Photo Information

Lance Cpl. Alex Volz talks to other Marines in his fire team just before a training exercise, May 17, 2011. Volz worked as a firefighter /EMT for two years before joining the Marine Corps. (U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Cpl. Ed Galo)

Photo by Cpl. Ed Galo

Marine dedicates life to helping others

20 May 2011 | Cpl. Ed Galo 2nd Marine Division

As an emergency medical technician and firefighter at home, or a U.S. Marine abroad, Lance Cpl. Alex Volz has always had a drive to help others.

Volz, a native of St. Charles, Ill. began training to become a certified firefighter/EMT during his senior year of high school.

“I worked at the fire department at my hometown part time,” said Volz, a Marine with Company G, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division. “I went to the academy at night and on weekends while I was still in school.”

Volz worked for his town’s fire department for two years before leaving to join the Marine Corps.

“I loved every minute of my time there,” continued Volz. “I had a lot of calls while working there, but I think my most rewarding experience was when I answered a call to a very bad car wreck. We had to cut the cars apart to get everyone out. Everyone survived. It was a good feeling; doing my job and taking care of others.”

Volz is still a part of his hometown fire department. He took a military leave of absence in order to serve his country.

During his time in the Marines, Volz deployed once to Afghanistan as a rifleman, and he is currently preparing for his second deployment.

“I’ve always wanted to join – ever since I was a little kid,” said Volz. “My grandfather and his brothers were Marines. They used to talk about their days in the Corps. I really like all the people I’ve met since joining and the bond we’ve made. I’m also proud of the accomplishments this unit made during our last deployment, and I’m proud to be a part of this unit.”

Volz said he is planning on finishing up his current enlistment with the Marines and then going back home and working as a firefighter/EMT.

“He’s a very hard working kid,” said Staff Sgt. Jack Smith, a platoon sergeant with Co. G, 2/6. “He’s a go-getter. He’s never given me any problems. He saw a lot of combat for being so young, but he was a phenomenal saw gunner. His squad was my goto squad in Afghanistan. I’m sure he is going to succeed in whatever he does.”