Celebrating America through Local Eyes

Rebecca Eagels

MIFD Firefighter-Paramedic

Rebecca Eagels grew up in Illinois, riding horses and boating on the Chain of Lakes. After high school graduation, she followed her dream and moved cross-country to California, where she began her career as a paramedic. 

While working for North County Fire as a paramedic, she discovered her passion for helping people in crisis.

When her Midwest family decided to abandon the deep freeze of Illinois and moved to Florida, she joined them. In Florida, she made her next career move which was to attend the Fire Academy and become a Firefighter-Paramedic, “I loved being a paramedic, but I felt that I had the potential in me to do more.”

After graduating from the Fire Academy, Eagels joined Marco Island Fire. She says that the Marco Island Fire Department has been an incredible place to work for. Not only has she received support and guidance from her fellow firefighters but also support from the community that has helped her reach her true potential.

Shortly after moving to Florida, she met her husband Clint, who is also a firefighter. They were married last February. They enjoy boating, fishing, and spending time with family – that includes their chihuahua, Sugar!

Which historical American figure do you most admire?

Clara Barton, because she was a woman who refused to let society define what she could accomplish. She was a nurse during the Civil War. She would bravely go onto the battlefield to help the wounded soldiers. Clara Barton was one of the most important figures in emergency care and disaster relief. She founded the American Red Cross. Clara didn’t accept limitations. She proved that women could be a leader in dangerous and demanding situations. Clara Barton was a strong, brave, and compassionate woman and a role model to me. As a female firefighter, I strive to follow her example and be a positive role model for future generations.

What is one thing that makes you proud to be an American?

The one thing that makes me proud to be an American is that with hard work and determination, you can accomplish amazing things. As a first-generation American, I grew up watching my mother work hard to accomplish her dream of becoming a teacher. I remember attending my mother’s graduation where she graduated with honors and being so incredibly proud of her. Years later, she proudly attended my graduation. This is the American dream. She taught me that I, too, could work hard and follow my dreams. I believe that these are the benefits of being an American. In our country, it is possible to honor the hard work of past generations and set an example for future generations.