There are some traits we expect all firefighters have. Bravery and determination come to mind. Bellevue firefighter Phil Pierson needed those traits more than ever when he suffered a stroke that could have killed him, or at least killed his career. "Being a medic and a firefighter is the best job in the world," Pierson said. He should know. He's been doing this since 1979. He also travels to other countries teaching first aid - and works with local companies on how to handle emergencies. He starts his talks with a, "get to know Phil" kind of question. "Which country do you think I'm from?" he'll ask the group. "And they guess Germany or Poland."