In way of an introduction, I think a somewhat edited repost of my join request letter might be in order, and now follows here:
Recently getting into the realm of anonymous public service, I see the need for communication, contact and support for our otherwise dispersed, and even sometimes isolated community.
My goal is to help fill that void for our heroes, aid our citizens, and provide support for our overstretched public safety. In particular, it concerns me that some heroes are faced with patrolling on their own and having to fear for their own safety. We are safer, and more effective when we work in a group and as a team.
Hence, my moniker as Backup. I wouldn't consider myself to be a hero, but I have a desire to aid the public and act as support, both moral and physical, for those who work for the betterment of our neighborhoods.
I recognize the need for the mask as a symbol, and for the protection it provides to anonymity, while seeing its potential complications. Although I wear no face covering, I appreciate and respect our rights to privacy.
At the risk of naming a few while neglecting a great many deserving others, I would have to say that a couple of my personal heroes are Thanatos in Vancouver, and Life over in NY, and I hope to emulate and live up to their examples of giving of themselves to help others.
Having worked as a firefighter, paramedic, and as a US veteran, I am familiar with uniformed public safety and service. But now I want to contribute something to the community pro bono publico.
I hope that through the network, I will be able to share ideas, and perhaps more importantly, connect to other heroes.
--Backup