At age 61, Eric Knudson left this world way too soon. 11 years ago, Eric was diagnosed with cancer and from that time on, like a firefighter, he led an aggressive “interior attack” on his disease. And, like any good Incident Commander, Eric also knew there was a time that perhaps the interior attack was not working and it was time to go “defensive”. Eric made that decision last fall. He reviewed his options, his resources and how to manage his “life” incident, just like battling a fire. He made the decision with dignity, respect and honor. In November, the community came to honor Eric by holding a fundraiser and get together at the Biwabik Community Center. Eric was there and was astounded by the turn-out and support he and his family received. He talked about his decision to go “defensive” and while difficult, he knew it was the right thing to do and the best way to use his earthly resources. On January 19, 2013, Eric’s “incident” ended and “command” was terminated.
Eric Knudson spent 23 years on the Biwabik Fire Department and Ambulance Service. He ended his firefighting and EMS career as Fire Chief. During that time, he worked tirelessly to move the organization into the future and that’s not easy to do. Like any fire chief, he agonized over difficult decisions that had to be made. His passion for firefighting and EMS was very evident in the stories he told. Eric loved what he was doing and felt bad that he couldn’t continue because of his health.
I selected Eric Knudson as Firefighter Of The Month because of how he managed that big incident called “Life”. As I mentioned earlier, he ran his last 11 years just like an Incident Commander. He knew when to conduct the “interior attack” and when to go “defensive.” And by the way, going “defensive” is NOT a sign of defeat. It is a way of managing your resources and options in a way that gives you the best outcome. I think Eric’s life serves as a great example for all of us, whether we are in the EMS/Fire Service or not. There is a time to go “defensive” and Eric Knudson showed us the way on how to do it. Thank you, Eric. I think you have taught us all a valuable lesson in Incident Command!
Peter Makowski, Editor-The Northland Fire Wire