The fire department example is revealing. It's primary responsibility is to prevent fires. It's dramatic responsibility is to perform to "perfection" snuffing out fires if they occur. Few firemen take on these responsibilities because they are motivated to make a lot of money.
But ask who a fire department "reports to," and one usually scratches the head. Ultimately, it's responsible for all the lives and property within its primary jurisdiction. Firemen have a mission so obvious that it seldom has to be stated.