Crime & Safety
First Responder: Firefighter Paramedic Matt Steindl
Firefighter and paramedic Matt Steindl became a public service officer after viewing the events and aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.
Name: Matt Steindl
D.O.B.: 12/26/69
Hometown: Stillwater, OK
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Rank/Title: Firefighter, Paramedic
How long have you been with the Gulfport Fire Department?
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Two Years
What do you like about your job?
"(I) love helping people. (The) variation in my duties everyday."
What do you dislike about your job?
"There's nothing I dislike."
What inspired you to become a firefighter?
"Hurricane Katrina. I lived in New Orleans and that inspired me to make a change in my career path. I was a fine arts salesperson." Steindl adds that he moved right before Hurricane Katrina hit.
What do you like about Gulfport?
"I like the feel. It's a small town, but still an urban area. I like the diversity, they're accepting of all people."
What do you want the general public to know about the Gulfport Fire Department?
"That we are here to help people and there is no job too small or too large for us. I'm happy to help with something as trivial as rescuing a cat out of a tree to something like helping your spouse through a heart attack."
Do you know a First Responder you think we should feature? E-mail editor Cherlene Willis at cherlene.willis@patch.com.
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