Last week was the 17th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, and many firefighters who served in the line of duty that day are now experiencing health problems.
Rico Stephens, training chief with the Bibb County Fire Department, said many firemen didn't realize that what was a sense of pride would actually harm them.
"Being exposed to those chemicals and smoke, it was a badge of honor. It showed macho, it showed that we were macho because we went in there and had smoke and soot on all our faces. But what we learned is that same thing that we were doing for bragging rights was killing us," said Stephens.
Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms was a firefighter for almost 30 years. He said the toxins firefighters inhale during their career can affect their health long-term.