's emergency services and response systems. He says while the job is the same as in the USA – protecting life and property – there are some significant differences in the Israeli model vs. their US counterparts. He also commented on some of the struggles the firefighters in Israel face, including a lack of resources available ranging from money, equipment, to even water. Mike noted that the Israeli's have excelled as both a population and as a fire service by their strong ability to improvise and work under tough conditions regardless of the situation, and these strengths have made the first responder community excel in response to any situation given them, from fires to rescues to terrorist attacks.
Station 5 continues to wish the very best to Michael and his co-workers at the Israeli National Fire/Rescue Services, and we look forward to his safe return to the United States in June. |
