For 32 years, James "Rick" Beale put his life on the literal line, battling blazes to keep homes, properties and most importantly, lives safe.
Although not injured or disabled himself, over those years, Beale knows other fellow firefighters around Polk County, Florida and the United States weren't as fortunate and ended their careers permanently disabled from a work-related incident. And he said he feels any financial support or burden relief those first responders receive might somewhat help alleviate their situations. That's why when it comes up for vote Nov. 8, Beale, who spent the majority of his career at the Lakeland Fire Department's Beacon Hill station, said he will vote "yes" on Amendment 3, giving a tax exemption for totally and permanently disabled first responders.