It seems like every time firefighters answer a fire alarm, no matter how suited up they are, one foot is already poised in the possibility of a disaster. The drama unfolding in these 25 intimate stills that document the story of the firefighter says it all too clearly; firefighters are heroes. Their determination and courage in battling the flames and their strength as well as gentleness in stressful situations are truly priceless acts of pure heroism.

25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 SEE ALSO: 25 Life Hacks That Actually Don't Help Make Your Life Better » NOW WATCH: 25 Best Netflix Original Movies Subscribe to List25