By Sarah Phelps, American Red Cross Public Affairs Volunteer
When you ask John Miller to state the number of times he has been deployed, his broad face breaks into a grin. He knows he has been deployed more than 35 times and supported more than 100 disaster responses. He quickly changes the subject and talks about his love of the American Red Cross and creating great experiences for clients and volunteers. He loves joining with his community and fellow Red Crossers to work towards a common goal. He loves the mission. He loves the people.
John is the kind of guy who has seen more than his share of tragedies and joys. He met his wife in first grade and his eyes still twinkle when he talks about her. In 1974, after four years in the Navy, he wanted to get to know his community in New York state and volunteered with the Red Cross.
His career as a volunteer firefighter and wildlands fire responder took him away from active volunteering for 30 years. Upon his move to Colorado twenty-one years ago, he volunteered again after retirement and has not looked back. .
He acknowledges the irony that, after helping so many people in their own emergencies, his house was threatened by the Colorado wildfires this year. After days of anxiety, it was revealed that his home was saved by a random shift of the wind that turned the fire into another neighborhood. He learned that the sheriff had extinguished a spot fire in his yard, but his street was a scene of weariness and relief when he returned. His smile dimmed a bit as he recounts standing in his driveway, unable to hug or shake hands with his neighbors due to another national emergency. Human connection means so much to him and he contented himself with the delight of voices calling out greetings.
John paused a moment when I asked him what he wished for the future. He said he wished more people knew what the Red Cross really does. It is not just the huge national disasters. It’s the daily personal emergencies that most volunteers contribute to. Small fires or floods that destroy the security and artifacts of people’s lives. He knows that climate change is here to stay and that the pace and scope of disaster may accelerate. But he also knows that the Red Cross will be there to help and to provide comfort in every possible crisis. And, for as long as he is able, so will he.
FUN FACT!
John Miller was named the Broncos Everyday Hero for his Red Cross work.
