SHERMAN WHITE remembered that day fondly as tears gathered in his eyes. The little boy he and his fellow firefighters had rescued from a car lay on the gurney. The boy’s future had yet to be determined. White and the other firefighters stood by, hopeful, as the emergency medical technicians closed the truck’s doors and rushed off to the hospital.
“Pomp and Circumstance,” the graduation march, blasted from the speakers. As White sat in the audience, tears welled in his eyes as he watched the familiar face roll down the aisle, propelled by a wheelchair. It was the boy he’d pulled from a vehicle years ago, a life then uncertain, now celebrating a hard-won diploma. That was one of many defining moments in White’s career as a lieutenant with Manchester Fire & Rescue.
Being a first responder in real life is vastly different from the dramatized scenes we see on TV. In our community, many heroes walk among us. White is one standup firefighter who embodies an exceptional level of heroism combined with a warm, approachable demeanor and a strong sense of duty. The weight of responsibility sits heavily on White’s shoulders. Every life entrusted to him is a precious gift worth protecting.
The Manchester native has always been active in sports and his community, so becoming a firefighter was a natural decision.
“I was always athletic growing up. I played football from Little League through high school and even a bit in Nashville,” he recalled.
But the turning point for White came after the events of 9/11.
“Watching the aftermath and the brave first responders really inspired me. It made me realize you don’t have to be a soldier overseas to serve your country — you can make a difference right here in your community.”
Having firefighters visit his school and bring along the infamous “Sparky” influenced his decision. He vividly remembers the fire department visiting his school and a small fire incident at his home.
White admits that he has faced many obstacles over his career and that not every day is a walk in the park.
“A lot of people think firefighters just run into burning buildings and save lives. But there’s a technique to it because you want to save the victims and their belongings while ensuring the safety of your fellow firefighters and yourself,” he explained.
One of his hardest lessons was learning to balance the urge to act quickly with the need for caution and teamwork. The nuanced balance between action and safety is a fundamental aspect of the job that is often misunderstood.
According to White, one of the most challenging aspects of firefighting has been dealing with the emotional impact of the calls responded to. But often, these calls turn into full circle moments later on.
“There was a time we rescued a kid after a car accident, and we didn’t know if he would make it. Later, we found out he survived and got to see him wheel down the aisle at his graduation. Moments like that make you realize the impact you have on the community.”
Even with the dangers and emotional toll, White remains passionate and present in his daily work.
Technological advancements and techniques have completely changed the trajectory of firefighting over the past few years, often revolutionizing and sometimes complicating how these heroes fight fires. The materials used in modern homes, which burn faster and hotter, have necessitated changes in firefighting tactics.
“Homes today burn so much faster because of the materials used. We have to adapt and train to keep up.”
Educating the public is a must for Manchester Fire & Rescue. One of the most significant components of house fires is the materials used to build houses these days. White assures the community that the department is constantly training on new methods to keep things safe and effective.
There’s no doubt that White will leave a profound impression on the next generation of leaders in our community, especially because he’s already impacted his former student-athletes in a positive way.
“I want kids to look up to me and see what it means to be a firefighter. I used to coach football, and those kids still call me ‘Coach.’”
You might see Manchester Fire & Rescue firefighters around the community toting their equipment and interacting with schools, participating in events, and even having water days with the school students. Their devotion to the community is no secret, and their service speaks for itself. The department also installs smoke detectors in homes and educates residents on fire safety.
In supporting our heroes, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference.
“People often don’t realize the risks we take and the amount of training we undergo. Simple things like moving over for emergency vehicles can make a huge difference,” White explained.
Outside of work, White spends his time in his sanctuary — the gym. He enjoys weightlifting, a passion he’s been nurturing for years. As for the legacy he hopes to leave, White wants to inspire younger demographics to pursue careers in firefighting.
“We get high school interns who come and train with us. I hope they see something that ignites the same fire that I’ve got.”
White wears the spirit of a hero like a knight wears armor — not just in moments of crisis but in everyday acts of kindness and bravery. White not only saves lives daily but inspires countless others to consider how they can give back twofold. His legacy in Manchester is assured, as is the safety and well-being of the community he serves so passionately. GN
