SYD KRONISH | Stamps Canadian issue honors firefighters

Most U.S. citizens know about the bravery, courage and dedication of its firefighters. Such courage is on display every day in times of distress -- as evidenced in New York City's Twin Towers disaster of Sept. 11, 2001.
Across the border in Canada, citizens are equally proud of their firefighters, most of whom are volunteers. In fact, 85 percent of the firefighters in Canada are volunteers, protecting 80 percent of that nation's counties.
To recognize the stalwart efforts of their country's volunteer firefighters, Canada Post has issued a new 48-cent stamp. The main design features a firefighter carrying a child to safety during a raging fire. The background consists of flames and dense smoke from a burning building.
The Canadian volunteers are well-trained in handling fires in high-rise buildings, shopping malls and industrial sites as well as homes, farms and schools. In addition, they often tend to the injured at accident scenes, search for missing children and teach public safety.
Canadian officials say these firefighters spend many hours away from home performing their duties and their commitment is unparalleled in modern times.
U.S. tribute
In the United States, the entire nation is thankful for the everyday performances of the men and women on the firefighting line. In 2002, the U.S. Postal Service issued a special stamp portraying three New York City firefighters raising the U.S. flag at ground zero. The 45-cent special stamp is a semi-postal with part of the proceeds going to families of those killed or injured in the Sept. 11 attack.
The new Canadian 2003 stamp honoring the volunteer firefighters will be available after May 30. Stamps and official first-day covers can be obtained by mail order from the National Philatelic Centre, Canada Post Corp., 2701 Riverside Dr., Suite NO141, Ottawa, KIA OB1. Or you can call toll-free (800)-565-4362.
Booklet
Good news for U.S. collectors: USPS commemorates the distinguished role which the American flag has played in history with the issue of the Old Glory Prestige Booklet.
The 28-page booklet provides a fascinating look at more than 200 years of flag history along with 20 new stamps, and is available for $7.40. Call (800)-STAMP-24 to place your order.