Most professional (non-volunteer) fire fighters work 24 hour shifts. This includes three meals and an 8-10 hours of down time. It wouldn't be too uncommon for a fire fighter coming off his day to et mandated another 12 hours, totalling 36 hours.

Sucks, I agree, but this is not 36 sleepless hours. Likely he had 10-12 hours of rest in his 36 hour shift. It is not the same as if a desk jockey worked 36 hours straight.