MARIN COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) — September is National Firefighter Appreciation Month and all this month, ABC7 News is honoring Bay Area firefighters and the important job they do. It includes two brothers from Marin County.
“When we work together, it’s all good memories,” said Marin County Fire Captain Patrick Terstegge.
Meet Marin County Fire Department’s band of brothers, John and Patrick Terstegge. They spoke to ABC7 News on Friday from Fresno County where they’re currently part of a mutual aid strike team fighting the Salt Fire.
“They just plug us in as they need for their plan, that’s how we’re working on this fire – the fire itself is 17,000 acres,” said Patrick Terstegge.
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The Terstegge brothers grew up in San Rafael. Together, they have a combined 35 years of experience in the fire service with many of their friends taking the same career path.
“All of our close friends we went to high school with are in the fire service so it’s a big family,” John Terstegge said.
John calls his younger brother Patrick a role model especially when battling big fires outside the Bay Area, on engine and bulldozer crews when communication and cooperation is required.
“I can always rely on Patrick to be the voice of reason, make good decisions and stay calm no matter what we’re tasked with, it’s reassuring to work with a family member,” John Terstegge said..
“Any sibling rivalry going on?” ABC7 News Reporter Cornell Barnard asked.
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“No rivalry,” Patrick said. “No, we work better as a team,” said John.
These brothers are humble, we asked what Firefighter Appreciation Month means to them.
“In answer to your question, it’s wonderful to be appreciated, as everyone knows. We appreciate the support from everyone we get a chance to meet,” John Terstegge said.
As of now, both brothers have no plans to retire.
“We get new firefighters every year we get to hep with knowledge and culture of Marin County Fire Department when it stops being fun, I’ll retire,” said John Terstegge.
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