The 19 Hotshots Poem by Jeryn Bean

As they went forth,
those 19 knew it was dangerous.
they knew it was unsafe.
but they did it anyway.

they went forth to protect the lives of those behind,
and the ones in front.
they battled hell's inferno.
as all else was turned to ash,

they stood alone.
facing the flame,
as the city's last line of defense.
they did not run. they did not waver.

even as the flame licked upon their bodies,
they stood their ground.
fore they knew,
they could not allow it to spread any further.

as the flame washed over them,
and consumed them,
the only thoughts they had were;
'I hope I am the last.'

and so, they were consumed,
in the hopes that others,
would be saved.