Back in 92 when I was interning with the RI State Climatologist they had annual SNE Coop meetings. I went to 2, those guys and gals had some great stories of getting up at 6 and trucking through snow hurricanes lightning etc to get readings. As dedicated as they come, many were older so I imagine that's why those long term coops are no longer. Special people serving the greater good. I was involved in ground truthing doppler radar so I had the pleasure of going to many of the sites and talking with the folks. Many a sandwich and beer was consumed. Lot of people take things for granted but it was the peeps on the ground who help develop your apps etc.