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Speed of sound skydiver wants to be firefighter

The man who fell to earth faster than anyone says he plans to pursue a career in fire and rescue

LONDON — Felix Baumgartner made history last month by being the first human to break the speed of sound in a freefall when he skydived from 24 miles above the earth. Now, he plans to turn his attention to being a firefighter and rescue helicopter pilot.

In a recent interview with BBC, Baumgartner said that he is already a licensed helicopter pilot and that he now intends to work to help others.

Baumgartner became a sensation when he stepped out of a tiny capsule raised by a balloon and plunged toward earth in his successful bid to set the world record for the highest jump and fastest fall.

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