ROANOKE, Va. – While many families are unwrapping gifts and sharing festive meals, some are spending Christmas Day on the frontlines. First responders, like firefighters, sacrifice time with loved ones to ensure the safety of our communities. 10 News visited Station 3 in Roanoke to see how these dedicated individuals balance duty with holiday traditions.
At fire and EMS stations across the country, the holiday season doesn’t pause for the brave men and women who protect us. For them, Christmas is spent in uniform, ready to answer the call—no matter the hour.
But in between the calls, firefighters do their best to make the day feel like Christmas. At Station 3, this includes Christmas decorations and their cherished holiday meal tradition.
“This is our traditional breakfast—biscuits and gravy, fried apples, hash browns, eggs, and bacon,” said Lt. Keith Gaines of Station 3.
The sacrifices are real. While many families gather around the tree, these firefighters remain at the station, prepared for whatever comes next.
“It’s pretty tough working on Christmas Day, especially when you have a family. I have a 2-year-old daughter now, so she knows what’s going on and gets excited,” said Gaines.
The toughest part of working on Christmas, according to these first responders, isn’t the work itself—it’s the moments missed with their loved ones. However, they’ve found ways to make up for it.
“We got to celebrate yesterday with my wife, daughter, and my family as well. So, you know, it’s the sacrifices we make, but somebody’s got to do it, and we’re here to do this job,” Gaines added.
Despite the challenges, the bond between the first responders at Station 3 is strong. It’s a family—one that doesn’t share the same last name but shares the same mission: to protect and serve.
“It’s very rewarding at the end of the day,” Gaines said.
This Christmas was particularly special for one firefighter—it marked his very first shift on the job.
“It’s fantastic. I’m trying to learn with all the great help I have. It’s really nice to see everyone come together, especially on a holiday,” said Matt Stafford, a firefighter EMT.
For these firefighters, the call to serve is a 24/7 commitment—no matter the time, no matter the season. This Christmas, as always, they answered the call.