I recently had the privilege of being a camp counselor at the The Arthur C. Luf Children's Burn Camp in Union. The camp for burn survivors is a magical place where kids can be kids for a week. It is completely cost free, which is possible through donations, and is solely run by volunteers who are active or retired firefighters, medical personnel or burn survivors.

As a native of southeastern Connecticut I have always taken pride in the community in which I was raised. It was at this camp I saw our community shine.

All benches in the mess hall at camp were provided by the New London Fire Department. The New London Fire Firefighters Burn Foundation has a large role in raising money for the camp, and members of the foundation give their time at the camp each year.

Campers look to firefighters as heroes and friends and with each year develop a greater bond.

Victor Spinnato of the New London Fire Department is one such hero. A second veteran volunteer is Cy Virgulto, a cook at the camp. He serves with the fire department at the Groton Naval Submarine Base in Groton.

I salute all the unsung heroes of our community.