Discounts and bennies for police and firefighters?

I took a look at this thread...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=104x1628500

...and it reminded me of something I've groused about before. I've got a buddy that rides volunteer EMT. There have been a couple of times when we've been shopping together, getting things for thier new house, nad we've been asked if either of us was military. Of course I immeduiately say yes, and we take advantage of the 5%, or whatever, discount they are offering.

He usually asks if they have a discount for firemen, or something. The answer is invariably no.

Now I love getting the benefit myself. 5% is small usually, but it beats the hell out of nothing at all, right? My bitch is that police and firefighters are equally putting their lives on teh line everyday. They take just as many risks each year and sacrafice a great deal personally. Why dosen't anyone give them a bone everyonce in a while?

Hell, I passed a firehouse recently and the sign out front said "We have stew available. Ask a fireman." You want to tell me that kind of "giving back to the community" dosen't deserve something?

Anybody know about the good folks in their area getting "commercial benefits" similar to the military, or are we pretty evenly forgetting about these "common place heros"?

in the Syracuse, NY area has told me of a car rental discount he got once; I had assumed it was rather widespread. I myself give discounts to firefighters, et al, when I do book repair, and am happy to do so.

I'm neither Police nor Firefighter but on their behalf I wish to thank you.

that it's only fair. I am not one to sing the praises of cops, but I've spent time in jail, and there is not enough money in the world to pay them for what they sometimes have to put up with.

Relax, I was visiting someone :-)