Every fire department has a position that is not promoted into, is not appointed, and is not elected. This position is filled by the firefighter who assumes it. The position is Senior Man, and Weldon has lost its Senior Man. The Senior Man is a mentor, a leader, a teacher, and a true friend. He leads by example. He is a true student of the fire service, always learning, always questioning, and always passing his knowledge to other firefighters. He is a presence at the firehouse, and no matter what the time of day, Brian's presence was always felt. When the Senior Man departs, there is a void that isn't filled quickly, but he has prepared his successor not to fill his shoes, but to stand on his shoulders. Brian's impact on the firefighters at Weldon is immeasurable, and his influence will always be felt.