October 6-7, 2012 October Memorial Weekend Memorial National Fallen Firefighters Fallen National

Remembering National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 2012 ® Post Office Drawer 498 Office Drawer Post Emmitsburg, MarylandEmmitsburg, 21727 301.447.1365 • 301.447.1645 fax www.firehero.org • [email protected] • www.firehero.org National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Firefighters Fallen National Charolette R. Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Charolette R. Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D.

Boley • Jeffrey S. Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis Boley • Jeffrey S. Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis

James Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott James Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott

T. Davis • David L. Eason • Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E. T. Davis • David L. Eason • Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E.

Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller III • James M. Hall Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller III • James M. Hall

Charolette R. Charolette R. • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Adair • Glenn L. Allen •

William F. Hopman • David Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger William F. Hopman • David Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Boley • Jeffrey S. Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Boley • Jeffrey S. Jr. • Chip A. Imker Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. • Kyle Kenneth King • Jr. • Chip A. Imker Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. • Kyle Kenneth King • Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis James Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis James Joseph A. “Joey” King Jr. • Derek Joseph A. “Joey” King Jr. • Derek Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott T. Davis • David L. Eason • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott T. Davis • David L. Eason • Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E. Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E.

• John J. Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller Lackovic Jr. • John J. Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller Lackovic Jr. III • James M. Hall • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • III • James M. Hall • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • • Donald William F. Hopman • David S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Jr. • Chip A. Imker • Kyle Kenneth King • Joseph A. “Joey” R. Lam • • Donald William F. Hopman • David S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Jr. • Chip A. Imker • Kyle Kenneth King • Joseph A. “Joey” R. Lam • King Jr. • Derek Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle • John J. Lackovic Jr. • Donald R. Lam • Thomas J. “Todd” Lange • King Jr. • Derek Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle • John J. Lackovic Jr. • Donald R. Lam • Thomas J. “Todd” Lange • Thomas J. “Todd” Thomas J. “Todd” Elias Macias-Jaquéz • Travis L. Miller • Larry G. Nelson • Terrell G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Johnny L. Norton • Elias Macias-Jaquéz • Travis L. Miller • Larry G. Nelson • Terrell G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris Scott Osenenko • Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris Lange • Elias Lange • Elias K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E.

Macias-Jaquéz Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas M. Shields • • Travis L. Macias-Jaquéz Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas M. Shields • • Travis L. Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Miller • Larry G. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Nelson • Terrell Miller • Larry G. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Nelson • Terrell Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Waldner • William George Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael Waldner • William George Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Jonathan C. W. Young Jonathan C. W. Young

Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez

• Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G.

Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas

M. Shields • Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert M. Shields • Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert

J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Waldner • William George J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Waldner • William George

Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Jonathan C. W. Young Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Jonathan C. W. Young “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains, and is immortal.” —Albert Pine For those who have answered their last call . . .

Before the Memorial Weekend, the Foundation asked families to submit information about their fallen firefighters for the Remembrance Book. If no information was received, the best information available to us for each firefighter was used. We regret any inadvertent errors or omissions. Fallen firefighter profiles can be viewed on the Foundation’s Web site at: www.firehero.org . . . we honor you and your loved ones. Remembering David L. Eason West Memphis Fire Department – Arkansas Career Firefighter Recruit Date of Death: January 26, 2011 Age: 38

avid Eason died January 26, 2011, after suffering firefighter to die in the line of duty since the depart- D cardiac arrest during a training exercise ment was founded in 1930. at the Arkansas Fire Academy in Camden. He was hired by the West Memphis David was remembered as strong and Fire Department in December 2010 hardworking. and was in the process of training to receive his state certification. He is survived by his wife and He was the first West Memphis two young children. Remembering Glenn L. Allen Los Angeles Fire Department – California Career Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: February 18, 2011 Age: 61

lenn was born on October 28, 1949. After com- paramedic” and then went on to say that Glenn was G pleting grades K-7 in the San Fernando the best. Valley, he moved to the San Francisco area where he graduated from Oceana Off duty, along with nurturing his fam- High School. Glenn loved anything ily, Glenn spent a good portion of his to do with airplanes, completing time serving Valley Presbyterian several college courses in aero- Church (VPC) in North Hills, nautics. One goal for 2011 was California. Fulfilling many to satisfy the requirements for roles at VPC, including choir his private pilot’s license. His member and deacon, he other hobbies included play- gladly gave many hours to ing the cello, wood carv- making sure the church ing and wood working in was in good order. From general. He would create putting in sump pumps to very detailed items such fixing office equipment, he as beautiful, hand-carved was always ready and able Christmas ornaments for to tackle any problem that family and friends. He also might come up. built much of the furniture in his home, to the great He approached life with a delight of his wife! true servant’s heart, always seeing to it that others’ needs In 1970, he moved back to were met before his own. He southern California and worked could calm an intense situation for a private ambulance ser- in a matter of moments, and you vice. Glenn followed in the steps knew he would take care of every- of his father, an LAFD engineer, and thing. He just had a way of making was hired by the Los Angeles City Fire everything all right no matter what was Department. He graduated with the ambulance going on around you. To his family, Glenn was training academy class of July 1974, completed para- a loving example of what a husband, father, brother medic school in March of 1976, and later cross-trained and son should be. To his fire comrades, he was a loyal as a firefighter. He spent over 36 years proudly serving friend and true brother. the citizens of Los Angeles. Glenn is survived by his mother, Alberta Holtze; his He took great pleasure in his role as firefighter/para- brother, Bruce Allen; his sister, Deborah Abrams; his medic. His captain stated that he worked around the wife, Melanie Allen; his daughter, Rebecca; his son-in- station like a rookie and was a “captain’s dream.” In law, Brandon; and his first grandchild, Nathaniel, who writing to his family, one of his coworkers indicated was born the day following Glenn’s entrance into the that it was a high compliment to call someone a “good presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Remembering William Floyd Hopman Quincy Volunteer Fire Department – California Volunteer Captain Date of Death: January 11, 2011 Age: 53

he three Fs were very important to Bill Hopman: his private pilot’s license and went on to haul freight T family, firefighting, and flying. for Union Flights from 1984-2000 before becoming the chief pilot for Foxen Born August 1, 1957, to the late Ray Canyon Motorsports and Alan and Frances (Deal) Hopman in Johnson Performance Engines for Santa Barbara, California, Bill was the past 12 years. Just two days raised and attended school in before his death, Bill gave his Solvang, California, where his first flying lesson to his son, family operated a plumbing Robert. business. He is a 1975 grad- uate of Santa Ynez Valley When not helping out at the High School. He went on fire department, Bill could to attend Cal Poly San Luis be found at his second Obispo before obtaining a home, his hangar on the degree in mechanical engi- Quincy Gansner Airport. neering at the University of Be it working on his Nevada Reno. Cessna 210, PiperPacer, North American AT-6, While helping out in the sharing his expertise with family plumbing business other aircraft owners on the on a service call, Bill met a field, or working on his clas- pretty young lady named Lisa sic Ford Mustang and other Wintersteen with whom he later automobiles, Bill was doing commuted to junior college. As what he loved. A drag racing their love for one another grew, the enthusiast, Bill enjoyed helping couple was married in the backyard of out on Alan Johnson’s Funny and Bill’s parents’ ranch on July 14, 1984. The Top Fuel Cars, starting when he and couple was blessed with one precious son. Alan were youngsters together.

Bill served the Quincy Fire Department for 14 years and Bill was always there to lend a hand to those in need. He was promoted to captain in 2010. He was a mentor to found great pleasure in helping out with the Johnsville new firefighters, taking great pride in their success at Junior Ski Team and co-coaching his son in the sport. mastering skills. He was Captain Fix-It, able to fix what- He was also an assistant leader with Troop 151 of the ever was broken at the station. He died of a heart attack Boy Scouts of America. after fighting a chimney fire. His son, Robert, contin- ues in his footsteps as a firefighter for the Quincy Fire In passing, Bill leaves his loving wife of 26 years, Department. Lisa, and the pride of his life, his son, Robert Henry Hopman. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Off duty, Bill piloted a Learjet 35 all over the United John and Bill Wintersteen and mother-in-law, Nancy States for a drag racing team. At age 17, he received Wintersteen. Remembering Vincent A. Perez San Francisco Fire Department – California Career Lieutenant Date of Death: June 2, 2011 Age: 48

incent Aceves Perez was born on April 9, 1963, at name, “Creature,” that stayed with him into adulthood V Saint Mary’s Hospital in San Francisco. and into the firehouse. Vince was a great fire- Vince was one of five children. He man. He was always calm and deliberate at attended Saint Charles Elementary and fires and other emergencies. On more Archbishop Riordan High School. than one occasion, Vince’s actions Vince grew up on Wool Street in ensured that the crew came home the Bernal Heights district of safely. Vince was very humble San Francisco. He loved vintage and, in his own words, “a lone automobiles. As a teenager, wolf.” Vince was also known Vince completely restored for his world famous “Italian his two-tone 1951 Lincoln Sausage Stuffed Pork Roasts.” and cruised with the car full As he would say, “I’ve of his buddies every chance honed this recipe to perfec- he could. tion!” Vince made lieuten- ant and left Station 7 for Vincent served as a mem- Engine Company 26 in the ber of the United States Diamond Heights District Marine Corps and was of San Francisco. also an Alameda County Sheriff’s Deputy before join- On June 2, 2011, while fighting ing the San Francisco Fire a structural fire and attempting Department. to search for victims, Lieutenant Vincent A. Perez was overcome On April 2, 1990, Vince joined by severe heat and fire conditions. the San Francisco Fire Department. Vince passed away at San Francisco He soon became a member of General Hospital that morning. We all Engine Company 7 in the city’s Mission miss you, Creature, and know that you District. Vince had a childhood nick- will never be replaced. Remembering Anthony “Tony” Valerio San Francisco Fire Department – California Career Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: June 4, 2011 Age: 53

n June 4, 2011, Firefighter/Paramedic Anthony M. service will continue to serve as a fine example to his O Valerio of the San Francisco Fire fellow firefighters. Department died at the age of 53 from injuries he sustained while serving in Self-described as “The People’s Para- the line of duty. His death brought medic,” Firefighter/Paramedic Tony immense sorrow and loss to the Valerio will be remembered for people of the local community his charismatic smile and per- and throughout the state. He sonality, for his quick wit and was a shining star amongst uncanny ability to find humor San Francisco’s courageous in any situation. He enjoyed and was a dedicated fire- spending time with family fighter/paramedic for 27 and friends and indulging years. in his varied interests. He was a man who lived his Born on August 14, 1957, life as an adventure. He was in Fort Monmouth, New an avid surfer, scuba diver, Jersey, while his father cyclist, athlete, a world served in the U.S. Army, traveler who spoke several Firefighter/Paramedic Tony languages, a San Francisco Valerio was raised in Italy, sourdough bread baker, and Hawaii, and South San a volunteer for the SFFD Toy Francisco, California. He was Program. a 1975 graduate of El Camino High School. After earning a Firefighter/Paramedic Tony Valerio degree from San Francisco State was a loving son who grew up University, Tony Valerio began his into a good man, brother, uncle, and public service career in 1980 as an friend. He is survived by his parents, EMT with Acme Western in Oakland, Lorraine and Frank; his sisters, Marina, California. In 1984, he was hired on with the Donna, Jacqueline, and Laura; his brothers, San Francisco Department of Public Health (DPH) as Mark and Kevin; his sister-in-law, Lynda Valerio; his a paramedic. brothers-in-law, Bill Walkup, Tim Samsel, and Joe Fanfa; his nephews, Austin and Jared Samsel, Kevin With the merger of the DPH and the San Francisco Fire Mullins, and Thomas Walkup; his nieces, Melissa Department in 1999, Tony Valerio became a firefighter/ Walkup and Stephanie Dumm; his former wife, Ellen; paramedic. Throughout his years with the SFFD, he was and a host of other family members and many long- known as an exemplary model of professionalism, hon- time and loyal friends. esty, and integrity. He was immensely respected by his colleagues for his compassion, kindness, and patience He served as an example to all who served with him and for his fellow man in time of need. His dedication to will always be remembered and forever be in our hearts. Remembering Robert Dean Watts Windsor Volunteer Fire Department – Connecticut Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 18, 2011 Age: 50

obert died quite suddenly of a heart attack while He was a single father and did a marvelous job of raising R responding to a fire call. It was sudden, his son and daughter. He gave them a sound and he did not suffer. He died doing what set of values to live by. he loved. He was a good friend who would do He served in the United States anything for you. His contribution Marines for four years and saw to the Windsor Volunteer Fire action in the Persian Gulf. Department and the town of Windsor, Connecticut, will be He coached his son’s Little greatly missed. League baseball team, and was involved in his son’s He is truly loved and missed Cub Scout troop. by all of his friends and family.

Remembering Joshua O. Burch Florida Forest Service – Florida Career Forest Ranger/Firefighter Date of Death: June 20, 2011 Age: 31

oshua was born on July 23, 1979, in Lake City, wasn’t working, he was taking his family on the boat to J Florida. Joshua grew up with his loving swim in the Santa Fe River. parents, Hollis Burch and Mollie Gaylard. Joshua always had a special place for In 2001, Joshua accepted a position his mama and daddy, and a day with the Division of Forestry in never went by that he didn’t talk Lake City, Florida, as a wildland to them on the phone. firefighter. He spent ten years of his life doing exactly what he Joshua met his wife, Danielle, loved. Joshua was very pas- in 1995. They married in sionate and excited about his June 1999 and celebrated job and looked forward to their 12th wedding anni- fighting fires as they arose. versary in June 2011. They Many people go their whole were blessed with two sons, life never finding that “per- Jeremy in 2002 and Jacob fect” job that makes them in 2005. Joshua’s sons were feel fulfilled, but Joshua his pride and joy, and he was fortunate enough to lived each day to the fullest do just that. There were with each of them. He loved many times over the years to show them the great out- that he contemplated taking doors and to teach them the other jobs that offered more respect that it deserved. He money, but at the end of the shared his passion for hunting day he couldn’t leave the job and fishing with his sons and fre- that made him so happy. He had quently took them on the boat or gained great respect from his fel- 4-wheeler to fish and scout out the low coworkers and supervisors alike. deer for the coming hunting season. It was always known that if someone Joshua loved to cook, and was often found needed help, Joshua was right there to give a outside cooking on either the grill or the smoker. He helping hand, without being asked. He loved his family also loved to go to the river, and you could bet that if he and he loved his coworkers.

Remembering Brett L. Fulton Florida Forest Service – Florida Career Forest Ranger/Firefighter Date of Death: June 20, 2011 Age: 52

rett Fulton was an outdoorsman. He loved being Florida. On June 20, 2011, he lost his life trying to put B in the woods fighting fire, hunting, out the Blue Ribbon Fire in Hamilton County, or fishing. His love of putting out fires Florida, which was in the same area that began when he joined the Division of his tower site was located. In a field of Forestry in Lake City, Florida, in pine trees, the dozer he was operat- 1998 as an aluminum welder. In ing became hung up on a stump. 1998, there were multiple fires started in our hometown area. Brett was born June 26, 1958. He started being involved in His family moved from Ohio fires as a parts runner, deliv- to Wellborn, Florida, when ering parts to the dozer he was three years old. He and truck operators so the was very close to his mother machinery could be fixed. and loved her dearly. He came from a large loving Once a position as forest family of three sisters and ranger/wildland firefighter one brother. was available, Brett applied and received his lifelong Brett was a wonderful, car- dream career. In 2003, ing, and fun loving hus- Brett went to Nacogdoches band to Margaret, his wife County, Texas, to recover of 32 years. He was a won- debris from the Space Shuttle derful father to his daugh- that crashed and seven people ter, Christina, and son, Brett lost their lives. He was in Texas Michael. One of his favorite pas- for two weeks recovering what times was playing with his grand- was left of the Space Shuttle. In 2005, daughter, Sydney, and grandson, Brett went to Louisiana to help the Luke, who cherished him. Brett loved families and businesses that were flooded dressing up in the Smokey Bear costume from Hurricane Katrina. He helped storm vic- just to see the smiles on children’s faces, includ- tims by supplying them with ready to eat meals, water, ing his grandchildren. and ice. In 2006, Brett went to Oregon to help extin- guish fires that were threatening people’s homes. In He also found the time to mentor his nephews and good 2007, he spent endless hours fighting the Bugaboo Fire friends. He enjoyed playing basketball, Call of Duty on that threatened homes in his hometown of Lake City, his Xbox, and watching the Florida Gators play football. Remembering Gregory Leon Harris Miami Dade County Fire Rescue Department – Florida Career Firefighter Date of Death: April 22, 2012 Age: 40

regory Leon Harris was born July 12, 1970, to tified as a police officer through Valencia Community G Nathaniel and Nezzie Harris. The eldest College. With a variety of skills under his belt, of four, he had a special and loving bond Greg prayed about which field to work with each of his siblings. As a child, he in. Within a few months the Miami was inquisitive and eager to experi- Dade Fire Department offered him ence new things. Greg accepted a job, and he began his career as a the Lord Jesus Christ as his per- firefighter. sonal savior at an early age, believing that God was his Greg continued to work hard, firm foundation and with earning certifications for him all things were possible. driver operator, marine fire- Greg had a strong passion to fighter, and HAZMAT tech- serve people. He attended nician. He served with the Antioch Missionary Baptist department honor guard Church, where he was one and on the urban search of the leaders of the singles’ and rescue team. He chose and men’s ministry, served to work in one of Miami as an usher, and sang in the Dade’s busier battalions, choir. serving the community in which he was raised and In high school Greg com- which he cared about so peted in track and field, win- much. With over twelve years ning first place for his school of outstanding service, Greg district. After graduation, he gave his life serving others. entered the United States Marine Corps. Due to his leadership ability, Greg had a special passion for the he was chosen to be on the frontlines youth in his community and served as defending the U.S. in the Gulf War. Greg a coach for several youth football teams. received the National Defense Service Medal, He helped develop the players’ skills and was a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, South West Asia mentor to the boys, helping them recognize the impor- Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Meritorious tance of an education. He felt he was making a differ- Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and Navy Unit ence that money or accolades could not buy. Commendation. Greg was a man of courage, determination, wisdom, After his honorable discharge, Greg worked as a hospi- and character. People of all walks of life were captured tal security guard, where he was exposed to the world by his friendliness, humor, and spontaneity. He was a of emergency medicine. He studied to be an EMT at hero and a man of bravery and faith. May the life that he Miami Dade Community College, became a state certi- lived speak for him. He has fought the good fight of faith fied firefighter at Florida State Fire College, and was -cer to the very end, and God is well pleased. Remembering James L. von Roden Lee Community Volunteer Fire Department – Florida Volunteer Captain Date of Death: March 12, 2011 Age: 49

ames von Roden collapsed March 12, 2011, while he was also president of the department’s board of J responding to the fire station for a brush directors. fire, and died later that day. He is survived by his wife, Shirley von He was born in Little Rock, Roden; daughters, Lori Salsgiver Arkansas, on March 26, 1961, and Dowdy and Stephanie Kelly; had lived in Lee, Florida, since two brothers; a sister; and four 1998. He was the owner/opera- grandchildren. tor of Von’s Auto in Madison. He was a member of the Jim always had a smile on his Lee First United Methodist face and told the best stories. Church. He was an asset to the com- munity, always willing to go A captain with the Lee above and beyond the call Volunteer Fire Department, of duty. He was a caring, giving, and kind man. Remembering Terrell G. Nielsen Sr. Bryan County Fire Department – Georgia Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 9, 2010 Age: 56

erry Nielsen, Engineer #692, joined the South Guard, Terry spent his childhood living in Hawaii and T Bryan County Fire Department as a ser- numerous mainland coastal communities. Like vice to the Richmond Hill community a fairytale, he met his sweetheart, Kathy, in in 2002. Little did he know when he high school. They married and shared signed up that it would become a life filled with the greatest love and one of his later in life passions. happiness. They are blessed with He didn’t join to drive the fire two sons, Terrell and Jeff, along truck or wear the gear. He did with four beautiful grandchil- it to help a growing com- dren, Hayley, Nathan, Jeffrey, munity staff its department and recent addition Blake. and was willing to do what- Terry was always an out- ever task was necessary. At standing role model for his times he could be quite sons, preparing them to be outspoken, but he always the same kind of wonderful cast a different light on the father that he had been for issues at hand. Terry was them. He loved coaching voted South Bryan County Little League baseball and Rookie Firefighter of the taught many children the Year in 2003, Georgia value of winning and losing. State Firefighter Rookie of Family was always a prior- the Year in 2004, and was ity, and he was an extremely presented with honors by involved father and husband. Governor Perdue in Atlanta, He also served as Master of Georgia. Zerubbabel Lodge #15 F&M.

On September 9, 2010, devastation Recalling his fondest memories of and sorrow struck his family, friends his dad, Terrell reflects, “No matter and community. Terry lost the battle of his how long a day Dad would have, he would life but, as he taught them, his wife and fam- always make time to do something with us ily stand strong and carry themselves with dignity and every day.” And this is why I loved him so much. Jeff pride. Terry never wanted to be the center of attention refers to his dad as his hero and hopes he can be half the nor receive credit for things he did for others so unself- man his dad was known to be. ishly. Today, he is honored for his fire service, but he is also receiving credit for the selfless acts he did for others. As Terry’s family, we hold our memories close in our hearts. The things we learned from this great man are Born in Rangely, Colorado, to Terrell and Wanda Coy, always on our minds. He will forever be a part of our and later adopted by William Nielsen of the U.S. Coast daily lives, and may his legacy live forever. Remembering Vincent J. Cruz Guam Fire Department – Guam Career Lieutenant Date of Death: September 29, 2011 Age: 40

incent Junior Cruz was born November 22, 1970, Vince earned a certificate in fire science technology V in Tamuning, Guam. He was the young- from Guam Community College, immediately est child of Vicente and Tomasa, with sib- starting his career. He joined the ranks lings Marvin, Frances, and LouAnn. of one of Guam’s finest and became a Guam firefighter. Vince dedicated 19 He spent his whole life on Guam. years of his life as a firefighter, with In June 1988, Vince graduated his first assignment at Engine with a Vocational High School Company 11 Talofofo Fire Diploma in technical elec- Station, with many rotations tronics. In December 2007, in between, and his final duty he earned a Bachelor of with Engine Company 12 Science in public administra- Astumbo Fire Station. tion from the University of Guam. During Vince’s youth Vince was tall and had a and adulthood he partici- very serious demeanor. pated in school and com- Some thought, what a munity sports that included giant! In reality, he was the armed/unarmed drill teams, most patient and gentle volleyball, soccer, bowling, person. He enjoyed play- and baseball/softball. At the ing pranks, making jokes, age of 18, Vince joined the and just having fun. Vince Army Reserves with his MOS enjoyed life to the fullest. He in Military Police. In December was a very passionate firefighter 1990, Vince was deployed with his who loved helping people, teach- unit and served his country in what ing all he knew, and learning along is known as Desert Storm. the way. Vince’s family and friends will always remember him as a humble Vince met his wife, AnnMarie, in August and dedicated son, sibling, uncle, husband, 1987. He proposed to AnnMarie every year they and firefighter who made a difference. were dating and did not give up until they married in December 1990. He was so in love with his wife that he On September 28, 2011, Vince reported to work and married her again in December 2000. They celebrated their responded to a full day and night of medic runs, with 20th wedding anniversary in 2010. Vince was surrounded his last run logged in at 12:45 midnight. Then, dur- by numerous nieces and nephews who adored him and in ing the early morning of September 29, 2011, before many ways looked to him for advice and moral support. being relieved of duty, Vince passed away. In some sense, Vince is still doing what he does best; although After his return from deployment, Vince spent a number his soul is gone, his heart and spirit look over his fellow of years working for the private sector. In January 1993, firefighters. Remembering Caleb Nathanael Hamm Bureau of Land Management, Bonneville Interagency Hotshot Crew – Idaho Career Seasonal Firefighter Date of Death: July 7, 2011 Age: 23

aleb was born on August 25, 1987, and began life as mother earth and recycling caused him to strike a deal C a tiny 3½ pound baby with big obstacles with his parents – If they agreed to boycott the to overcome. His parents were told not to purchase of Styrofoam plates, he would expect him to live. So he defied the odds wash the dishes. Once, when visit- early on and boy did he live each and ing his grandparents in Springdale, every moment of his short life. The Arkansas, Caleb was appalled that following words describe Caleb: they didn’t recycle. Before he fearless, thrill seeker, honest, left, he had a system set up for trustworthy, loyal, affectionate, them. and loving. He marched to the beat of a different drum- Caleb loved his family. mer and always remained When he was little, he his authentic self. In fact, always told his mother, the Biblical meaning of his “You’re my favorite mom.” middle name—Nathanael— Into his adult life, he never means “in whom there is ended a call or a visit with nothing false.” his parents or brother, Seth, without saying, “I love you.” Caleb loved nature and being outdoors, so when There are two values David his family moved to Idaho and Lynnette instilled in their several years ago, he and his sons. 1) Regardless of your brother, Seth, totally embraced materials possession or the lack life there and flourished. They thereof, all you really own is your spent countless weekends ski- name, so let that name be defined ing or snowboarding in the winter, as honesty, integrity and someone and swimming and hiking trails in others can count upon. 2) If you are the summer. Many times, Caleb’s hik- going to work at something, give 120 per- ing companion was his beloved basset hound, cent, or it’s not worth doing. Princess, who is now 13 and accompanied him just about everywhere. Caleb gave more than 120 percent and gave his life doing something he loved and was passionate about. And he More memories for Caleb, his father, and brother were did it in the great outdoors he loved. made on their hunting trips, which included sitting around the campfire sharing stories. Caleb loved the Someone once said, “The purpose of life’s journey is Native American culture and enjoyed making elabo- not to arrive at the grave with a well-preserved body, rate dream catchers from nature’s products, such as elk but rather to slide in sideways, completely used up, and deer horns, and feathers. Caleb was completing a yelling and screaming, what a ride!” This is how Caleb degree in fire ecology. His obsession with taking care of lived his life. Remembering Daniel C. Dare Avon Fire Protection District – Illinois Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 2, 2011 Age: 52

aniel “Double D” Dare suffered a fatal heart attack Association) judge. He served as a volunteer for the Dafter responding to a late night EMS call John Deere Classic the past two years and on for a sick child during a blizzard. He was the Knox County Fair Board tractor pull- born June 18, 1958, in Canton, Illinois, ing committee. to Bernard and Carol Dene (Foster) Dare. He married Katherine Dan is survived by his wife, Kathy; Louise Kjellander on October 1, his daughter, Michelle Karisa 1978, at Abingdon United Dare; his son, Eric Daniel Methodist Church. He was a Dare; his parents, Bernard resident of Avon, Illinois. and Carol Dene Dare; his brother, David F. Dare; and In addition to being a vol- his nephew, Dylan F. Dare. unteer firefighter, Dare had been with Avon First Dan was a farmer and semi- Responders for 20 years truck driver. He enjoyed and was considered a main- tractor pulling, hunting stay of the department. wild turkey and deer, and fishing. He also enjoyed He graduated in 1976 from coaching and watching his Abingdon High School and kids play sports, as well as was in football, FFA, 4-H, watching the Chicago Cubs and choir. He also sang in and Bears. the choir at Abingdon United Methodist Church. He was a He was remembered as a dedi- member of the Abingdon Jaycees, cated person who tried to help Avon Lions Club, Avon Summer Ball everyone he could. His death was a Board, Avon Businessmen Association huge loss for his family, the fire service, and was an ITPA (Illinois Tractor Pulling and the entire community. Remembering Patrick B. Hannon Chicago Fire Department – Illinois Career Lieutenant Date of Death: January 15, 2011 Age: 51

t. Patrick B. Hannon, 51, entered the Chicago Fire ful daughters, Katherine (“Katie”) and Bridget. Pat’s L Department on his birthday in 1988. He girls were his biggest pride and joy. He loved said it was one of the best days of his life. attending their sporting events and con- Prior to working with Chicago, Pat certs. He always had a video camera worked in Yosemite as a firefighter. on hand and showered them with While he was there he climbed words of encouragement. El Capitan (a 5,800 foot vertical wall) on several occasions in Pat was a morning person, Yosemite National Park. and every morning he would wake us up with, “UP, UP, When Pat started in THE SUN IS UP. IT IS Chicago he went to Truck A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN Company 8. During his THE HANNON HOUSE career he also worked at UNLIKE MOST DAYS.” Truck Company 17 and His belly laugh was infec- Squad 1. After being pro- tious as well as entertain- moted to lieutenant he ing. His whereabouts were relieved in the 1st and 4th never a mystery due to his districts until he found signature whistling. himself assigned to Truck Company 8 again. Pat was As I said before, he comes high on the list to be pro- from a large family. He has moted to captain just before he his immediate family, in-laws, passed away. Pat earned many aunts, uncles, and cousins. There awards for his services. He loved is also his fire department family, being a firefighter. a strong supportive family, which has been there to support his wife He also loved a good game of golf, a stinky and children during these difficult times. cigar, and a good laugh. Pat comes from a They share the same thoughts of how much large family and leaves behind his parents, Lynn and he is missed. He loved working for the Chicago Fire Bernard, and his six brothers and sisters. In 1989, Pat Department, he loved life in general, but most of all he met his wife, Michelle, while he was working T8 and she loved his wife and children and made sure they were on Ambulance 19. They married and had two beauti- always his priority. Remembering Corey Ray Shaw Du Quoin Fire Department – Illinois Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: June 17, 2011 Age: 22

orey was born August 10, 1988, in Du Quoin, dream was to fight fires and coach football; during his C Illinois. He was of Catholic faith. Corey short life he did both. Corey loved being a fire- was a lifelong resident of Du Quoin; he fighter and never missed a call or training was a Du Quoin Indian football player. session he was available for. Corey grew up with his parents and his sister, Megon. He was a happy Corey loved his family—fishing child who loved the outdoors; with Uncle Ray, working in the boating, fishing, and swim- shop with Uncle Mike, and ming were some of his favor- hanging in the Everglades with ite things to do as a boy. As he Uncle Bill. He always had grew he became involved in a special relationship with weightlifting and achieved his Aunt Robin. He loved his dream of being a start- his cousins and his niece, ing football player for his Olivia. They aggravated high school varsity football each other to no end. He team. had many friends, but his best buddy, his “brother,” Corey was married to was his brother-in-law, Joe Nichole Hoffner. They have Provart. Corey could not a daughter, Camryn, and have loved him more if was lost an infant son, Cayden. his actual brother, and the He was a proud father and feeling was mutual. husband and could often be heard saying, “I’m livin’ the Corey’s assistant principal, Jeff dream.” He and Nichole were buy- Gossett, often said Corey had an ing a home. He worked very hard for empathetic heart, and he did. As General Tire. hard as he was on the outside, he was as tender as can be on the inside. Corey was a Corey was always easy to find. He was either man’s man who was never afraid to say, “I love with Cam and Nichole, working out with Dad, or on the you,” to those he loved, and he loved many. Corey was lake fishing when there were no fires to fight. known for his bright blue eyes and big toothy smile and as a friend you could count on. Corey was the son a man Corey was in Firefighter II class and still probationary dreams of and a mother takes great pride in raising. He when he was killed. He was raised around the Du Quoin was a fine young man who will be missed terrifically and Fire Department, where his father is chief. Corey’s never forgotten. Remembering Steve Auch Indianapolis Fire Department – Indiana Career Battalion Chief Date of Death: February 1, 2011 Age: 56

teve Auch was born May 16, 1954, in Indianapolis, enthusiasm for and optimistic view of his beloved S Indiana, to Carl and Betty Auch. He suf- Indianapolis Colts football team was well known. fered a fatal heart attack at home after returning from a 24-hour shift. The firefighters in Steve’s battalion Steve followed his father, IFD would be the first to say they had Firefighter Carl Auch on the the best battalion chief on the department and was appointed job. “He was knowledgeable and to the IFD on March 3, 1978. fair. He really took care of his His assignments included firefighters.” Engine 21, Engine 12, and Engine 11. In 1986, he was Steve was one of the original promoted to lieutenant. IFD members who worked He served on Rescue 19, on FDIC since its first year Rescue 2, Battalion 2 aide, in Indianapolis in 1995. He and shift EMS duty officer worked tirelessly and with- until his promotion to cap- out complaint year-round tain in 1999. As captain, on every aspect of FDIC he served on Medic Squad planning—from obtaining 10, Engine 11, and as chief sites for hands-on training of EMS from 2001-2007. In to lining up local dignitar- 2003, Steve was promoted ies to speak at the opening to battalion chief; he was ceremony to obtaining “fire- appointed Battalion Chief 11-A house” furniture for the stage in 2007 until his death. for Bruno “Unplugged,” an FDIC favorite. He was an EMT/paramedic and was certified in BERT, HAZMAT, Steve leaves behind his beloved TOSS, and Instructor 1 & 2. He was active wife, Donna; children, Heather (Dave) with Peace Camp, the World Police and Fire Albrecht, Bradley (Jessica) Nichols, and Laura Games, and FDIC. He attended Manchester College. (Chris) Hamilton; mother, Betty Auch; brother, IFD Cpt. Matt (Tina) Auch; sister, Carol (Mike) Farquhar; Steve was an avid competitive bicyclist for many years. and six grandsons, Drew, Joel and Nick Albrecht, and He loved to play golf and was an avid sports fan. His Micah, Landon and Owen Hamilton. Remembering Scott T. Davis Muncie Fire Department – Indiana Career Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: June 15, 2011 Age: 40

cott Thomas Davis died June 15, 2011, in the line of Scott started his firefighting career at the age of 19 with S duty while fighting a church fire. He was the Yorktown Fire Department, where he born on June 27, 1970, in Muncie, the son served for 15 years, including five years as of Thomas and Vicki (Ergen) Davis, chief. In June 2005, he was hired on to and graduated from Yorktown High the Muncie Fire Department, where School in 1989. he served for six years. He was a member of Muncie Professional Scott married Raeanne Lillie on Firefighters Local #1348. June 8, 1996, at the Yorktown United Methodist Church, He is survived by his wife, where they and their three Raeanne (Lillie) Davis; his children were baptized and children, Jake (14), Emma were very active mem- (11), and Myron “Max” (9); bers. Scott was an active and his parents, Thomas member and coach in the and Vicki Davis. Wapahani Wrestling Club and a member of Buck He was remembered as a Creek Trophy Club and great firefighter, father, and Ducks Unlimited. man who was dedicated to public service. Remembering Travis L. Miller Waterloo-Grant Township Volunteer Fire Department – Indiana Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: July 20, 2011 Age: 31

ravis Miller suffered a fatal heart attack July 20, He trained actively, worked well with others, and was T 2011, several hours after operating at a always willing to help. structure fire in extreme heat conditions. He is survived by his wife, Amy; a He was born December 2, 1979, in daughter, Rebecca; his father Jerry; Angola. a sister and brother-in-law, Stacey and Max Fugate; a niece, Sierra Mr. Miller was very proud of Bard; and a nephew, Tyler Bard. and dedicated to his work He was preceded in death by for the Waterloo/Grant his mother, Monica. Township Volunteer Fire Department, where he had He was a great guy, a selfless volunteered for five years. person who put everybody’s life and well-being before his own. Remembering Timothy Ray White Cedar Lake Fire Department – Indiana Volunteer Firefighter/EMT Date of Death: August 5, 2011 Age: 50

im was born February 11, 1961, to Tommy and Tim was a firefighter/EMT and a member of the emer- T Betty White. He was brother to Tom, Gail, gency tactical team. and Tracy; best friend and husband of 30 years to Kathy; dad to Tiffani (Rob), Tim belonged to the Eagles. He was a Amy (Mike), and Jessica (Matt); security guard at the Star Plaza and grandpa to Christopher, Amber, drove a semi for a living. When he Jason, Noah, Cadden, Abbigalle, had spare time, he would play and one little guy, Zackary, golf. that he never got to meet. The grandkids just called him Pa. Tim never went anywhere without finding someone Tim was a member of he knew. Tim loved a good the Cedar Lake Fire practical joke. Anytime he Department for 20 years. started a sentence with, Tim not only joined the “Would it be wrong if department to help people I (fill in the blank with in their time of need, but something he had already because he hated it when done),” his silly grin gave the sirens would go off and him away every time. the trucks would leave and he had no idea where they Tim was a teddy bear of a were going or what was going man with a huge heart filled on. with love for his family.

Tim brought home an application Tim entered the hospital on and said, “Sign this.” When asked Saturday afternoon after a training what it was for, all he said was, “This session in the heat. Six days later he is something I wanted to do for a long passed away due to a heart attack. time—be a firefighter.” You can rest now, my love. We will be together again Tim overcame a lot to have this dream come true. some day. Standing 6'5" it is hard to believe he was afraid of heights and was very claustrophobic. By the time of his passing, You will always be my love, my life, and my heart. Remembering Jim Niles Downs Fire Department – Kansas Volunteer Captain Date of Death: January 13, 2011 Age: 59

im Niles, 59, died Thursday, January 13, 2011. He spent a lot of time studying ballistics and excelled at the J was born on September 13, 1951, in Beloit, fine art of hand-loading his own ammunition. Kansas, to Darwin “Buzz” and Ida (Greig) Niles. When Jim was 13, the fam- Jim owned and trained several horses ily moved to Loveland, Colorado, throughout his life, and enjoyed par- where he later met and married ticipating in team penning events Karen (Sheaffer) Niles. They had across the state of Kansas. He two children, Mike and Debbie. was also a familiar sight rid- ing in the Downs Celebration Jim’s interest in building Parade or sometimes even motors in the early 70’s riding his horse in places he led him to drag racing. maybe shouldn’t have been. One of the cars he drove even set a track record in Jim was a true cowboy who Cheyenne, Wyoming. He never passed up an oppor- then spent most of his life tunity to go two-stepping, working as an automotive and he and Karen led many technician for dealerships wedding grand marches in Loveland, Colorado; for couples in the area. Jim Cheyenne, Wyoming; and attended the First Christian Cawker City and Beloit, Church of Downs, Kansas. Kansas. He was ASE L1 Master Certified and owned For the last 18 years, he had been his own business, Community an active member of the Downs Auto, in Downs, for over 20 years. Volunteer Fire Department. He was elected 2nd captain in 2003, and Jim played men’s and coached wom- was promoted to 1st captain in 2006, en’s softball in Colorado. After the family the position in which he was currently moved to Kansas in the early 80’s, he helped serving. The service and camaraderie he felt coach youth league baseball as well. He always cher- with this group of men had become a joy to him that ished the time he spent being with or helping children, can’t be described in words. including Karen’s babysitting kids and especially his grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Buzz. He is sur- vived by his wife, Karen, of the home; his son, Mike, and Jim was an avid hunter and enjoyed 25 years of hunt- wife, Jonell, of Great Bend, Kansas; his daughter, Debbie ing elk in Colorado. This last fall, he even got to take Niles, of Ellinwood, Kansas; a brother, Dan Niles, of his grandson on his first elk hunt. As much as he loved Downs; a sister, Thelma Franzen, and husband, Merlin, hunting elk, his true passion was pheasant hunting over of San Angelo, Texas; his mother, Ida Niles, of Downs; good dogs with his favorite 16 gauge shotgun. Jim also and four grandchildren. Remembering Donald R. Lam Kentucky Division of Forestry – Kentucky Career Firefighter/Forest Ranger Technician Date of Death: February 17, 2011 Age: 58

onald Lam died February 17, 2011, from inju- He was my best friend, my loving husband. I met Don a Dries sustained in September 2010 while few years back. He was a close friend to my first clearing a fire break during a wildfire. He late husband. He was a logger, and my pre- was a dedicated forest ranger techni- vious husband and Don were on several cian and experienced wildland fire- jobs together. My husband passed fighter who had assisted with fire with cancer in 2008, and Don and suppression efforts on the local, I started dating one year later. We state, and national level for were married in 2009. nearly 12 years. I was so lucky to have Don He was born December 7, Lam in my life. He was a ded- 1952, in Marion, Illinois, a icated firefighter for twelve son of the late Donald Ray years, and loved it. Referring and Rose Marie Baker to wildfires, he would Lam. He was a U.S. Navy always say, “I am going to veteran and a member get the big ones.” He lived of Cedar Bluff Baptist and died for wildfires. Church. When I lost Don, I truly lost Survivors include his wife, it all. He was a kind, honest, Jeannie Swatzell Lam; a and genuine man that truly stepson, Dusty Cooper; a loved his job. Heaven got a stepdaughter, Dakota Son; logger and a forest ranger in a brother and sister-in-law, paradise. I miss him terribly, but Ronald and Brenda Lam; a I believe God sent Don Lam to my nephew, Ethan Lam; and his father- life at the right time, and I am truly in-law and mother-in-law, Kenneth blessed to have shared my life with him and Brenda Swatzell. even though it was a short while. Remembering Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks Columbia-Adair County Volunteer Fire Department – Kentucky Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: July 8, 2011 Age: 49

harles “Sparky” Sparks truly loved life and will Charles was so proud of his son, Trent. Whenever C always be remembered for the countless you would mention his son’s name there hours he worked helping others. Charles would be a twinkle in his eyes. Trent was a positive influence to anyone who was his heart. He adored Trent more knew him. than anything and was proud of the young man he has become. Charles graduated from Eastern Charles couldn’t talk about his Kentucky University in 1983 son, Trent, without the big- with a major in fire science. gest of smiles and a heart He was a deputy state fire visibly bursting with love. marshal for 23 years, a fire and rescue instructor for On July 8, 2011, at the age the Kentucky Community of 49, Firefighter Charles Technical System, assis- “Sparky” Sparks lost his life tant fire chief of the City of while serving his commu- Columbia Fire Department, nity and doing the job he a member of the Columbia- loved so much. Adair County Volunteer Fire Department for 32 Charles became a Christian years, and an EMT for the early in life and was a mem- Adair County Ambulance ber of the Columbia Christian Service. Charles was so dedi- Church. cated to his chosen professions. Charles was always smiling and Charles was a loving husband, usually had a funny story to tell. father, and son. He worked so hard His sweet and precious smile will to provide for his family. “Sparky” light up Heaven even brighter. always made time for his family. Remembering Christopher T. Stock Westport Volunteer Fire Department – Kentucky Volunteer Chief Date of Death: February 24, 2011 Age: 48

hristopher Stock was born March 11, 1962, in Explorer program into a very successful program that C Colorado to George and Sue Stock. He competed at the national level. moved to Kentucky with his family at age 14. Chris was a loving and devoted son, husband, father, and uncle. Often, Following the death of his father when asked how many children he in 1986, both Chris and his had, Chris would reply without brother, Geoff, became EMTs hesitation, “Thirteen.” He never and volunteer firemen. Chris mentioned that ten of those volunteered for the Westport were the Explorers of the Volunteer Fire Department department who still refer to for 21 years. During his Chris and his wife as Mom time, he served in several and Dad. different ranks and even- tually became chief of the Chris fathered three beau- department in 2008. Chris tiful children, Samuel, oversaw the building of Cameron, and Morgan. the new fire station from His family and his depart- beginning to end. He played ment were his life. His love an integral role, along with and devotion to his wife, his wife, Mandy, then the Mandy, was apparent to all. department’s assistant chief, He impacted many lives and in rebuilding a once defunct will be greatly missed. Remembering Michael C. Webb Fleming-Neon Volunteer Fire Department – Kentucky Volunteer Captain Date of Death: April 27, 2011 Age: 46

ichael Webb suffered a fatal heart attack at his in the classroom as he was to the fire department. He M home in Goose Creek on April 27, had also been a high school basketball coach 2011, several hours after responding for fourteen years. to an ATV accident. A member of the Fleming-Neon Volunteer Fire Webb was a graduate of Pikeville Department since 1984, he served College and was of the Baptist as the captain of fireground faith. operations. He was a mentor within the fire department, He is survived by his wife, well respected, and a friend Debbie Webb; two daughters, to all. Along with other Tamara Brooke and Brittany firefighters, he had pro- Nicole; and son, Cameron vided pit row fire services Michael. at Bristol Motor Speedway since 2008. He was a great firefighter, an excellent teacher, and a A second grade teacher at good friend. He was always Fleming-Neon Elementary willing to help somebody. School and a school bus His smile and kindness will driver, he was as dedicated never be forgotten. Remembering Scott Osenenko Livingston Parish Fire Protection District #4 – Louisiana Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: December 3, 2011 Age: 45

cott Osenenko suffered a fatal heart attack on survived by his son, Kyle Osenenko and his mother, S Saturday, December 3, 2011, while helping Kathleen Osenenko; daughter, Olivia Osenenko to rescue a family of five from a residen- and her mother, Tara Burgess Osenenko; tial structure fire. Scott was a dedicated stepchildren, Devin Lambert and volunteer firefighter for Livingston Mackenzie Richard; parents, Al and Parish Fire Protection District Pam Osenenko; brothers, Todd No. 4, where he paid the ultimate Osenenko and wife, Randy, and sacrifice while protecting his Rodd Osenenko; maternal community. He was the first grandmother, Joyce Read; and volunteer firefighter to die in numerous aunts, uncles and the line of duty in the depart- cousins in the U.S. and in ment’s 35-year history. England.

Scott was a loving father, Friends and fellow fire- son, brother, nephew and fighters said Osenenko was friend. His family, friends the model volunteer. He and the many men and never said an unkind word women he served with and was always ready to will miss him dearly. He is learn more. Remembering Christopher Joseph Peterson Ward Four Fire Protection District – Louisiana Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 3, 2011 Age: 22

hristopher Joseph Peterson was born on Christopher attended the University of Louisiana at C December­ 1, 1988, in Ruston, Louisiana, Monroe, where he earned a bachelor’s degree to Prinston and Janet Peterson. He was in biology. He graduated with honors in May welcomed home by Meghann and 2011. He was planning on continuing his Heather, his two older sisters. With education in dentistry. the birth of Christopher, our little family of five was complete. While still in high school he joined the Ward 4 Fire Department. From the fall of 1994 until the Christopher received Red spring of 2007, Christopher Cross certification and attended school ten miles was also a certified first from his Weston home. responder. When he was During Christopher’s youth, old enough, he became a he was involved in a number blood and plasma donor. of community programs, When the blood sup- including church youth ply in our area was low, group, summer reading pro- the Life Share Blood grams, and Adopt an Angel Center had Christopher’s for Christmas. number on speed dial, and he was there. The joy he found In 2001, influenced by while helping others made it his parents, Christopher clear that being a firefighter was found his first love, the his passion and purpose in life. restoration of antique vehicles He was only 13 when On September 3, 2011, Christopher he received a 1954 GMC half Joseph Peterson passed away ton pick-up that was passed down while en route to an emergency from his paternal great-grandfather. The ‘54 call. He died while doing what he loved. His GMC may have been his first restoration project, passing left a huge hole in the lives of his family, but it was not his last. He could be found with friends, and community. Christopher will be forever loved his loyal dog, Cinnamon, by his side working on and missed. a vehicle. Christopher was many things to many people. To his Christopher began high school in 2003 at Weston friends, a confidant. To his classmates, a tutor. To his High School. During the next four years he became community, a volunteer. To his sisters, a protector. To involved in sports and many extracurricular organi- his daddy, a right-hand man. To his momma, a kind, zations, track and field, BETA, FCA, FBLA, and his loving son. It was said at his funeral that if there was favorite, FFA. He received many local, state, and federal a hole to be filled, Christopher filled it. I don’t think a honors. Christopher graduated as his class valedictorian truer statement was ever said. With all my heart, I love with a 4.0 GPA. you baby. Remembering David E. Remington Sr. Shapleigh Fire & Rescue Department – Maine Volunteer Driver/Operator Date of Death: January 3, 2011 Age: 58

avid, known as “Remi,” passed away tragically David took David Jr. in to see the fire trucks many Dwhile responding to an emergency call times, and he couldn’t wait to buy him his toy on January 3, 2011. He was born April 23, fire truck. 1952, to Shirley and Henry Remington. David lived most of his life in South Highlights in David’s life included Portland, Maine, before moving buying his son his first car, watch- to Acton, Maine, in 2003. ing him graduate, and attending David Jr’s wedding to Maria. All his life he wanted to He also enjoyed the trip he become a firefighter, and he took with Lurene to Disney was honored to serve on the World in December 2010. Portland Fire Department This was their first trip and for ten years. He was sta- plane ride. One of David’s tioned in many stations as a biggest joys was his grand- driver and spent most of his son, Anthony. He was so years driving for Bramhall, excited when Anthony was Central, and Munjoy Hill. born and was always giving He loved driving the tiller him kisses. Maria and Dave truck at Bramhall. Jr. have since had a beauti- ful daughter, Josie. Though Upon moving to Acton, Dave Dave isn’t with us here, we joined the Shapleigh Volunteer know he was smiling when she Fire-Rescue Department. He was born. helped out any way he could, whether it was driving the res- David spent a lot of time with his cue, directing traffic, or becom- brother, Hank. They had a lot of fun ing the head of fire prevention. David playing paintball with Dave Jr. and would drop everything he was doing and Hank’s son, Marc. They also loved to go responded to every call he heard. He made it his camping and boating with the family. top priority to help those in need. He thoroughly enjoyed everything about the fire department, which he called David will be forever in our hearts. He is deeply missed “The Brotherhood of Brothers.” by Lurene, Dave Jr., Maria, and Anthony, as well as his brother, Hank, and wife, Patti; his mother, Shirley; sis- In 1975, David married Lurene. Lurene and David were ters-in-law, Heidi and Julie, and brother-in-law, Chet. His always together and were married for 36 wonderful nephew, Marc, and niece, Becky, also miss him dearly. years. They were the best of friends and enjoying their lives. In 1975 they had a wonderful son, David Jr. David We love him more than all the stars in the sky. He will was so happy to have a son. He was the pride of his life. always be our hero. Remembering Mark G. Falkenhan Baltimore County Fire Department, Lutherville Volunteer Fire Company – Maryland Volunteer Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: January 19, 2011 Age: 43

ark was born on December 26, 1967, in Middle a position as an emergency services instructor with M River, Maryland. Shortly after gradu- the United States Secret Service. This was ating from Mount Carmel High School, a difficult decision for Mark to make, Mark joined the Middle River but he realized that his talents as an Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue instructor and mentor could be Company, where he served as chief put to better use training others and had become a life member. to safely perform their duties. His inspiration for firefighting Mark carried his love of the came from watching the tele- fire service to the Lutherville vision show “Emergency” as Volunteer Fire Company in a child, and Mark fulfilled 2009. He was serving with one of many dreams when this fire company when he he became a career emer- answered his final alarm gency medical technician on January 19, 2011. with the Baltimore County Fire Department in 1990. Mark was the consummate professional. He was dedi- Mark married Gladys on cated to everything that he November 6, 1993. They did, most importantly to his became the parents of two wife and sons. Family was wonderful sons, Christian Mark’s first passion, and he in 1996 and Garrett in 2005. enjoyed spending time watch- Shortly after his marriage, Mark ing his sons play soccer and was promoted to paramedic. lacrosse.

In 1999, Mark became a member of Mark was totally committed to serv- the Baltimore County Fire Department ing his brothers and sisters in the emer- Honor Guard. After the tragic events gency services and was liked by everyone of 9/11, Mark traveled to New York with the he met. His broad smile and determined nature honor guard to pay his respects to many of those fallen made him a great asset to the profession. He will always heroes. Mark was very proud to be a member of the remain a hero to all he came into contact with, and his honor guard. He participated in many memorials and sacrifice will never be forgotten. other honor guard functions even after retiring from the fire department. Mark‘s favorite quote describes him best. “The man who is determined to make his world better, who is willing to He served at several stations in the eastern por- learn and to lead, the man who keeps trying and doing his tion of the county before retiring in 2006 to accept best is the man who knows how to succeed.” Remembering Paul J. Cahill Boston Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: August 29, 2007 Age: 55

aul Cahill died August 29, 2007, from injuries Cahill’s father and uncle were both detectives for the P sustained in a roof collapse while fight- Boston Police Department, and his sister ing a fire in a West Roxbury restaurant. retired from the state police. Paul loved firefighting. He was remembered by Born in Boston, Paul Cahill grew coworkers as an aggressive fire- up in Dedham, the oldest of fighter who loved the camarade- six siblings. He and his wife, rie of the fire house and helped Anne, began dating as teen- with anything that needed to agers and married in 1973. be done. After graduating from Dedham High School, Paul enjoyed fishing, taking Cahill joined the Navy, vacations, walking along serving on a tugboat in the beach, and gardening. Newport, Rhode Island. He was a simple man. He After leaving the Navy, worked two jobs to support he became an electrician. his family.

He joined the Boston Fire He is survived by his wife, Department in May 1993, Anne; his sons, Brendan at age 40, and was assigned and Adam; and his daughter, to the firehouse on Centre Shauna. Street, home to Engine 30 and Ladder 25. There is a fam- He was truly a good person, a ily tradition of public service. wonderful father, and a hero. Remembering Jon D. Davies Sr. Worcester Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: December 8, 2011 Age: 43

irefighter Jon D. Davies Sr., 43, answered his with his sons. His zest for life was never as rewarding as F final alarm in the early morning hours when he spent time with his friends and fam- of December 8, 2011, in service to his ily enjoying laughter and camaraderie. Jon department and his community, in also enjoyed his Harley-Davidson and search of a civilian who was reported the freedom of the road. missing and known to have been in the building at the time of the Firefighter Jon D. Davies Sr., fire. Minutes after entry, a cata- a 17-year veteran of the strophic failure of the founda- Worcester Fire Department, tion caused the rear of the was appointed in April 1994. structure to collapse. His fire service career started on Engine 8 and brought Jon’s dedication to service him to Engines 1&7, has been richly passed Ladder 1 and finally Rescue to his three sons. Jon D. 1. Jon also served the Davies Jr., 23, was recently Worcester Fire Department appointed to the Worcester as a master diver and mem- Fire Department, serves ber of the scuba /dive team in the Massachusetts Air and was a member of the National Guard as a senior Technical Rescue Task Force. airman, and completed a Firefighter Davies’ love of life tour of duty in Afghanistan was transparent and shaped in 2011. Airman First Class his fire service career as well. Michael L. Davies, 20, also serves He was always willing to mentor in the Massachusetts Air National a fellow firefighter and share his Guard. Jon’s youngest son, Adam J. knowledge and enthusiasm for the Davies, is 14. Jon’s love of family and job. His large frame, produced by his life is celebrated by those who knew him dedication to weightlifting, was perfectly well. His larger than life smile was equaled only suited to his demeanor. A bull of a man, Jon by his devotion to his family and friends. Jon was an was a tireless worker, especially at a fire scene, but his avid outdoorsman who enjoyed boating, fishing, hunt- compassion was even more outstanding and made him ing, and scuba diving, which he enthusiastically shared known as a “Big Teddy Bear” to his family and friends. Remembering Thomas J. “Todd” Lange Pittsfield Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: May 20, 2011 Age: 60

homas “Todd” Lange began his career in the T Pittsfield Fire Department on July 29, 1974, Todd was a simple man who took nothing for granted. after serving four years in the Marine Corps, He judged no one and lived each day to the including one year in Vietnam. He fullest. He was an avid golfer and a sports proudly served the city of Pittsfield fanatic, sharing all of this with his for 32 years. He was an exceptional father, brothers, and sons. He loved firefighter, proud to serve with his spending time with his family and brothers. traveling with his wife, Pam.

When HEP C took him off the He was a true friend, a fam- floor, and into the inspection ily man, a husband most bureau, he immersed him- envied and a wonderful son, self in children’s fire educa- brother, father, and grand- tion programs, the care of father. The loves and lights the elderly and the hoard- of his life were his grand- ing problem in the city. He daughters, Maren and befriended many of the Emmy. poor, bringing food and checking on them on his off He will always be forever in hours. our hearts. Remembering Warren J. Payne Boston Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: August 29, 2007 Age: 53

arren J. Payne died heroically on August 29, 2007, He was skilled and compassionate on medical calls, W from injuries sustained in a roof collapse comforting patients by holding their hands while fighting a fire in a West Roxbury and reassuring them. He was also a skilled restaurant. observer on the fire scene, taking in details and memorizing building lay- Born in 1954 in Boston, Payne grew outs to help ensure safety. up in Roxbury and Dorchester and spent time studying liberal He is survived by his sons, arts at Bunker Hill Community Johnathan, 16, and Jeremy, College. He went on to work 14; and his mother, Florence odd jobs in landscaping and Payne. His family included security before becoming a his fellow firefighters, with certified emergency medi- whom he shared food, cal technician. He became advice, support, and a firefighter in 1988 and laughter. was assigned to Ladder 25, where he served for 19 He was just a down-to- years. earth, nice, friendly guy. Remembering James Michael Rice Peabody Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: December 23, 2011 Age: 42

ames “Jim” Rice was born January 23, 1969, in very proud of his family. His schedule allowed him to J Saugus, Massachusetts. He grew up in attend his children’s school events and sport- Peabody, Massachusetts, with his par- ing events. He thoroughly enjoyed being ents, Brian and Elaine, and his brother, home with them after school working Michael. on homework and school projects

Jim attended Peabody Public Jim was a kid at heart. He could be Schools and graduated found throwing the ball around high school from St. John’s the yard with his kids or float- Preparatory School in Danvers ing around in the pool, on a Massachusetts, where he basketball court, softball field, played football and base- golf course, or even practic- ball, and made lifelong ing kicking field goals at friendships with fellow Emerson Park when he was classmates. He went on to not at the station. He was earn his undergraduate also a true New England degree in marketing from sports fan and a season ticket Bentley University. Jim holder to the New England enjoyed the business world Patriots. He only missed a but ultimately wanted to be game if he was working. a part of the brotherhood of the Peabody Fire Department. Because he was a kind, loving, funny person to be around, he Jim began dating his wife Amy had an amazing group of friends in July of 1993. They married two on and off the department. The years later on October 14, 1995. tragedy of his death has left a huge They celebrated 16 years of marriage in hole not only in our hearts, but also in 2011. They have three beautiful children, our community. His laugh is what many Alyssa, Katelyn and Ryan. Jim was a family man will remember. who had strong family values. It was so important to him to be an active father and to attend all sports events Jimmy was an outstanding son, brother, grandson, his children participated in when he was not at work. uncle, brother-in-law, son-in-law, and husband. Most of He routinely walked his kids to school after returning all, he could be called the best father to his three beauti- home from the station with doughnuts in hand. He was ful children. They called him Daddy-O. Remembering Chip A. Imker Cambridge Fire Department – Minnesota Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: May 24, 2011 Age: 35

hip Imker, age 35, died May 24, 2011, as a result Chip lived each day to its fullest. He was courageous, C of injuries sustained in a fall during a fire outgoing, and enjoyed skydiving and bungee department training in rope rescue. jumping, hunting, 4-wheeling, snowmo- biling, and driving mud trucks with Chip Andrew Imker was born the boys. June 21, 1975, in Springfield, Minnesota, to Richard and Chip’s family was very impor- Susan (Bendiske) Imker. The tant to him. He is survived by family moved to Cambridge, his loving spouse, Kristin, where Chip was raised and and their two sons, Hayden attended school. He gradu- and Connor; his father, ated from Cambridge- Richard (Judy) Imker; his Isanti High School in 1994. mother, Susan Rihs; two Chip was a stand-out high brothers, Chad (Rachel) school wrestler and contin- Imker and their daugh- ued his passion for wres- ter, Amelia; and Chuck tling as a volunteer coach. (Susan) Imker and their He served his country in son, Chase; grandfather, the Army National Guard Lester Imker; grand- and Reserves. mother Lori Steinlicht; and aunts, uncles, cousins, and Always ambitious, Chip many other relatives and built his own business, CAI friends. Construction/CAI Properties, through hard work and word of He was a wonderful person—a mouth advertising. Chip was a mem- beloved father, son, brother, partner, ber of the Cambridge Fire Department soldier, private business owner, fire- for 1½ years. He was a certified Firefighter fighter, and coach. He thoroughly enjoyed I and II as well as a trained first responder. serving his community. Remembering Jacob Anthony Carter Becker-Athens Volunteer Fire Department – Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 17, 2011 Age: 18

acob Anthony Carter was born June 13, 1992, in Christmas was the most memorable time of the year. You J Amory, the youngest son of Jerome and could not hide a present from Jacob. He always Myra Carter. Jacob, being a person who found them. He was always the first one was always eager to help anyone who under the tree on Christmas morning. asked, decided to join the Becker- He was the first one in line for the Athens Volunteer Fire and Rescue turkey and dressing. We all hoped in his community. He always and prayed he left enough for us. loved doing this for his fellow members of the community. Jacob loved playing with his On April 17, 2011, on his nieces and nephew, pulling way to a fire call, there was them around the yard in the a tragic accident, and Jacob big, red wagon, and jumping lost his life at the age of 18. on the trampoline with his nephew, Bradley, who was Jacob’s accomplishments his pride and joy. The look in life were being a great on his face the first time son, nephew, brother, he saw that baby boy was uncle, and brother-in-law. priceless. Jacob was such He loved being with fam- a proud uncle. He always ily. When he was with his called him his Brad Brad. He family he was always smiling always got so excited when and playing with this nieces Halloween came. He loved and nephew. carving the pumpkins and tak- ing Bradley trick-or-treating. Jacob was a very loving son. He is missed by his family and friends Jacob was a huge George Strait fan. deeply. Jacob told his mother each and Every time one of his songs came on the every day how much he loved her. We radio, Jacob would sing it word for word. miss that precious smile that he always had on his face and the big bear hugs he always gave. We love and miss you, Jacob. Remembering Charles E. Foster Barton Fire Department – Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 29, 2011 Age: 59

harles, known as Charlie to family and During his ten years of service, he served in C friends, passed away after suffering a various roles within the fire department, massive heart attack while on a call. He including captain, lieutenant, and a was doing the three things he enjoyed prominent member of the board in life when stricken. He was on a of directors. Since Charlie’s pass- call for Barton Volunteer Fire ing, numerous strangers have Department, during a storm, approached us and told us and also cutting up trees that about the kind things he had had a major road in Marshall done for them in their time County blocked. of crisis.

On Novem­ber 28, 1951, Charlie was a huge NASCAR Charlie was born in Gary, fan and memorabilia collec- Indiana, to Joy Foster and tor. He also participated as the late Devon Foster. a firefighter at the Memphis He moved to Memphis, Motorsports Park, where Tennessee in the early 1970s, he got to work events such where he made his home. In as the Busch Series and 1995, he met his wife, Shirley Craftsman Truck Series races. Davis Foster, and they were He was a huge Jeff Gordon fan. married in 1998. Charles had two stepchildren from a previ- Charlie is missed dearly by his ous marriage and two from his family, friends, and fire depart- marriage with Shirley. ment. He was the life of the party. He will never be forgotten, and we will Charlie became a volunteer firefighter continue to honor him with every day for Barton, Mississippi in the year 2000. that passes. Remembering Larry C. Gressett Sr. Toomsuba-Alamucha Fire & Rescue – Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 17, 2011 Age: 33

arry Cleveland Gressett Sr. was 33 years old when As a Christian, Larry was a member of Salem Baptist L God took him home to his heaven. He Church. He took his sons to church and Sunday was a volunteer firefighter at Toomsuba school every Sunday. Larry believed in Fire Department in Toomsuba, God, and now he is a very special angel Mississippi. Larry was also a mem- in God’s heaven. We all hope to see ber of L.E.M.A. him again there some day.

Larry loved being a firefighter, At the Toomsuba Fire Station, but he drowned trying to save Larry Jr. and Waylon were another man. He was a very honored with a plaque by the special person that always Military Order of the Purple tried to help other people. Heart. On October 11, 2011, My son died being a hero. Larry Gressett Sr. was added to the firefighters’ memo- Larry was a single father to rial in Pearl, Mississippi. two young sons, Larry Jr. and He will always be missed Waylon. He was the great- but never forgotten. est daddy they could ever have had, always playing and Memories and pictures are having good times. Larry’s a treasure to his family and younger brother, Kevin, lost friends. His crazy laugh and his best friend. We lost a son big smile are missed by a lot who is loved and missed every of people every day. Larry was day. But he will always be remem- a brave young man who loved bered as a fallen hero who lost his his family, country, and all fire life in the line of duty. and rescue members. He lost his life doing what he wanted to do, being a Larry was also a truck driver. He worked firefighter, way too young. He will remain for Webster Electric and loved driving an eigh- in our hearts forever. teen-wheeler. We always called him “Mr. Breeze” since he was always blowing down the road. Sometimes he On February 17, 2011, my son lost his life trying to save wore a black cowboy hat, and he always had a great big a stranger’s life. I am very proud to say Larry C. Gressett smile for everyone. Sr. is my son. Remembering Joshua Jay Wilkes Unity Fire Department – Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 13, 2011 Age: 26

oshua Jay Wilkes was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, department. He tried to make the calls and often helped J on May 24, 1984. He was 26 when he died out the other departments in the area. on February 13, 2011. He had responded to an afternoon outdoor fire and was Josh was married and had four chil- returning to his station with another dren—two sons and two daughters. firefighter. During a stop to refuel Joshua Terry is 10, Zachery is 6, the fire truck, Josh collapsed and Chloe is 5, and Isabella is 3. He died. was a great and wonderful dad.

Josh was a volunteer fire- Josh loved sports, playing fighter with the Unity drums, and family time. He Fellowship Fire Department worked his adult years in in Saltillo, Mississippi, furniture manufacturing for about five years. He and carpentry. was very active in the fire Remembering Henry “Jay” Branscum Northeast R-IV Rural Fire Association – Missouri Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 3, 2011 Age: 32

enry “Jay” Branscum, 32 years old, firefighter, Jay was a registered accredited nursing assistant and Hson, husband and father. Jay, Jay Henry, loved the work. He loved putting smiles on the JayJay could never sit still. As soon as we faces of the people he cared for. When I met settled in our home in Cairo, Missouri, Jay, he had already been involved in his in July 2011, he contacted the community in La Harpe, Kansas, as a fire chief of the Northeast R-IV volunteer firefighter. He wanted to Volunteer Fire Department. Jay help his community. Even though was told as soon as he attended he worked as an assistant man- six meetings, he could pro- ager at a convenience store, he ceed through training. Jay helped people. If you came went to work and arranged in in a bad mood, he took it to be off work by 6 PM every upon himself to put you in a Tuesday so that he could better mood before you left. attend those six meetings and get to training. Once Jay was the type of person they gave him a pager, he that if you needed help and kept testing it and testing he could, he would. He lit up it to make sure it worked. a room with his smile and He was excited and wanted his jokes. He loved to laugh, to help. and it was infectious. Once, we were catfishing at a friend’s Jay never met a stranger no house, and the water was low. matter where he was, whether Jay’s bell rang, and the fight was at the grocery store or a rest on, or so he thought. When he got area along the highway. One time it to the bank, it was a 4-inch baby on the way home from his parents’ catfish that had gone through brush. house in southeast Kansas, there was He was a wonderful sport and even a couple on a motorcycle stranded. Jay posed for pictures with his “killer” catfish. insisted we pull over. We were maybe an hour away from his parents’ house, and it was a hot summer Jay will be missed by many. He will always be with us. day. We stayed until they were able to contact a tow Jay is MY hero! Rest in peace and thank you, Henry truck and it arrived. “Jay” Branscum. Remembering Leslie L. Clark Dixon Rural Fire Protection District – Missouri Volunteer Captain Date of Death: January 20, 2011 Age: 80

he Dixon Volunteer Fire Department lost a beloved pay their bills. He was a member of the Camp Ground T member, Leslie Clark, on January 20, Christian Church and served on several com- 2011, leaving his colleagues saddened, munity boards and committees. yet blessed to have worked alongside him. Leslie was a member of the He enjoyed traveling, bowling, fish- Dixon Volunteer Fire Department ing, reading westerns, playing for over 20 years and at the time cards, and being with his fam- of his death had achieved the ily. He never met a stranger. He rank of captain. He had a always said hello whether he positive influence on young knew you or not. firefighters and served as a mentor to many. He was He was married to his wife, looked upon as a leader Lydia, for over 56 years. by his colleagues. He was Lydia died unexpectedly instrumental in building two weeks after Leslie. a branch firehouse in his Leslie and Lydia raised four hometown of Brinktown, children, Randy, David, Missouri, and recruiting Tina and Michael. They had volunteer firemen to serve eight grandchildren and the rural community. seven great-grandchildren.

Leslie was the owner and Leslie died while driving a fire operator of Clark’s TV Sales & truck to a structure fire. All of his Services, as well as a farmer. It life Leslie firmly believed in help- was not unusual for him to pro- ing others. He was a kind and hum- vide free services, not only to local ble man. He is remembered as a great churches and other organizations, but to and loving father and a man who never individuals who he knew were struggling to hesitated to give of himself to help others. Remembering Richard E. Paul Kansas City Fire Department – Missouri Career Firefighter Date of Death: January 7, 2011 Age: 54

AO Richard E. Paul began his career in November jokes on his fellow firefighters. To sit and listen to F 1977 with the Kansas City Fire Department. his stories was one of the true joys of my He spent 25 years of his time in the down- life. At the same time, he had great town area of Kansas City before going respect for all his brothers and sis- out to the more quiet suburbs of the ters he worked with. city to spend his last seven years. He was a member of Local 42. He loved traveling, especially on our motorcycle. He proudly rode He was at both major events the fireman edition offered by of Kansas City’s history, the Harley-Davidson after 9/11. Coates House Fire and the skywalk collapse at the I am extremely proud to say Hyatt Regency. Richard that my husband passed was extremely passion- doing exactly what he lived ate about his job; it was each day of his life for. To his true love in life. There have his name added to the wasn’t too much at all that memorial is not a sad day, could stop him from going but an honor for his family. to work, including illness. Richard is survived by his He was a wonderful hus- wife, Paula, and by his chil- band, best friend and father. dren, Kenneth, Christina, Ric, He was a master at practical Molli, Samantha, and TJ. Remembering Remy H. Pochelon USDA Forest Service – Montana Career Fire Safety Officer Date of Death: September 30, 2009 Age: 64

emy Hathaway Pochelon died September 30, Rockies Type 2 incident management team after his R 2009, after working with fire suppression crews retirement. He was one of the longest-serving safety on the Table Mountain Fire. Born July 4, officers for the USFS and had just completed 1945, in Geneva, Switzerland, he spent an assignment on the Table Mountain his childhood in George’s Mills, New fire southwest of Philipsburg. Indeed, Hampshire and graduated from Remy was around for so long that Mount Hermon High School in his coworkers eventually gave him Northfield, Massachusetts. In a symbolic stuffed dinosaur that 1965, Remy enlisted in the was a permanent fixture on U.S. Air Force and was sta- the dashboard of his pickup. tioned at Reese Air Base in His knowledge and experi- Lubbock, Texas. A veteran ence with forest policy and of the Vietnam War, he was recreational issues contin- honorably discharged in ued to serve him well in August 1972. retirement. Remy worked as a part-time consultant Following his military ser- on forest planning issues vice, Remy headed west throughout the west for and began his 36-year Ecosystem Research Group career with the Forest in Missoula. Service. He started as a sea- sonal employee in 1973 while Remy thoroughly enjoyed attending the University of himself in retirement. He was Idaho. After graduating with an avid outdoorsman and loved a degree in forest resources, he hunting, fishing and skiing, espe- started working as a firefighter for cially skiing with his granddaugh- the St. Joe Interagency Hot Shot crew ters. He was a member of the National based out of Clarkia, Idaho. Ski Patrol at Silver Mountain, Idaho, and at Lost Trail and Discovery Basin in In 1976, Remy accepted a permanent position Montana. He was a member of the Society of with the U.S. Forest Service in Wallace, Idaho. His work American Foresters and the Philipsburg Volunteer Fire later took him to Clarkia, Idaho, the Philipsburg Ranger Department. One of Remy’s simplest pleasures was fir- District, and eventually to the Flathead Valley, where he ing up the barbeque on a summer evening for a gather- worked for the Swan Ranger District as a resource assis- ing of friends and family, enjoying their company, and tant until retiring in 2004. Remy was especially proud treating them to the awesome views of the Flint Creek of his role in the development, permitting, and eventual Valley from his deck. establishment of the Blacktail Ski Area on the Flathead National Forest near Lakeside. He is survived by his wife, Mary McDonald; his daughter and son-in-law, Michele and Todd Seiger, and their chil- Throughout his career, Remy was active in the fire pro- dren, Abby and Caitlyn; his sister, Gabby; his brother, gram and continued to be a member of a Northern Allen; and numerous nieces and nephews. Remembering Harold F. Frey Sandown Fire and Rescue Department – New Hampshire Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: January 16, 2011 Age: 46

arold F. Frey, 46, of Sandown, New Hampshire, firefighter with the Sandown Fire Department. He had H died January 16, 2011, after participat- volunteered previously with the Epping Fire ing in ice rescue training with the Sandown Department. He loved anything to do with Fire and Rescue Department. firefighting and paramedics. Harold enjoyed motorcycling and was an He was born in Edmonds, active member of the Red Knights Washington, on November 7, Motorcycle Club. He enjoyed 1964, a son of Malcolm Frey playing computer games and and Virginia (Gillard) Clark. was a Civil War enthusiast. Harold was a resident of Sandown for two years He is survived by his and had formerly lived in mother, Virginia Clark Epping, New Hampshire. of Elwood, Illinois; three He was a United States daughters, Marlena Frey of Marine Corps veteran and Mississippi, Lauren Bundy served during the Gulf War of Louisiana, and Tabitha in Beirut. Frey of Sandown; five grandchildren; and two sis- Harold was employed as ters, Lori Hunter of Baxter, a paramedic for Care Plus, Tennessee, and Kari Frey of and was also a volunteer Joliet, Illinois. Remembering Andrew K. Boyt City of Cape May Fire Department – New Jersey Career Lieutenant Date of Death: October 3, 2011 Age: 45

ndy’s firefighting career began in Rescue Team, and the deputy emergency A 1991 when he entered the Cape management coordinator for the City of May Volunteer Fire Department. He Cape May. Andy was awarded several became a career firefighter/EMT commendations during his career. for Cape May City in 1999 and He was a member of Local 3495. rose to the rank of lieutenant in 2006. Andy enjoyed all that life offered, more specifically, Throughout his firefight- time at the beach, surfing, ing career, Andy held many volleyball, cooking, carv- positions, which include ing decoys, and collecting being a rescue special- antique bottles. Andy espe- ist on the New Jersey cially cherished priceless Task Force 1, a founding moments with his wife, member of the Cape May Michelle; family; friends; County Urban Search and and yellow lab, Cali. Remembering Thomas M. Shields Flanders Fire Company No. 1 – New Jersey Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: May 31, 2011 Age: 42

om found his true calling when, at age 18, he two years, he would make you feel special.” He was the T joined the fire service family by becom- kind of person who brought you in under his ing a member of the West Paterson (now wing. Within a matter of minutes, you felt known as Woodland Park) Volunteer like you could go out and have dinner Fire Department. He later became with him. He was that friendly kind fire marshal for the township. of guy, so caring for other people Upon moving to the Flanders, that he made you feel special. New Jersey, area, Tom joined the Flanders Fire Department Above all, Tom was a lov- as a volunteer member. He ing and dedicated father to later rose to lieutenant and his two sons, Gregory and then to assistant chief. Brandon, and husband to his wife, Nicole. Tom actively Tom spent his entire fire took part in his sons activi- service career as a volun- ties, as they played football teer, dedicated to helping and baseball. Tom could those in need in the com- be seen wearing his red munities where he lived. He and white Devils jersey at was “a fireman’s firefighter,” many a home game. Tom often taking the time to edu- was active in the scouting cate those in the fire service program with his sons, taking about firefighting techniques, trips and helping to support but also why to apply them and his community. When Tom was how to make the techniques bet- not at the fire house, he could ter. Tom owned his own company, often be found at the local Dunkin’ Security Designs Concepts and Donuts having a cup (or two) of cof- Controls, which specialized in alarm fee. Tom enjoyed spending time with systems for property protection, but it was his friends at a BBQ in his backyard, often the fire service that was his passion. Tom was followed by a dip in the hot tub. often seen at the fire house, having a good time by play- ing practical jokes on his fellow members. He was often Tom passed away suddenly, after responding to a call heard saying, “If I had two, I’d be a king.” involving a small child needing assistance. His pass- ing has deeply impacted those whom he touched. Tom was regarded as a friend to everyone he met. People Those who knew Tom feel a deep void, but also feel were drawn to him. It was said in his eulogy, “It didn’t lucky and blessed to have had a person like Tom in matter if Tom knew you for two weeks, two months or their lives.

Remembering Jonathan C. W. Young Roselle Fire Department – New Jersey Career Captain Date of Death: November 16, 2011 Age: 49

onathan Cardell William Young was born for a life- his love for the community, the Borough of Roselle, the J time of service. He began the journey Roselle Chamber of Commerce, Agape House November 28, 1961, in Newark, New Jersey, of Worship, and the Young family are hold- son of Ruth Griffin Young and Howard ing the Annual Jon Young Memorial 5K. Curtis Young. In 1979, he graduated from Abraham Clark High School Jonathan was a certified HAZMAT in Roselle and from Linden specialist and communications Vocational Technical School specialist with the New Jersey where he studied electronics. Urban Search and Rescue Team NJ-TFI. NJ-TFI was the At age 15, Jon started his first rescue team at Ground career in emergency services Zero on September 11, 2001, with the Roselle Volunteer and remained there for ten Ambulance Corps. In 1979, straight days. Following that he became a volunteer fire- assignment, he worked with fighter for the Roselle Fire the University of Medicine Department, and in 1990, and Dentistry of New Jersey he achieved his life goal to in a mental health support become a career firefighter program for first responders. for the department. In 2001, he was promoted to lieutenant; Jon was the communications he later earned the rank of cap- officer for the NJ Task Force and tain. He was a certified Level 2 president of the NJ Emergency Fire Department Training Officer, Preparedness Association. He was training firefighters at the Roselle a certified instructor for confined Fire Department and at the Union space rescue, high angle rope rescue, County Fire Academy. He served as an HAZMAT, automobile extrication, CPR, EMT for over 23 years and as coordinator of weapons of mass destruction, blood borne the Office of Emergency Management in Roselle. pathogens, incident command systems, and emergency vehicle driving. Jon was Roselle’s most highly decorated firefighter. In addition to being awarded Fire Fighter of the Year three In his off time “Juice,” as he was affectionately known, times, he received Valor Awards from the New Jersey enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was a Fireman’s Mutual Benevolent Association and the St. licensed Ham Radio Operator and was in the process of Barnabas Hospital Burn Foundation, and the Community obtaining a pilot’s license. He loved all animals, especially Service Award from the Roselle NAACP. A highlight of Kieko and Kayla, his beloved Labradors. his career was the delivery of thirteen babies. In 1997, while off duty, Jon rescued a civilian trapped in a burning Jonathan C. W. Young departed this life in the line of car, for which he received a Valor Award from the City of duty on November 16, 2011, just shy of his 50th birthday. Woodbridge. In his memory, and in an effort to preserve “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Remembering Jarrett T. Eleam Big Tree Volunteer Fire Company – New York Volunteer Lieutenant Date of Death: January 12, 2011 Age: 26

arrett Eleam died January 12, 2011, as a result of a where he graduated in 2007 with a degree in business J stroke suffered during SCBA training at administration. At Duquesne, Jarrett was pres- the firehouse two days earlier. ident of Delta Sigma Pi, a campus business fraternity, and was very active on the Jarrett joined the Big Tree Volunteer national level, organizing trips for Fire Company in 2009 and gradu- students to go to national con- ated from Firefighter 1 Boot ventions. He was an avid vol- Camp in July 2010. He com- unteer, working with homeless pleted the necessary training people and campus multicul- to become a firefighter in tural events. He moved to record time and was signed the Buffalo, New York, area up to begin EMT training after graduation, where he at the time of his death. He worked for Target before was dedicated to continued joining the fire department. training and improving his skills as a firefighter, consis- Jarrett is survived by his par- tently ranking among the ents, Terrell and Jacqueline top ten responders in the Eleam of Millvale, department each month. Pennsylvania. The second At the installation of offi- youngest of twelve brothers cers held just days before his and sisters, Jarrett is survived death, Jarrett was honored as by nine siblings, Adrian Locke, one of the top responders of the Darneice Bivins, Lillian Cannon, company, coming in fourth with Dionnea Watkins; Terrell, Sharell, more than 400 calls. He was also Jacquelin and Termane Eleam; and installed as lieutenant of fire preven- Gloria Wicks. He was predeceased tion and was described as an-up-and- by his brother and sister, Norman and coming member of the company. He loved Lavenia Williams. being a part of the fire department and partic- ularly enjoyed visiting area schools to teach students fire Jarrett signed up to be an organ donor the day he got his prevention. He was the first firefighter to die in the line license and was able to help others through organ dona- of duty in the department’s 74-year history. tion. This was not a surprise to those who knew him and his dedication to helping others and working for the A Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, native, Jarrett was a gradu- greater good. Friends and family remember him as easy ate of Oliver High School and Duquesne University, to like, helpful, positive, and hardworking. Remembering Michael Paul Esposito Baldwin Fire Department – New York Volunteer Ex-Captain Date of Death: May 18, 2011 Age: 43

ichael Paul Esposito was born to Gerard Esposito Year-round he was involved with fire department activi- M Sr. and the late Linda Esposito on ties. In the autumn, winter, and spring, Michael 1 April 1968. Michael spent his early years could be found most Friday nights bowling in his hometown of Oceanside, New with his company’s team, The Foxes, at York, on Long Island and his teenage the local bowling alley. In late spring, years in Salinas, California, before softball season would begin, and he his family returned to the neigh- enjoyed playing for the depart- boring village of his hometown, ment team in games with other Baldwin, New York, when he fire departments from within was a young adult. the county. It was the summer that Michael seemed to enjoy In 1990, Michael followed the most, being a member of in the path of his younger the Tomcats Drill Team and brother, Todd, and became competing in racing tour- a member and volunteer of naments throughout Long Hook & Ladder Company Island and New York State. #1 in the Baldwin Fire Department. Michael found Michael is survived by his his calling in life and spent father, Gerard Esposito Sr.; over twenty years selflessly brother, Gerard Esposito Jr., protecting and serving his and wife, Susan Esposito; sis- community. In 1996, he rose ter, Donna Esposito; brother, to the rank of captain within his Ex-Chief Todd A. Esposito company. In 1998, Michael trans- and husband, Brian C. Cinetti; ferred within the department to sister, Dawn Esposito; longtime Hose Company #1. In this company companion, Roberta Jaeger; and his he again was elected to the rank of cap- nephews, Gerard Esposito III, Joseph tain two more times. Esposito, and Jordan Esposito. Remembering Thomas V. Regan Garden City Park Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 17, 2011 Age: 82

homas Regan died on February 17, 2011, as a He was a Korean War veteran. Family and friends T result of injuries sustained in a fall while remembered him as a jokester and a great responding to an alarm call three weeks story teller who was always making people earlier. He was a volunteer firefighter laugh. He led a simple life and enjoyed with the Garden City Park Fire life’s simple pleasures. He was a very Department’s Hillside Heights active grandfather who attended Engine Company for 34 years, every event his 11 grandchildren where he was in charge of participated in. safety training and tactics. He is survived by his wife of He retired as a deputy chief over 50 years, Elsie Regan; after a 38-year career with sons, Thomas and Timothy; the Fire Department of New daughter, Christine; and York. His son, Timothy, grandchildren, Timothy, also retired after a career as Carolyn, Ryan, Nicole, an FDNY firefighter. Thomas, Robert, Brian, Matthew, Laura, Brooke, Tom Regan stayed in top and Kristen. physical condition, typi- cally running six to eight His life’s passion was to help miles daily and working out others. He had a generous, for two hours each day at the caring heart that put the needs fire house. of others above his own life. Remembering Kevin E. Townes Sr. Mount Vernon Fire Department – New York Career Firefighter Date of Death: December 8, 2011 Age: 54

evin Edward Townes Sr. looked toward a city with his family relocated to Dutchess County. Kevin joined K eternal foundations, a city designed and Beulah Baptist Church, under the leadership of built by God, and he departed this life in Rev. Jesse V. Bottoms Jr., where he studied honor and bravery doing as God pur- and discovered his God-given purpose. posed for him from the beginning of He was a member of the Fine Gold time on December 8, 2011. Men’s Ministry and Leadership Ministry of 40-Days of Purpose Kevin was born March 30, Christian Education. He loved 1957, to Sylvia Isabelle Townes God, family, and the Gospel. in White Plains. In addition to the love and care of his Kevin loved people. He never mother, Kevin experienced met a stranger, because he the rich and affectionate would always make friends meaning of “a village to raise with everyone he’d come a child,” with loving instruc- in contact with. He would tion and support from his make you love him. An great-grandmother, Idell avid sports enthusiast, “Mother” Johnson; grand- he coached for Town of mother, Louise “Granny” LaGrange Softball/Baseball Townes; aunts Virginia League, Town of LaGrange Cooke and Louise “Chippy” Girls’ Basketball League, and Johnson; and uncle Leonard Pop Warner – Hudson Valley Townes. Their influence helped Knights Football. He had a heart to cultivate Kevin’s life and values. and passion for children, as they did for him. All he wanted was for Kevin was educated by White Plains them to learn proper skills and fun- City School District. He served in the damentals, do their best, be their best, United States Marine Corps, receiving an and have fun. Also, a win would be nice. He honorable discharge in 1980. He was employed was often thought of as “The Gentle Giant” or by General Motors before joining the City of Mount “The Big Teddy Bear.” Vernon Fire Department in September 1986. He faith- fully served the City of Mount Vernon doing what he He leaves to mourn and cherish a host of great mem- loved and respected until his final call to duty on his ories, his wife, Patricia Way-Townes; son Kevin Jr; heavenly departure. daughters Jazmin, Blair, Rebecca, and LaToya; mother, Sylvia I. Townes; in-laws Rev. C.J. Way and wife Emma; Kevin began his Christian walk as a practicing Catholic, brother-in-law Charles (Renee) Way; and many rela- serving as an altar boy in his younger years. In 1995, Kevin tives, friends and colleagues. met Patricia A. Way, and they were married on June 28, 1997. In 1997, he joined Calvary Baptist Church, where He will be greatly missed. He touched so many in such a he was baptized and served as an usher. In 2004, he and magnificent and extraordinary way. Remembering Richard Leo Barbour Wilson’s Mills Fire/Rescue – North Carolina Volunteer Chief Date of Death: February 4, 2011 Age: 55

hief Richard Leo “Ricky” Barbour began his fire added a second station during his tenure in 2003. C service career in 1969, the year that Ricky is survived by his wife, Diane; three Wilson’s Mills Fire Department began daughters, Valerie, Amy, and Holly; and the process of becoming chartered by two sons, Ryan and Chad. He was also the State of North Carolina. Ricky a grandfather to seven wonderful was a charter member, and the grandchildren. department began answering calls in 1973. Ricky’s third love, after fam- ily and the fire service, was Ricky held many ranks in deer hunting. He spent many the department. He became hours looking for “the big chief in 1996 and remained one,” and he found several in that position until his over his years of hunting. death in 2011. During his time as chief, Ricky Ricky was also the Safety also served as president and Health Director for the of the Johnston County North Carolina Department of Firemen’s Association Health and Human Services, a and the Johnston County career that carried him over the Chiefs’ Association. entire state of North Carolina.

Ricky had a sincere love for Ricky was a member of the his community and the peo- Wilson’s Mills Baptist Church. ple living here. He was quick to help out in any way he could. The only stranger Ricky ever found Ricky brought many positive ideas was someone he hadn’t had a chance to the department. The department to talk to yet. Remembering Jeffrey S. Bowen Asheville Fire Department – North Carolina Career Captain Date of Death: July 28, 2011 Age: 37

ur world was blessed on August 11, 1973, when tions to the fire service were many, and they continue O Jeff was born in San Bernardino County, to be blessings today. California. Jeff’s interest in serving oth- ers began early in his life, and he Jeff loved the outdoors. He was an avid entered the fire service at the age hunter and loved anything related of 16. He began his career with to the water. Jeff spent much of the U.S. Department of Forestry his free time with his family in and then came to the Asheville water recreational activities, Fire Department in 1998. Jeff and this carried over to his brought his mother, Laurel, passion for water rescue in to Asheville, and it was also the fire service. Jeff and his here that he met and mar- closest friends in the fire ried his wife, Stacy. service spent many days in the woods on numerous Jeff was a superstar in the hunting trips, a bond that Asheville Fire Department. showed daily on the job. He was instrumental in many department initia- Jeff had a smile and an atti- tives including company tude that made everyone officer development, pro- around him feel positive motional process improve- about everything. He was a ment, and youth development can do fire officer that everyone programs. wanted to work with.

Jeff completed his bachelor’s Jeff is survived by his mother, degree in fire safety and man- Laurel; his wife, Stacy; and their agement from Fayetteville State children, Robin, Sarah, and CJ. University and had enrolled in the first offering of the Asheville Fire Department’s He is sincerely missed by all whose lives he touched. Chief Officer Development Program. Jeff’s contribu- We are so blessed to receive the many gifts he gave us. Remembering George Wendell Fisher III Sandy Bottom Volunteer Fire and Rescue – North Carolina Volunteer Captain Date of Death: September 22, 2011 Age: 57

eorge, 57, died on September 22, 2011, from a foot state of the art facility for the fire department. It was G pulmonary embolism suffered after dedicated and open for business a few weeks responding to a reported structure fire after his death. followed by an EMS call the day before. He joined Sandy Bottom Volunteer George and Sandy were married on Fire and Rescue in 1988. Over the August 25, 1973. George owned course of the next 23 years, he and operated Auto and Muffler served as chief, assistant chief Center in Kinston, North and, for the last several years Carolina, for 20 years, work- prior to his death, president ing in that industry for 35 of the board of directors. He years. His friends and cus- attained the rank of captain tomers dubbed him “One and was a certified EMT More Muffler George,” since and a first responder for he was always willing to EMS calls. East Care, our stay late to put on one more regional helicopter rescue muffler when asked. department, knew they were in good hands when His daughters, Jennifer, they found out that George born in 1977, and Lindsay, was in charge of creating the born in 1984, were every- landing zone for them when thing he could have asked for called on to fly accident vic- in children. He loved his girls tims to area hospitals. more than life itself. He was so proud of each of them and the George was a mentor to all of the successful young women they both young men and women who showed have become. Jennifer is a first grade an interest in joining the fire depart- teacher in our public school system, and ment. He was training instructor for the Lindsay is a pharmacist with CVS. Jennifer junior firemen and enjoyed spending time married Daniel in 1999, and Lindsay married with all of the young people at the department. He was Brendan in 2009. Jennifer and Daniel have given us two the “patriarch,” looked up to by his peers and counted precious grandchildren, Ethan and Anna George. Being on to provide wisdom and insight into all situations “Papa” to Ethan and Anna George was the “job” he cher- when asked. Several times over his career he was voted ished most. Fire Fighter of the Year and Officer of the Year by his fel- low firemen. Probably the accomplishment he was most We mourn his passing every day but are determined to proud of at Sandy Bottom was overseeing the applica- keep his memory alive for them. We love and miss you tion process and construction of a new 15,000 square every day, Honey, Daddy, Papa. Remembering David S. Howell Roseboro Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: May 22, 2011 Age: 54

avid Samuel “Sammy” Howell suffered a fatal He was a farmer and a member of the Roseboro D heart attack at home on Sunday, May 22, Volunteer Fire Department. 2011, after responding to assist at the scene of a motor vehicle accident. He is survived by his mother, Audrey Honeycutt Howell, of Roseboro. Mr. Howell was born in Sampson County on November 26, 1956, Sammy was remembered as a and was preceded in death kind person who was always by his father, David Greene there to help his friends and Howell. neighbors. Remembering David J. Hunsinger Jr. Tar Heel Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 7, 2011 Age: 23

avid J. Hunsinger Jr., 23, died in a motor vehicle Controls in Elizabethtown, North Carolina. D accident while responding to the fire department for a call. He served with the David is survived by his wife, Savannah Tar Heel Volunteer Fire Department Caitlyn Hunsinger; two daughters, for six years. He and his brothers Hailee and Riley; his father and followed in the footsteps of their stepmother, David and Renee father, Tar Heel Fire Chief David Hunsinger Sr.; his brothers, Hunsinger Sr. Shawn, Chris, and John; his sister, Dana; and his pater- David was a dedicated young nal grandparents, David and man who loved serving his Sandra Hunsinger. community and was work- ing towards a career as a His interests were simple paid full-time firefighter. and included firefighting and hunting. If he wasn’t He worked as a pipefitter doing one, it was the other. for Danaher Sensors and Remembering Johnny L. Norton Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: November 24, 2011 Age: 56

ohnny was born November 13, 1955. He served as 1997, 1999-2001, 2005-2007, and was elected again in J a volunteer firefighter and first responder November 2011. He served as mayor from for the town of Hot Springs since the age 2007-2009. of 16. He held the rank of chief for 12 years from 1988-2000. He joined the Johnny was married to Abigail North Carolina Forest Service in Norton for 33 years. They have 2006 as an on-call wildland fire- two sons, Jonathan Eric and fighter, serving the last three Joshua Adam, whom he dearly years as a crew leader. loved. Johnny always wanted a daughter. When Josh mar- Johnny loved serving his ried Ashely, Johnny had his community. Whether it daughter. He loved her as was moving a booth in the though she were his own. diner to retrieve a child’s Johnny has one grandson, quarter, stopping a child Carter. Carter’s name for from choking, shoveling Johnny is Dadaw. Johnny snow from an elderly per- loved Carter and loved being son’s sidewalk, shooting called Dadaw. He would fireworks, performing CPR, take Carter to work with or driving the ambulance, him, take him to the river he was always there to help. to throw rocks, or just stay Johnny served as alderman on home and play with him. They the town council from 1995- were “bestest buddies.” Remembering Charolette R. Adair Richfield Township Fire Department – Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: October 28, 2011 Age: 45

harolette Rae “Charlie” Adair, 45, of Richfield children and was a mother to many. Her home was C Township, Ohio, died on October 28, always an open armed welcoming. She is sur- 2011, while assisting at the scene of a motor vived by her husband, Craig; daughters, vehicle accident. She loved helping oth- Cayla and Hailey, mother, Christina ers. She was born in Lancaster, Ohio, Collins Nutter; sisters, Rosemary to Christina and John Collins. (Fred) McCandlish, Sandy (Randy) Slack, Patty (Lowel) Nutter, Charlie was a passionate vol- Chrystal Householder, and unteer with the Richfield Chris Reichley; brother, Mike Township Fire Department, (Karen) Collins; mother and where she received numer- father-in-law, Orville and ous awards for all of her Ruth Adair; grandmother, dedication, including Vol­ Luella Langenderfer; sis- unteer of the Year. ters-in-law, Debbie (Bill) Artino, Luann Adair and She was a devoted and Joe Steinbrecher; and popular sixth grade teacher numerous aunts, uncles, at Holy Trinity School nieces, and nephews. for seven years. She cared deeply for the students she Charlie is remembered for worked with. She was also a her smile and sunny outlook CYO coach of volleyball, and and for her willingness to track. She loved being around always help others. Remembering Gregory S. Baker Lewisville Community Volunteer Fire Department – Ohio Volunteer Chief Date of Death: November 20, 2011 Age: 52

reg was born in Barnesville Hospital on March 23, As chief of the Lewisville Fire Department, Greg lost his G 1959, the son of John and Lois Baker of life responding to a barn fire on November 20, Lewisville, Ohio. He attended Lewisville 2011. He suffered a heart attack and later Elementary School and was a gradu- died with his family by his side. Greg ate of Skyvue High School and Swiss Baker left his impressive mark on Hills Vocational School. He mar- everyone he ever touched. He ried his loving wife, Chris, on will be remembered as a high- October 11, 1980. They were spirited individual who con- blessed to be together for 31 tributed without limit to the years. They are the extremely world around him. His con- proud parents of one daugh- cern for improving the qual- ter, Nikki Von Baker Lude, ity of life was truly evident. born March 28, 1983, and His absence to our family, her husband, Jeremy, who friends, and community were married June 11, will be forever felt. 2011. Greg was the brother of Steve Baker and Rhonda He was my loving husband (Kevin) Marshall. He is also and Nikki’s devoted father, a survived by nieces, Cody man who will forever live in (Josh) Booher and Casey our hearts. His legacy of care Marshall; nephews, Chad and commitment will never Baker, Scott Marshall, and be forgotten. The world is a Carson Piatt; great-nephew richer place for having him in it, Brayden Baker; mother-in-law, and he will forever be missed. As Carolyn Kindle; brother-in-law, his wife and mother of his child, I David Piatt; and Duane and Trish mourn his absence, and I will forever Piatt. He had three loving dogs, Lexie, feel blessed to have had him as my part- Maggie, and Layla. ner. Not a day goes by that I do not ask why God took him so young. He had so much to live Greg was president of Baker & Sons Equipment for. Why him? Why us? I did not truly understand until Company and Fire Chief 701 of the Lewisville Volunteer in my dreams God told me it was his time, I needed him, Fire Department, a member of the Monroe County and I did not let him suffer. He went out of this world Firefighters’ Association, board member for the Paul with all his glory and exactly how he wanted it. Although Bunyan Show, Monroe County CIC, Stafford Masonic he knew that you and Nikki would be profoundly hurt by Lodge, Woodsfield Moose, Woodsfield Eagles, Monroe this, he knew he had instilled the right confidence in you County Water Board, and Lewisville Community Center. both that you will forever make him proud.

We will for all eternity love, honor, and respect Chief 701. Remembering Randy D. Boley Clinton Township Fire Department – Ohio Volunteer Captain Date of Death: April 12, 2011 Age: 51

edicated. That is just one of the many words used Randy spent much of his time serving his community Dby those who knew him best to describe as a self-employed carpenter. He loved the the life of Randy Boley. Randy was dedi- Village of Shreve, where he resided with cated to so many things in his life, his loving wife, Linda, and three now whether it was his loving family or grown children, Megan, Randall, the community he served. and Victoria. In his spare time, he loved being outdoors, especially Randy was very active in all hunting, fishing, and camp- aspects of the fire depart- ing with his family. Randy ment, whether he was was a firm believer in the responding to a fire call or 2nd Amendment and was attending numerous meet- an active member of the ings and training sessions. NRA and a certified con- At the mere age of 21, cealed carry instructor. But Randy joined the Clinton most of all, Randy loved Township Volunteer Fire helping others and always Department, where he seemed to put others before served for 29 years, holding himself. various positions includ- ing chief, assistant chief, On April 11, 2011, less than and captain for the major- 24 hours prior to Randy’s ity of that time. He also held passing, his day started like a position as a Wayne County any other day. While working fire inspector, as well as a mem- in his workshop, Randy heard ber of the Wayne County Fire the call come across his pager for Investigation Unit. a squad run. Randy would often help out his fellow colleagues, assist- Randy felt one was never too young or ing them on emergency calls by driving old to learn. He always looked forward to Fire the ambulance. That day Randy assisted on two Prevention Week, where he took pride in teaching the calls that were back-to-back, though he had been feeling youth of the community about fire safety. He also volun- under the weather himself. After a day of selfless acts, he teered his time as a 4-H advisor for the Wayne County returned home to relax with his wife and son. It wasn’t Shooting Sports Club. The smiles he received from the until early the next morning that his family found he children learning about what he was most passionate had made his final call. With his passing, there will be about were all the thanks he needed. forever a hole in the heart of Shreve. Remembering James M. Hall Greentown Volunteer Fire Department – Ohio Volunteer Firefighter/EMT Date of Death: May 30, 2009 Age: 40

or James “Marty” Hall, the fire station Aside from work, Marty had three beauti- F was not just a workplace; it was his ful daughters he adored—Ashley, Arika, second home. Besides his family, fire- and Chloe. He carried three pennies fighting was what he loved. He was in his firefighting gear, one to rep- so proud of the fact that he was a resent each of his daughters. His captain on the fire department. favorite thing to do with his Marty served 15 years on the daughters was to play sports. Canton Fire Department, He always pushed them to be where he was a career captain the best they could be, and and a paramedic, and also it shows by how successful served one year part-time they have become. Marty on the Green Township was a devoted son to his Fire Department. parents, Jim and Sue. He called his dad every day to Marty was very com- get advice on how to pre- passionate for what he pare his girls for the next did. In 2003, he received sporting event. Firefighter of the Year after going into a burning house On the day Marty passed because there was a child away, he was playing in a inside. He carried out a small benefit basketball game for a four-year-old boy who was not police officer that was shot and breathing. Marty and his crew killed in the line of duty. He was began CPR and mouth to mouth to so devoted to the community and revive the child. It did not end there. impacted so many people. He will Marty celebrated Austin’s birthday with always be remembered as the coura- him every year. Marty was a true hero. geous, loving man he was. Remembering Robert J. Tieche Sr. Cardinal Joint Fire District – Ohio Career Chief Date of Death: May 28, 2011 Age: 63

obert John Tieche Sr. was born May 4, 1948, in CJFD becoming the first paid department in R in Youngstown, Ohio, to Howard and Mahoning County to provide paramedic ser- Irene Belott Tieche. He graduated from vices 24 hours a day. Due to his diligence, Canfield High School and attended the department was honored in 2006 Youngstown State University and with a national award for having Kent State University. In 1969, AEDs in many public buildings. Bob joined his parents to work Bob was a fire inspector, fire at the family bakery, Tieche instructor, and past president Pie. Bob met his wife Deby at of the NEOEMS council. His the bakery, and the two con- pride and dedication as a fire tinued the family business chief shined until the day he until its closing in 1982. passed away. Bob responded to a call the night before his In 1971, Bob became a vol- passing, even though he unteer firefighter with the was feeling ill. Canfield Fire Department. His love for the fire ser- Bob was as passionate about vice grew, and he made a his family as he was with his career of it in 1983 when career. His wife Deby was he was appointed fire chief the light of his eyes, and he by the City of Canfield. He was an amazing husband. A was instrumental in creating dedicated father to Rob and the Cardinal Joint Fire District Katie, he was very proud of (CJFD) and was appointed fire his children’s achievements and chief of the district upon its cre- accomplishments. Rob followed in ation in 1990, a position he held his father’s footsteps and became a until his passing. He was dedicated to full-time firefighter/paramedic under his colleagues, employees, and community. Bob’s direction. Bob loved watching Katie Even on holidays, birthdays and anniversaries, play softball. To his five grandchildren—Robert Bob attended to the many duties of being a fire chief. III, Anna, Alyssa, Joey, and Timmy—he was affection- He helped create the Mahoning County Fire Chiefs’ ately known as “GrandBob” or “BobBob.” He loved tak- Association where he held many positions, includ- ing them places and showing them off. Bob also enjoyed ing president. He also helped establish the Mahoning NASCAR, golfing, trips to Myrtle Beach, and driving County Hazardous Materials Response Team. his Camaro.

Bob had a vision to make the CJFD a very progressive Bob was a compassionate man who always put others department, and he never stopped trying to achieve first. Memories and stories about him will continue to this goal. He led the department from a volunteer orga- be told for a long time. His legacy lives on through his nization to a paid department and was instrumental children, grandchildren and the members of the CJFD! Remembering Kyle Kenneth King Perry Fire Department – Oklahoma Career Captain Date of Death: August 7, 2011 Age: 53

yle Kenneth King, 53, of Perry, Oklahoma, passed week at the elementary school, inspecting businesses K from this life on August 7, 2011, sur- for fire safety, welding, and being outdoors. rounded by his loved ones. Kyle King was He was a member of the St. Rose of Lima born on April, 21, 1958, to Earl Kenneth Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and Donna Rae (Thompson) King Oklahoma Fire Fighters Association, in Perry, Oklahoma. He attended and the International Association schools in Perry, graduating of Professional Firefighters. from Perry High school in 1976. After graduation, Kyle Kyle was a selfless and gener- went to work for Ditch Witch ous man who is described and was employed there for by those who knew him as a more than 15 years. During goofball. He enjoyed life to his last three years at Ditch the fullest and loved spend- Witch, he joined the Perry ing time with his family. Fire Department as a Kyle King was a brave fire- volunteer firefighter. He fighter, an amazing hus- quickly realized that being band, a loving father, an a firefighter was his call- adoring grandfather, and ing. In 1991, Kyle joined the a faithful and loyal friend. Perry Fire Department. He He will truly be missed by bravely served the commu- his family, friends, and the nity as a firefighter and EMT entire community of Perry, for more than 20 years, attain- Oklahoma. ing the rank of captain. He is survived by his wife, Teresa, of On June 16, 2010, Kyle married his the home; his parents, Earl and Donna best friend, Teresa Taylor, in Perry, (Thompson) King, of Perry; two daugh- Oklahoma. Although their years together ters, Angel Mast of Cainsville, Missouri, were shorter than they had planned, there was and Falon King of Sand Springs, Oklahoma; a a lifetime of love fit into those years. brother, Mike King, and his wife, Brenda, of Perry; a sis- ter, Kim Fisher, and her husband, Mark, of Perry; and two When he was not working, Kyle enjoyed several hobbies. grandchildren, Ashlee Mast of Chillicothe, Missouri, and He loved taking daytrips with Teresa to see the country- Kaedan King of Cainsville, Missouri. He is also survived side, traveling, wood working, teaching fire prevention by numerous nieces and nephews. Remembering Christian D. Beaston Jr. Hellam Fire Company – Pennsylvania Volunteer Fire Police Officer Date of Death: December 7, 2011 Age: 52

hristian D. Beaston Jr. was born in Marietta, In his spare time, Chris loved to have yard sales at C Pennsylvania, on November 12, 1959. the Saturday’s Market and work on mowers. Upon graduation from Donegal High Everyone knew Chris. He would do any- School in 1978, Chris enlisted with thing for anybody. Maybe that’s why the Army National Guard. After his wife always says he should have his honorable discharge, he had been a State Farm agent, because, extensive training in firefight- “Like a good neighbor, Chris ing, forest firefighting, and fire Beaston was always there.” police. Chris enjoyed being a member of the Hellam and There are so many fond mem- Wrightsville Fire Companies ories of Christian. The fam- and the Pennsylvania Fire ily vacations to Wildwood, Police Association. He the outings at Mt. Gretna, served as 1st lieutenant for and the trips to the amuse- Wrightsville’s fire police. ment parks. Even firemen Emergencies weren’t the parties were memorable. At only times he dedicated one of Hellam’s parties, the his services. He also vol- men had to dress up like the unteered his time to com- Village People and sing their munity events such as songs. What an embarrass- River Runs, Polar Plunges, ing moment that was for him, Heritage Days, Bridge Busts because he had no idea what and carnivals. was happening! Sometimes Chris’s own fun had to be put on In 1985, Christian married Karin hold, because when the sirens blew Oakes. Together they raised two and his pager went off, Chris was on beautiful daughters, Natasha and his way to the scene. The public’s safety Ariana. When he became a grandfather, was his concern. Chris was overjoyed because there were now more children to spoil. Chris was as proud of his fam- Unfortunately, Christian’s life ended abruptly on ily as they are of him. He was a family man who did December 7, 2011, at the age of 52. Family, friends, and anything for them. Providing for them and getting them communities will miss him deeply. He may be gone, but everything they needed or wanted was his goal. he will never be forgotten! Remembering Derek V. Kozorosky United States Air Force, Kadena Air Force Base, Japan – Pennsylvania Career Senior Airman Date of Death: February 11, 2011 Age: 22

irman Derek V. Kozorosky was a firefighter assistance to obtain a college degree and for the pros- A assigned to the Fire Emergency Services pects of an exciting change in his life. In just Flight, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron, 18th over two years of service, he was able to Civil Engineering Group, Kadena Air reach his initial career goals of com- Base, Okinawa, Japan. He proudly pleting his CDCs in less than fif- served his fellow firefighters in teen months while scoring above mitigating structural, crash, 90% on all his end of course WMD, HAZMAT, medical, exams. Additionally, he was and rescue emergencies. He handpicked by flight leader- was dedicated and commit- ship to attend the challeng- ted in providing first class ing emergency medical fire protection for 24,000 technician basic training base personnel, 100+ course, where he excelled assigned/attached aircraft and received his National and 10,000 facilities valued Registry Certification. He at 8.4 billion dollars. was also able to achieve a few personal goals in his Airman Kozorosky was short time here by deploy- born at Westmoreland ing to Kuwait, giving him Hospital in Greensburg, the opportunity to meet a lot Pennsylvania, and grew up of new people while seeing in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. the world. Airman Kozorosky His dedication and attention was very excited about being to detail were evident at an early stationed at Kadena and being age when he obtained his black a part of the Fire Emergency belt in karate at the age of twelve. Services flight. He graduated from Bishop Carroll High School, where he played football and Derek was close to his immediate fam- basketball and was part of the homecoming ily and was a loving son, brother, and grand- court. Airman Kozorosky worked as a produce manager son. He is survived by his parents, David and Lisa at Giant Eagle grocery store for three years, where he Kozorosky; his sister, Mikayla; and his grandparents, was labeled by the owners as the “best employee they Len and Carol Zeman and Joe and Priscilla Kozorosky. ever had.” He also spent a year as a construction worker His is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cous- doing some masonry work. ins, and friends.

Airman Kozorosky began his Air Force career in He had a zest for life and left a lasting impression on November 2008. He joined the service for financial those he loved with his humor and integrity. Remembering John J. Lackovic Jr. Valley Forge Volunteer Fire Company – Pennsylvania Volunteer Fire Police Lieutenant Date of Death: July 11, 2011 Age: 60

ohn J. Lackovic, Jr. suffered a fatal heart attack nies, selling insurance until 1996, when he moved back J on Monday, July 11, 2011, shortly after to Chester County, Pennsylvania. He joined responding to a motor vehicle accident. Valley Forge Fire Company in 2001 and served as a fire police lieutenant until Born in Coatesville, he was the son his death. of the late John J. and Rose Marie Mackey Lackovic. John was a He loved golfing and spending 1969 graduate of Coatesville time with family and friends. High School and a 1975 graduate of the University of He was the husband of Maryland with a degree in Donna C. Poteet Lackovic, fire protection engineering. with whom he shared 37 years of marriage. John Throughout his life, John was a loving husband, was passionately involved father and grandfather and with various volun- will be truly missed by all teer fire companies. He who knew him. Surviving, started his illustrious fire in addition to his wife, career at Washington Hose Donna, are a son, John B. Company in 1968. While Lackovic; a daughter, Jillian attending the University A. Lackovic; two brothers, of Maryland, John served Robert and James Lackovic; with the College Park Fire two sisters, Mary Jo Beals and Department for five years Susan Bechtold; and two grand- and earned the rank of captain children, Ava and Nicholas. on Truck 12. From 1976 through 1985 John was a fire marshal with Because of his extensive knowledge of the Fire and EMS Fire Marshal’s Office fire science and fire behavior, John was in Chesterfield County, Virginia. There he often known to help young people in their path enforced state and county fire codes and investigated as successful firefighters. John will always be remem- fires, explosions, and hazardous materials releases. In bered for his calm composure and dealing with taxing 1985, John started working for fire insurance compa- situations with an unflappable coolness. Remembering Keith G. Rankin Lancaster Township Fire Department – Pennsylvania Volunteer Lieutenant Date of Death: September 25, 2011 Age: 38

eith Rankin was 38 years old and had served his Keith was a huge New York Yankees fan and at one K community for 23 years with Lancaster point attended spring training to see his team Township Fire Department. Keith had in pre-season action. been an assistant chief in the past and had again achieved the rank of He loved to travel and had been to lieutenant. Keith also was named Portugal several times and also to Firefighter of the Year after res- Jamaica. He enjoyed eating and cuing a woman from a fire. was definitely a foodie. Keith Keith loved to teach other was a tech junkie and always firefighters how to be bet- had the newest gadget on the ter firemen. He also worked market. If any of his friends as a Pennsylvania State or family had a question or Constable. needed a radio programmed he was the guy to get it done. Keith was a wonderful fam- If a friend called and needed ily man and loved his wife something, he would drop of five years. He was a lov- what he was doing and help ing stepfather to two girls. them. He was serious about He attended many soccer carrying on the legacy of his games and events, always fire family and took care of with his camera in hand tak- the widows of the men who ing tons of pictures. He loved died before him. Keith is sur- taking pictures, and his family vived by his wife, Abby; step- often called him their clicker and daughters, Sarah and Meaghan; teased him that he was like having his mother; aunt; brother; and two a personal paparazzi. sisters.

He is our hero and will live forever. Remembering Edward N. Steffy Rothsville Volunteer Fire Company – Pennsylvania Volunteer Fire Police Officer Date of Death: November 10, 2011 Age: 71

dward N. Steffy, 71 years old, from Rothsville, Ed also served in the United States Army Reserves as a E Pennsylvania, died on November 10, member of the 99th Field Hospital. 2011, in the line of duty while serving as a fire police officer. At the scene of a Following a long career in the automo- motor vehicle collision, Mr. Steffy tive and truck parts sales business, felt ill and sat in his vehicle, where Ed retired in 1999. During retire- he suffered a massive cardiac ment, Ed and his wife, Rosene, event and succumbed despite lived full-time in their recre- resuscitation efforts of medi- ational vehicle. They had been cal personnel. longtime campers and had an ambition to travel the coun- As a 49-year life member try in their RV. In their trav- of the Rothsville Volunteer els they were able to visit all Fire Company in Lancaster 50 states, including a 50th County, Pennsylvania, Ed wedding anniversary trip held numerous operations to Hawaii. Ed and Rosene and administrative posi- enjoyed life “on the road” tions, including assistant for almost twelve years. chief. Also during his tenure When “off the road,” Ed also with the fire company, he was loved spending time with his a life member in the Rothsville grandchildren and horses. Ambulance Association, where he served as an emergency med- He will fondly be remembered ical technician, crew chief, and for his ambition to assist those in CPR instructor, as well as holding need, as Ed was always willing to many administrative positions. Ed ran lend a helping hand. He also had an actively with the Rothsville Volunteer infectious sense of humor and lived life Fire Company until 1999. In recent years, to its fullest. his capacities were reduced to fire police duties. Prior to joining the Rothsville Fire Company, he held Ed is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Rosene memberships in both Lititz and Neffsville Volunteer Fire K. (Kreider) Steffy; two sons, Mark C. and wife, Companies. Dawn Steffy, of Lititz, Pennsylvania, and E. Nevin and wife, Janice Steffy, of Millington, Maryland. He is Ed was very active in the Salem United Methodist also survived by four grandchildren, Elizabeth Anne Church, located in Rothsville. He held many positions Steffy, Kathryn Marie Steffy, Nathaniel C. Steffy, and and was involved in numerous committees. Gabrielle E. Steffy.

Remembering Dennis James Cauthen Elgin Volunteer Fire Department – South Carolina Volunteer Chief Date of Death: August 16, 2011 Age: 54

ollowing in his father’s footsteps, Dennis Cauthen Dennis was a loving, caring, and amazing husband, F carried on the tradition of leading the father, grandfather, son, brother, mentor, Elgin Volunteer Fire Department as its and friend. He worked endlessly for chief for over 15 years. While serv- those he loved, including his wife, ing the same department for more Teresa, and their three children, than 30 years, he also served sev- five grandchildren, and his par- eral terms on the Lancaster ents. Not only did he live a life County Fire Commission and of service to his family, but was an active member of he also devoted much of his the Lancaster County Fire time to others in the church, Chiefs’ Association. scouts, community and fire service. Dennis achieved Dennis was also an instruc- his goal of making memo- tor for the South Carolina ries for everyone. Fire Academy for over 17 years. During that time he In his memory, the provided over 2,165 hours Lancaster County EMS of instruction to hundreds renamed their annual of local and regional fire- “First Responder of the fighters in various courses. Year Award” the “Dennis In addition to his dedica- J. Cauthen Award” for his tion to the fire service and years of dedication and his full-time job, as the owner teamwork. He was also hon- of Williams Flooring, he volun- ored by the firefighting class teered in many other capacities. at Lancaster High School and At his local church he was board of the Lancaster County fire service, trustees chair, president of the men’s when they dedicated their new train- club, a Sunday school teacher, and a site ing facility in his memory. leader for Salkehatchie Summer Service Camps (a United Methodist Church mission camp) and even If everyone could only do half of what Dennis did dur- participated in mission trips internationally. He volun- ing his lifetime the world would reap great benefits, as teered with the local Boy Scout Troop 180 as a board he served everyone as part of his own family. He lived by member and a venture crew leader. the motto “Instead of giving someone a fish and feeding them for day, take the time to teach them to fish so they Dennis was not only a mentor, but a father figure to so will have food for a lifetime.” many people beyond his core family. He provided sup- port and guidance to his children, as well as other chil- On August 16, 2011, at the age of 54, Chief Dennis J. dren, while coaching his son’s sports teams and teaching Cauthen lost his life while serving his community and classes for his daughters at Girl Scouts. those he loved so dearly. Remembering Robin E. West Startex Fire Department – South Carolina Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: June 19, 2011 Age: 55

obin was born September 10, 1955. He offi- Robin was married to his high school sweetheart (me!) R cially joined the Startex Volunteer Fire for 36 years and has a very loving family. We Department in 1975. His father was a char- have a son, Joshua West, his wife, Leigh, ter member and fire chief from 1961 and their daughter, Kendall; our until 1993, so Robin actually grew up daughter, Jessi Hill, her husband, in the fire department. He dearly Johnathan, and two sons, Noah loved being a firefighter and was and Tucker. The grandchil- very dedicated to the depart- dren were the light of Robin’s ment. Before we were married, life. He is also survived by many of our dates were at fire two sisters, Pam Wheeler calls or the department. He and Dianne Rogers, and a was very much a commu- brother, Jesse West. nity man, and if anyone ever needed help, he was always His motto was, “The hap- there. He loved his God and piest people aren’t the his family, in that order. ones who have the best Being very active in the of everything, but the church, he sang in the choir ones who make the best of and in a quartet with our everything they have!” son, daughter, and son-in- law. He loved to joke around We miss him terribly, but with people and gave most of feel his presence is always them nicknames. with us.

Remembering Trampus S Haskvitz South Dakota Department of Agriculture, Division of Wildland Fire Suppression – South Dakota Career Seasonal Firefighter Date of Death: August 11, 2011 Age: 23

rampus S Haskvitz was born December 28, 1987, He was a leader and had a knack for mischief. He could T in Custer, South Dakota, to Don and make pulling weeds fun. Ben and John always LuJean Haskvitz. Born six minutes after wanted their little brother—the youngest his twin brother, John, he joined by six minutes—to look up to them. brother Benjamin and sister Betsy. “But it was really us who looked up to He was blessed with lots of aunts, him,” Ben said. “We emulated him uncles, cousins, and friends he and tried to find a piece of his had gained over the years. He character to put into our own. was an amazing Uncle to Ella He could talk to anybody. The Lou. At the time of his death, guy could make friends with a he was living in Buffalo Gap, wall.” People always wanted South Dakota. to help Trampus since he was often the smallest in Trampus attended Hot the group, but usually it was Springs public schools and Trampus who was helping was involved in football, others. basketball, baseball and track. After high school he All three brothers were attended Dickinson State seasonal firefighters for the University, where he played South Dakota Wildland Fire football for the Blue Hawks Suppression Division, and and graduated in 2010 with a they had the opportunity to major in business administra- work side by side on the fire tion and a minor in manufactur- line for the summers of 2008 and ing technology. For the last five 2009. Trampus joined the ranks years of his life, Trampus worked as in 2007 and was in his fifth summer a seasonal firefighter. season when he died fighting the Coal Canyon Fire. Trampus was the most kindhearted, caring person, always putting other people first and taking The City of Hot Springs, South Dakota, has proclaimed care of everyone. He was his family’s rock. After los- August 11th Trampus Haskvitz Day. An annual golf ing Trampus we learned how much Trampus had taken tournament will be held every June to raise money for care of his college friends, giving crosses to people who the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, as well as a motor- were having hard times. He told his sister to wear a cross cycle poker run and softball tournament in honor of and keep it close to her heart, for then God is always Trampus. “Never Forgotten” is the vow of his family, with you. Trampus will always be remembered for his friends, and area firefighters. If love alone could have strong heart, gentle spirit, and fearless approach to life. spared him, he would have lived forever. Remembering William George Waldner and Jacob Paul Waldner Sunset Fire Department – South Dakota Volunteer Firefighters Date of Death: September 15, 2011 Ages: 22 and 20

illiam Waldner and Jacob Waldner W were members of the Sunset Volunteer Fire Department. They were always helping people in any way possible, and join- ing our local volunteer fire department was just one of the numerous ways they volunteered their time to help less fortunate peo- ple. They were both in the fire service for about three to four years.

Both William and Jacob lived at the Sunset Community all their lives.

William was helping with the farm work on the community. He was also a tremendous William help at the community blacksmith shop. Everyone Jacob knew they could depend on him. He was an inventive per- son, always full of new ideas.

Jacob was working as an apprentice for his dad to be an electrician. When not busy doing electrical work, Jacob helped anyone who needed his help around the community. He was always ready to lend a hand.

On September 15, 2011, William and Jacob died when a We made lots of precious memories through the years, coal bin exploded. Our small community was in shock and we will never take for granted the few short years when this double tragedy hit. that we were able to share with them.

Till our joyful Reunion in heaven We love and miss you More than words can say Our firefighting angels Remembering Gaston A. Gagne III Baytown Fire Department – Texas Career Firefighter/EMT Date of Death: July 26, 2011 Age: 46

aston Aloysius Gagne III began organized fire- ness. His involvement in fitness training was a twice a G fighting with the Crosby Volunteer Fire day every shift commitment. His involvement Department in 1983. He joined the U.S. went far beyond just his own fitness; he Navy in 1985. After serving in the Navy tried to help motivate his crew mem- he moved to El Paso, Texas, and bers to improve their status together. obtained his Texas Department of Health paramedic patch. He Gaston enjoyed life to the fullest, started his career with the City always busy and forever enter- of Baytown Fire Department taining others. He loved rid- in 1993. He earned his ing his Harley, either with a Hazardous Material Oper­ group or by himself. Gaston ator Certificate and was was a “Mr. Fixit,” believing part of the city’s Hazardous there was nothing he could Material Response Team. not do. He was also with the Urban Search & Rescue Team. Gaston Aloysius Gagne III was truly a unique Gaston was awarded Fire personality. Fighter of the Year in 2008. One of his outstanding con- He is survived by his wife tributions was in the nation- of 12 years, Elizabeth; his ally recognized “Beat Alley” son, Gaston IV (Sonny); step- fire prevention presentations daughters, Leslie Myers and to the primary and elementary Robin Greeninger; and grand- schools. Gaston was a leader in children, Hunter, Holly and Harley the area of firefighter physical fit- Myers. Remembering Todd W. Krodle Dallas Fire-Rescue Department – Texas Career Lieutenant Date of Death: August 14, 2011 Age: 41

odd Wesley Krodle was born April 6, 1970, in In 1993, he became a member of the Dallas Fire T Greenville, Texas, the firstborn of Richard Department and Rookie Class 239. After and Nell Krodle. He was as close to the rookie school, Todd was assigned to perfect son as any boy could be and Station 26 as a fire rescue officer and was a hero to his brother, Kurt. He paramedic. He was promoted to graduated from Greenville High driver-engineer and transferred School in 1988 and earned a to Station 35 for almost a year bachelor’s degree in agriculture before moving back to 26’s, education from East Texas where he would spend the rest State University in 1992. of his career. Todd was the type of person that any parent would want Todd loved his cowork- their son to grow to be or ers and the community for their daughter to marry. that he served, and he was equally loved in return. A At age nine, Todd put his firefighter at 26’s described faith in Jesus Christ and Todd’s first shift as their followed Him with his lieutenant, “That day, the whole life. While in high greatest officer we had ever school, his youth minister known walked through the challenged him to live his life door.” When his crew was by a simple statement: “I’m asked to describe their lieu- Third.” For the rest of his life, tenant, they said: he put his relationship with Jesus first, his relationship to others sec- He was the epitome of character ond, and he always put himself third. and integrity. He taught us that doing the right thing may take lon- In 1986, Todd went on his first date with ger, make you sweat more, and may not Kelli, who quickly became his best friend. Todd win you many friends. You could never out- and Kelli dated for almost nine years before marrying work Todd; all you could hope for is to work beside in 1995. Todd knew early that he would spend his life him. loving and cherishing Kelli, which he did until his final breath. They welcomed their son, Cade, in 1998, and Todd Krodle was what every man should strive to their daughter, Caroline, in 2001. His children were be – the consummate husband and father, a faithful his greatest source of pride, and he cared for and loved son and brother, and a man of integrity and character them with every ounce of his being. Todd worked hard with a relentless work ethic. We will miss Todd each so that he could attend to practically every need of his day of the rest of our lives, but we are better because family; that brought him deep joy. he was part of our lives. Remembering Elias Macias-Jaquéz Cactus Volunteer Fire Department – Texas Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 20, 2011 Age: 49

lias Macias-Jaquéz, 49, was very strong and a hard Elias was a very loving person, especially when it came E worker. He grew up in Cuauhtémoc, to animals. He enjoyed feeding the cattle, the Chihuahua, Mexico. Then he migrated horses, the pigs, anything that came across around the United States until he the farm. met our mother, Josephine, in a little town called Cimarron, One thing he sure did enjoy New Mexico. They lived there besides working was being with for a few years, then decided his family. He was able to spend to move to Texas where he time not only with his wife raised his four daughters. He and four girls, but also with lived in Cactus, Texas, for his three grandchildren. He 23 years and worked at JBS never was able to experience Swift & Co. for 23 years as having a son, but he did get well. Elias did a lot of hard to have two grandsons that work, including even help- he loved very much and ing out on a farm for just showed them as much as about his whole life. he could.

He enjoyed being a vol- Even though they were too unteer firefighter for two little to learn, he would still years for the Cactus Fire do so. He spoiled his grand- Department. He enjoyed children like there was no being able to help anyone in tomorrow. need. We remember back in 2011, about a week before his acci- All we have left is the wonderful dent, he was very proud of himself memories he shared with us. He is because they had a call for a fire out a grand hero not only to his family, in the country, and he was able to help an but to his community where everyone elderly man save his barn. knew him. Remembering Larry G. Nelson Val Verde County Rural Fire Department – Texas Volunteer Lieutenant Date of Death: August 12, 2011 Age: 61

amily, friends, and fellow firefighters all cried as just go buy whatever was needed so the department F the final call was received on the pagers would be ready for the next call. of the Val Verde County Fire Department. Lt. Larry G. Nelson, age 61, would no Larry was a devoted family man. He longer answer his call to duty. loved his wife, Joyce; son, Michael; daughter-in-law, Becky; and Larry was known more for his grandsons, Justin and Cade. He giving than receiving. He was a loved his three sisters and two man whose strength was only brothers. His sisters all stated matched by his generosity. that Larry was always more The Larry I knew was a good concerned about their wel- natured person. He had an fare than his own. The rea- ease about him that made son we did not receive an being around him fun. He acknowledgement from his wasn’t pushy or a brag- brothers is that tragically gart. “What you saw was Larry and his two brothers what you got—a salt of the all died within ten days of earth kind of a guy that you each other in August 2011. wanted on your side,” said Larry touched many lives Don Ingram, publisher of in many ways, and they all the Andrews County News. came out better for knowing him. Joyce stated, “Not a day Being a non-compensated fire goes by that I don’t think of my department, everyone in the husband, friend, and fellow fire- department has other jobs. Larry fighter with great respect and love, worked two weeks on and two weeks and a yearning to see him one more off as a consultant in the oil fields of time, because there was no chance west Texas, but when he was home, he to say a final goodbye or to tell him how was dedicated to his beloved fire department much I loved and respected him.” 110%. Because of his dedication and tireless efforts, he was elected Fire Fighter of the Year in 2007. This was Larry was a hero every day to everyone he knew and in followed by a resolution by the State of Texas House of the way he lived his life. I invite you to go to YouTube Representatives recognizing him for his exemplary per- and view the tribute entitled “Lt. Larry G. Nelson” formance and being an inspiration to others. When the which was put together by his fellow firefighters. He will fire department needed something, Larry wouldn’t wait be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of know- three days for a purchase order to be issued. He would ing him. Remembering Chris K. Pham Dallas Fire-Rescue Department – Texas Career Firefighter Date of Death: June 23, 2011 Age: 35

hris Pham was born June 3, 1976, in Saigon, graduate of his family by earning a bachelor’s degree C Vietnam, the fifth of six children. Chris, from the University of Texas at Dallas. Then, along with his mother, Thanh, and sib- in September 2005, his dream of becom- lings, Calvin, Khang, and Monica, ing a firefighter was realized. Chris fled the war-torn area in 1979 to a trained extensively to reach his Malaysian refugee camp. Two goals, becoming a part of Airport years later, they traveled to the Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) U.S. and made Garland, Texas, and earning superior status on their new home. After ten the annual fitness test. Chris years of hard work and accli- utilized his skills on a daily mation to their new envi- basis as a firefighter and ronment, Chris and his paramedic of Station 49, family were able to sponsor the second busiest sta- his father and other two tion in Dallas. Although siblings, Mai and Tram, to Chris treated his career America. and responsibilities with utmost seriousness, he was Chris met his longtime known for his humor and girlfriend, Kate, in 1992. good natured personality He stole her heart with his among his fellow comrades. boyish smile, silly ways, Chris even became a self- and goofy personality. They proclaimed “elite” member encouraged each other to pur- of the Hispanic Firefighters sue their respective dreams— Association, since an Asian asso- hers to become an optometrist ciation had not yet been created. and his to become a firefighter. Chris and Kate became “parents” after Chris’s love of being a firefighter was adopting their beloved dogs, Peanut and outshone only by the love he had for his Butter. Chris was an incredibly thoughtful and family. He became a father figure to his niece sentimental man; Kate found many letters and cards he and nephew, assisting his sister, Monica, in providing had saved throughout the years. According to Chris, guidance and instilling a strong educational foundation they had been “married for over 30 years!” in her children. Along with his siblings, Chris cherished the relationship he held with his mother and always Chris always strove to better himself, dedicating his made it a priority to care for her needs. Although Chris life to becoming an exceptional firefighter for the left far too soon, his legacy will live on with the many city of Dallas. In 2003, Chris became the first college memories he created with his loved ones. Remembering Gregory Mack Simmons Eastland Fire Department – Texas Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 15, 2011 Age: 50

regory Mack Simmons began a life that would Greg answered his final call on Friday, April 15, G cross paths with people from all walks 2011, while battling one of five wildfires of life. Firefighter Simmons was always in Eastland County, Texas. Although willing to lend a helping hand. He his efforts helped to save the accepted the oath, belief, and life town of Gorman, Eastland Fire of one who serves his commu- Department volunteer fire- nity. You could find him at the fighter Greg Simmons gave his concession stand cooking for life doing what he loved. Greg the band, at the volunteer fire was indeed a giver. On that department’s fish fry, lend- dreadful day, the lives of his ing a hand with the town’s brotherhood at the Sachse haunted house, or serving and Eastland Volunteer as the “oldest water boy Fire Departments, his in history” for the athletic community and, most teams and the Eastland importantly, his fam- High School band. ily were changed forever. They will always miss Greg received a 10-year the husband, father, and pin from both the Sachse friend he was. Fire Department and the Eastland Fire Department. He is survived by his wife, He was named Fire Fighter Carrie Simmons; his daugh- of the Year in 2001 and 2012 ters, Kateland and Karley and received an award from the Simmons; his mother, Inez State of Texas in 2011. He had an Simmons; his sister, Sharon unforgettable smile, cheerful laugh- Simmons; and his parents-in-law, ter, and a warm hello. One of his favor- Ken and Helen Songer. He was prede- ite pastimes was to take advantage of the ceased by his father, Harvey Simmons. clear and dark evening skies in Eastland, where he would have the girls join him outside to watch the The legacy he leaves behind in his wife, Carrie, and his stars and spend time talking. He would even stop in the daughters, Kateland and Karley, is reflected in their middle of a crazy day to make a simple phone call to his special smile, contagious laughter, and the sparkle in girls just to say, “I love you.” their eyes.

Remembering Stephen R. Cox South Davis Metro Fire Agency – Utah Career Fire Marshal Date of Death: August 28, 2011 Age:55

teve Cox was hired as an emergency medical tech- was the current Davis County Fire Officers president, Snician/firefighter with the South Davis was a Fire Prevention Board member, and a Fire District from September 1989 to member of the Fire Marshals Association December 2004. In January 2005, and Utah State Chiefs’ Association, he became part of the South Davis along with many other fire boards. Metro Fire Agency. Steve was a very “hands on” member of the On a personal level, Steve loved fire department, in that he was riding his Harley-Davidson always trying to make things motorcycle. He loved to safer and better for the com- cook (especially his famous munity in which he served. homemade secret salsa rec- In order to better do that, ipe), go camping, and work he applied for and was pro- outdoors in his yard. But moted to the fire marshal his greatest passion was position in 2000. Steve spending time with his took that position very family—his wife, Karen; seriously and continued to his kids, Sarah, Tony, educate himself in order to Becky, Greg, and Nate and obtain the many certifica- their spouses; but most of tions required for the posi- all, his grandkids. Steve was tion of fire marshal. a family man with a great passion for that family. Steve was certified by the National Association of Fire Steve passed away on August 28, Investigators, the National Uniform 2011, while attempting to com- Building Code, the National Fire plete a physical fitness test for his job Protection Association Inspector, Utah at the fire department. Steve’s passing State Inspector II, the National I.C.B.O. has left a huge hole in the hearts of his fam- Plans Examiner Certification, and numerous ily and friends and the community he served. individual state certifications. Steve was a member of the National and Utah International Association of Arson We, as a family, are honored to display one of Steve’s Investigators, completed several courses in high angle most prized possessions, his Harley-Davidson motor- rescue, heavy duty rescue and extrication procedures, cycle. Steve had his motorcycle custom painted to honor and was Firefighter I & II certified. Fire Marshal Cox one of his other major passions, the fire service. Remembering Jeffery Alan Cocke Altavista Volunteer Fire Department – Virginia Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: August 4, 2011 Age: 59

effery Alan Cocke was born April 20, 1952, in while with the Altavista Fire Company for over 39 J Lynchburg, Virginia, a son of Christine years. Jeff worked through the ranks as a Keesee Cocke of Altavista and the late firefighter, holding several elected posi- Claude Swanson Cocke. He was a life- tions including lieutenant, captain, long member of Lane Memorial assistant chief, and chief during his United Methodist Church. He time volunteering. According to retired from Abbott Laboratories many community members, he with 21 years of service in is going to be an irreplaceable 2003, allowing him more part of the tight-knit com- time to enjoy his favorite munity of Altavista. hobby—golf. After retiring, Jeffery also worked several Altavista Fire Company part-time jobs at various Chief John Tucker says, local businesses—NAPA “Jeffery was one of the Auto Parts, Bennett’s top call runners in the Mechanical, and more department. He meant a recently Steve’s Florist. lot. He was someone you could call in the middle Jeffery was a member of of the night and he’d come the Lynch Station Ruritan out to help even if it wasn’t Club, where he held sev- really that big of a deal. Or eral positions from member for the one that was a really to serving as president for at big call, he was always there. least two terms during his more We could count on him no than 22 years of service. Jeff also matter what.” loved Altavista High School sports. He volunteered for many years keep- Jeffery Alan Cocke, 59, of Altavista, ing stats for the football team, score- Virginia, died Thursday, August 4, 2011, at keeping for the basketball team, working in Lynchburg General Hospital. He was the hus- the pit crew for the marching band, and assisting with band of Vickie Bowyer Cocke for 39 years. In addition girls’ softball. He eventually became an umpire with the to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Jennifer Colonial Officials Association in 2000. Monroe (38) and her husband, Jeff; and Christy Murray (31) and her husband, Brian; three grandsons, Jordan Volunteering and helping others was his life’s pas- Monroe (18), Jackson Monroe (17), and Joshua Murray sion. He served his ultimate position of volunteerism (5), all of Altavista. Remembering Matthew M. Hadaller III Lewis County Fire District #3 – Washington Career Chief Date of Death: June 27, 2011 Age: 47

att was born on November 7, 1963, in Ethel, everyone from small kids to geriatric residents. Matt M Washington. He was the son of coached pee wee football, t-ball, and girls’ Matthew and Marjorie Hadaller. softball. He was very involved in his Matt grew up in the small town of community from being on the city Mossyrock, Washington, where council and from having the fire he graduated high school. Matt department doing year round was a star football and basket- activities for the town. The fire ball player. After school, he department annually put on worked at the local sawmill. an Easter egg hunt in town, He committed 16+ years to Christmas with Santa, 4th his fire department, first of July fireworks show, as a volunteer firefighter. and much more. Matt was He was appointed assis- always working to improve tant fire chief in 1998, and the fire department and his then held the position as community as a whole. Mossyrock’s first paid fire chief from 2003 until his Matt leaves behind his wife, death in June 2011. Loranda; daughter, Robin; sons, Austin, Brayden, Matt was admired by many and Wyatt; and grandson, people in Mossyrock— Ashton. Remembering Garet G. Rasmussen Chelan County Fire District 1 – Washington Career Battalion Chief Date of Death: June 12, 2011 Age: 38

aret was a firefighter’s firefighter. He was a leader, a Garet’s own words. “I play with fire for a living. Love my G mentor, and a friend to all. More impor- wife to eternity. I enjoy every moment raising tantly, he was a loving husband and caring my two beautiful children. My family is father. Garet had two passions in life, my world! I’m truly blessed!” the fire service and his family. He is survived by his wife, Allyson, and Garet’s enthusiasm about being a two children, Jostin and Jalyn. fireman could only be matched by the love he had for his fam- Garet’s determination and will ily. He lived and breathed for to succeed gained him tre- his children. He also enjoyed mendous respect from his the outdoors—camping, tak- fellow brothers at Chelan ing the kids hiking, having County Fire District #1 in picnics, hunting, and fish- Wenatchee, Washington. ing. He honed his skills He proudly served for 15 with long-range sighting years as a firefighter, lieu- and target practice. He also tenant, captain and eventu- loved playing basketball, ally battalion chief. He was working out at the gym, a member of Local 3835. and watching UFC fights.

Above all, Garet was a fam- On June 12, 2011, at the age ily man, a devoted father of 38, Battalion Chief Garet who participated fully in every Rasmussen lost his life while aspect of his children’s lives. serving his community and This devotion is best expressed in doing the job he loved so much. Remembering Joseph A. “Joey” King Jr. Davis Creek-Ruthdale Volunteer Fire Department – West Virginia Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: December 4, 2011 Age: 60

oey was born on August 28, 1951, in Charleston, the fire department not for himself, but for Anthony. J West Virginia. He grew up with his par- He came and asked if he and Anthony could ents, Joseph and Betty Jo, and his siblings, join. He felt that Anthony was maybe Arietta, Diana, Bethel, and Linnie hanging around the wrong crowd “Curley.” and wanted to get him into some- thing more positive. I don’t think Joey was blessed to have three Joey had any idea how much children, Edna, Joey III, and it would affect his life! In the LeAnne. Joey’s beloved only son early days he was there to passed away at age 12 in 1988, see that Anthony went in which was very devastating the right direction, but he to him. Joey later met his soon realized that he had longtime companion, Sonja a knack for what the fire Kay. He helped raise her son, department does--help- Anthony, who meant the ing people! He became world to him and became not only a firefighter, but a fine firefighter and young a great friend to many man. Joey loved to travel to members of the depart- Florida on his motorcycle to ment. He saw that he could visit his daughter and spend use his mechanical skills to time with his granddaugh- benefit the fire department ters, Amanda and Skyler. Joey by caring for the equipment. loved to ride and was a member Most people will never real- of the Patriot Guard and The Red ize how valuable an asset Joey Knights Motorcycle Clubs. was to our department. He was our friend, our brother, our mentor, Joey spent many years working at and many looked to him for personal Copley’s Wrecker Service. He later worked advice to help them to get through life. He for the City of Charleston Sanitary Board as a was a great man, and we miss him every day. mechanic, before retiring for health reasons. Joey was always there for someone in need. People have said Joey loved to tease and play practical jokes on others. he was the nicest guy they knew and could never be He enjoyed taking his nieces’ sons and granddaugh- replaced. One man stated at his memorial service that ters to his garage, sitting them on his motorcycle, or Joey was a “First Responder” before there was such a taking them to the firehouse and putting them in the thing, the man you wanted at an accident scene. fire truck.

Joey served as a volunteer firefighter for seven years. One On December 4, 2011, we lost a lifelong companion, of his sisters asked Chief Jeff Snodgrass how Joey got father, uncle, grandpa, brother, friend, and firefighter, started at the fire department. The chief said Joey joined but most of all A GIFT OF LIFE. We love and miss you. Remembering Ronald D. Ruprecht Stone Lake Fire Department – Wisconsin Volunteer 2nd Lieutenant Date of Death: June 11, 2011 Age: 51

onald “Dwaine” Ruprecht died at his home on community minded, he served as the president of R June 11, 2011, after responding to a the Stone Lake Volunteer Fire Department. false alarm. Those who loved and shared his life are his Dwaine was born July 18, 1959, in parents, Ronald and Barbara Ruprecht; Watseka, Illinois, to Ronald O. two brothers, Bill (Maria) Ruprecht and Barbara (Buck) Ruprecht. and Roy (Kelly) Ruprecht; and two He owned and operated R.D.R sisters, Rhonda (Michael) Fisher Construction. In his spare and Becky (Jeff) Ritter. Dwaine time Dwaine enjoyed hunt- is also survived by thirteen ing and fishing. Being very nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by one sis- ter, Linda Betts, in 2007. National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

ongress created the National Fallen Firefighters Award scholarships to fire service survivors C Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to honor Spouses, life partners, children and stepchildren of America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the non- fallen firefighters are eligible for scholarship assis- profit Foundation has developed and expanded pro- tance for education and job training costs. Since grams that fulfill that mandate. Our mission is to 1997, the Foundation has awarded more than $2 mil- honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes lion in scholarships. and to provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding their lives. Help departments deal with line-of-duty deaths Sponsor the annual National Fallen Under a Department of Justice grant, the Foundation Firefighters Memorial Weekend offers training to help fire departments handle a line-of- Each October, the Foundation sponsors the official duty death. The Foundation’s Taking Care of Our Own® national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line training provides departments with extensive pre- of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend incident planning support. Immediately after a death, the weekend activities that include special programs a Local Assistance State Team is available, by request, for survivors and coworkers along with moving public to provide technical assistance and personal support to ceremonies. The Memorial Weekend activities are tele- help the department and the family. Team members vised nationwide. assist the departments and families with filing of paper- work for state and Federal benefits. Help survivors attend the Weekend The Foundation provides travel, lodging and meals for Immediately after the World Trade Center event on immediate survivors of fallen firefighters being hon- September 11, 2001, the Foundation provided financial ored. This allows survivors to participate in Family Day support to the Fire Department of New York to help sessions conducted by trained grief counselors and in with funerals and provide counseling services for the the public tributes. families of the fallen firefighters. The Foundation con- tinues to support the department and families. Offer support programs for survivors When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the Work to prevent line-of-duty deaths Foundation provides survivors with a place to turn. With the support of fire and life safety organizations, Families receive emotional assistance through a Fire the Foundation launched the “Everyone Goes Home®” Service Survivors Network. This Network campaign in 2004. Its goal is to reduce matches survivors with similar experi- firefighter deaths. ences and circumstances. This contact can be an important part of their healing. Create a National Memorial Park Families receive a bi-monthly newsletter The Foundation is expanding the national and specialized grief resources. Our Web memorial site in Emmitsburg, Maryland, site provides information on Federal, to create the first permanent national State and local survivor benefits and park honoring all firefighters. The park other resources. An annual Fire Service includes a brick Walk of Honor® that Survivors Conference offers life skills connects the National Fallen Firefighters workshops and a chance to network with Memorial Chapel and the official national other survivors. The Hal Bruno Camp for monument. A statue honoring the fire- Children of Fallen Firefighters provides a fighters who died in the World Trade weekend bereavement camp combined Center, “To Lift a Nation,” was added to with fun activities for the children. the park in 2007. Board of Directors

Officers Advisory Committee Chief Dennis Compton – Chairman Chief Douglas Barry International Fire Service Training Association Los Angeles Fire Department (Ret.) Mesa, Arizona Los Angeles, California

William Webb – Vice Chairman Garry Briese Executive Director Co-Founder Congressional Fire Services Institute, Washington, D.C. The Center for New Media and Resiliency Castle Rock, Colorado Seth Statler – Treasurer Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, Eileen Coglianese NASA, Washington, D.C. Fire Service Survivor Chicago, Illinois Vina Drennan – Secretary Fire Service Survivor, Jersey City, New Jersey Helen King Fire Service Survivor Members Alamo, Tennessee Deputy Chief William Goldfeder Loveland-Symmes Fire Department, Loveland, Ohio Sylvia Kratzke Fire Service Survivor Chief Leonard King Amherst, New York Maryland Fire Service, Annapolis, Maryland Chief Robert Ojeda Troy Markel Kerrville Fire Department President, VFIS Kerrville, Texas York, Pennsylvania Mike Robertson Rod Matthews Chief, Training Development State Farm Insurance Companies Louis F. Garland DOD Fire Academy Bloomington, Illinois Goodfellow AFB, Texas

Mark Moon Executive Vice President, Sales & Field Operations Ex-Officio Member Motorola Solutions Schaumburg, Illinois Chief Ernest Mitchell Administrator Harold Schaitberger U.S. Fire Administration General President Emmitsburg, Maryland International Association of Fire Fighters Washington, D.C. Executive Director Chief Philip Stittleburg Chairman Chief Ronald Jon Siarnicki National Volunteer Fire Council National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Washington, D.C. Emmitsburg, Maryland NFFF Corporate Advisory Committee

Grant Reeves – Co-Chair Jim Johnson Joey Underwood PBI Pierce Safety Components

John Granby - Co-Chair Ed Klima Ken Willette Lion Dover International Speedway NFPA

Barry Balliet Cynthia Leighton Janet Wilmoth Provident Benefits Motorola Fire Chief Publications

Danielle Cagan Jeff Morris Tony Wyman Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company Honeywell Honeywell

Geoff Evans Alyson Phillips Dave Wyrwas Streamlight 3M VFIS

Jeff Fackler Mark Rossi Mark Youngs DuPont Dover International Speedway Youngs Financial

Alex Hannah Chris Rovenstine Neal Zipser ICMA-RC Kidde Residential & Commercial Kidde Residential & Commercial Div. Div. Bruce Johnson ICC Mike Ryan Scott Health and Safety

Federal Government Partners Special thanks for the continuing support from our Federal partners:

Bureau of Justice Assistance Department of Justice

Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate Department of Homeland Security

Federal Railroad Administration Department of Transportation

U.S. Fire Administration Department of Homeland Security Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

American Eagle Sponsors Silver Helmet Sponsors Motorola Solutions Foundation Bank of America Motorola Solutions, Inc, Brotherhood Ride Inc. State Farm Fire and Casualty Company Hal Bruno Cygnus Expositions Crystal Memorial Sponsors Fire Protection Publications Dover International Speedway, Inc. Firefighter John Paul Memory Memorial Foundation Dunkin’ Donuts & Baskin Robbins Community FireRescue1.com Foundation, Inc. International Association of Fire Chiefs, Inc. Firehouse.com International Code Council Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company Maryland State Firemen’s Association Glatfelter Insurance Group Mine Safety Appliances Company Art Glatfelter OSHKOSH Corporation Foundation, Inc Honeywell Life Safety PennWell ICMA (RC) Retirement Corporation Rural/Metro Corporation Kidde Safety Southern Comfort (Brown-Forman Corporation) PBI Performance Products, Inc. St. John’s Fire District Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. Stanley Black & Decker World Headquarters Provident Agency, Inc. Star & Shield Insurance Safety Components First Responders 911 Foundation TenCate Protective Fabrics USA Scott Safety - Tyco/Simplex Grinnell Watkins Manufacturing Corporation Streamlight, Inc. Tyco International Management Co. Bronze Helmet Sponsors 3M Gold Helmet Sponsors Adventist Glen Oaks Hospital American Fire Sprinkler Assoc. - Chesapeake Bay Air Methods Corporation International Chapter Amkus Daytona International Speedway Arnel Compressor IngersolRand DuPont BFPE International Elsevier - Fire Rescue Magazine CMGRP, Inc. FIRE-DEX, LLC. Chicago Fire Department Gold Badge Society Harley-Davidson Motor Company Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association Lion Exchange Club of Hanover Steel Family Charitable Foundation, Inc. Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association VFIS/Glatfelter Insurance Group Fire Chief Magazine Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Fire Instructors & Officers Greece Ridge Exempt Fireman’s Association FireDex Butler Hale Products, Inc. Kovatch Motorsports Hanover Park Professional Firefighters Assoc., Local Linemark Printing 3452 Maryland Fire Chiefs Association, Inc. Hawaii Fire Chiefs Association Metropolitan Washington D.C. Synod Thomas Hays National Fire Protection Association Holmatro Rescue Equipment, Inc. Nickelodeon Suites Resort Howard County Fire & Rescue Northwest Firefighters Local 3572 International Association of Fire Fighters Ocean City F.O.O.L.S. J. P. Morgan Paramedic Services of Illinois, Inc. KME Fire Apparatus Praetorian Group/FireRescue 1.com Los Angeles Firemen’s Credit Union Sterling Rope Company Inc. Metropolitan Chiefs Section of the IAFC/NFPA United Pima Firefighters - IAFF Local 3504 NCC Fire Chiefs Association W.S. Darley Family Foundation Northwest Medical Center Waterous Company Omni Corporation Wells Fargo Bank P.W. Stephens Environmental, Inc. Witmer Public Safety Group, Inc. Parkview Health Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling Pewter Helmet Sponsors PA Fire Expo Arctic Ease Penton Media, Inc. Auto Club Speedway Phenix Technology Inc. Black Helmet Apparel Philadelphia Fire Officers Union Calvary Baptist Church Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Dept. Training Academy Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. Redwood City Fire Department Chick-fil-A, Inc. Rio Rico Firefighters Union Craftworks Foundation The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC Cygnus Business Media, Inc. S & W Construction Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association Santa Clara Firefighters Foundation Emergency Vehicle Service, Inc. Silvertowne Mint Fire News, Inc. Sundt Construction, Inc. Flanigan Bilt Putters Sunshine Bouquet Company Geltech Solutions THFS, Inc. dba Fetha Styx Greater Cincinnati Regional NFFF Golf Tourism Council of Frederick County, Inc. Greater Des Moines Golf Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Town of Menasha Fire Department Give with Liberty Unite the United Glenside Fire Protection District United Fire Equipment Co. Glenside Professional Fire Fighters, IAFF Local 3277 W. W. Williams Government Services Group Weinbrenner Shoe Company Hayward Firefighters Charitable Fund West Metro Firefighters Henrietta Professional Firefighters & Dispatchers IAFF Local #3738 Black Helmet Sponsors Tim Hogan 1-800-Boardup/Protechs Honeywell First Responder Products Accusource Services LLC Hoodz International, LLC (Belfor USA Group) Alaska Fire Chief’s Association IAFF - Local # 293 Ed Andrezjewski Kohl’s Arizona State Credit Union Lighthouse Uniform Co. Barefoot Athletics MaxxForce BF Goodrich Donny McCampbell Boulder Rural Firefighters Metro Paramedic Service, Inc. Boyle, Flagg & Seaman, Inc. Insurance Consultants N Greece CA Fire Association Brighton Professional Firefighters Association Local National Society Daughters of the American Colonists 2223 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company Catholic Health Initiatives New England Association of Fire Chiefs Central Dupage Hospital Newell Volunteer Fire Department Citizens Public Adjusters, Inc. Norwalk Firefighters Association, Inc. City of Manchester, NH Ocean Grove Exempt Firemens Association Cobra North America, LLC O’Leary’s Emporium Cross Creek Television Productions Paul Conway Shields Charlie Dickinson Paul Davis Charitable Fund Inc. e-Cycle LLC Pima County Fire Chief Association Elite Communications Group Inc. Richard S. Price Emergency Training Associates, Inc. Ride Backwards Fire Chiefs Association of Plymouth County Rockford Fire Department Firefighter Cancer Support Network Roll Giving & Paramount Community Giving Fireman’s Brew, Inc. Scottish & Irish Merchant c/o Linda Clifford Fremont Fire Fighters Local No. 1689 SERVPRO of Broomfield NW Adams County LLC GTI Federal Sheraton Ft. Lauderdale Beach Hotel Get Some L.L.C. Skaggs Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

St. Matthew Lutheran Church Central Florida Fire Academy Texas Firewalkers Centura Health Tyco Matching Gifts Program Charitable Auto Resources Inc. United Services of Des Moines Chelsea Fire Hot Sauce United Yavapai Firefighters Carol Chisholm WSM Architects, Inc. Chronicle Press Wahl Clipper Company CILS, Inc. Dean Wahl City of Alexandria Virginia Fire Department Michael Wannemacher City of New Haven Whole Foods Market - TN City of Sturgis Will-Dun Inc. City of Tempe Fire Department Wisconsin Society of Fire Service Instructors City of Urbandale The Wollenberg Foundation Cocat LLC Code 3 Red Helmet Sponsors Cokato Fire Department 1-800-BOARDUP Colorado Professional Fire Fighters 16 Mile Brewing Company, Inc. Community Durable Medical Equipment Alaska State Firefighters Association Community Health Charities of North Carolina Allstate The Giving Campaign Core Construction Alpine Cleaning & Restoration Specialist Crash Rescue Equipment Service, Inc. Ambulance Billing Services, Inc. Creative Collision & Paint Amerex CSFD Local 4511 American Fire Training Systems Danson Construction LLC American InterContinental University Dawn Siebel Inc. Gary Armour Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Bands for Brothers Denman & Company, LLP Bangs Ambulance, Inc. Dennis Compton BELFOR USA GROUP, Inc. Des Moines Association of Professional Fire Fighters Billy Croft Productions Diane Howcraft Cruise One Dream Vacations Bison Engineering, Inc. Domco Productions Boggs Environmental Consultants, Inc. Dowl HKM Buffalo Prof. Fire Fighters Assoc. Inc. - Local 282 Jack Doyle Cadence Health Draeger Safety, Inc. California Prison Authority East Texas Medical Center Cecil County Paramedic Foundation Ed M. Feld Equip. Co. Inc Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

EDI, Inc. Health Net of Arizona, Inc. Elkhart Brass Hogs & Heroes Foundation Maryland Chapter 2, Inc. Emergency Enclosures, Inc. Horseheads Fire & Rescue Company, Inc. Empire State Lawn & Landscape Husky Portable Containment Co. Exhibit Promotions Plus, Inc. IAFF Local 3066 United Yavapai Firefighters Fail-Safe Ignition Interlock of Arizona Feld Fire/Veridian Industrial Fabrics Association International Ferrara Fire Apparatus Infrared Systems Group LLC Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund ING Foundation Fire Cam International Association of Fire Fighters Local 4 Fire Chiefs Association International Association of Fire Fighters Local 0036 Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1596 Fire Station 1 Restaurant and Brewing Co. LLC Ira J. Kaufman Family Foundation Firefighter 14’er, Inc. Isle of Capri Casino, Lake Charles Fireground Supply, Inc. J & C of Geneva Corp D/B/A Ole Towne Pub & Eatery Florida Fire and Emergency Services Foundation J. Pettiecord, Inc. The Foremen’s Association Joe’s Trophies & Gifts Inc. Forest Hills High School 60th Reunion Jordan Valley Medical Center Ft. Wayne Tincaps Baseball Team K & V Homes, Inc. Gail Fowler and Family Kelly Simon Trade Shows Foxfire, LLC L. N. Curtis & Sons Frepl Labs Lancaster County Firemen’s Association, Inc. Glenn A. Gaines John Landess Gates Career Firefighters & Dispatch Association - Lawrence Park Fire Dept Training Facility Local 3792 Charles W. Lehman Geneva Professional Firefighters Association Lemont Fire Protection District Genesee Brewing Company LHN - Lutheran Hospital Ghidorzi Investments I, LLP Liberty Art Works, Inc. Gold Cross Services, Inc. Liberty KIA Billy Goldfeder Life Extension Clinics, Inc. Greece Ridge Fire Department Life Line Ambulance Service, Inc. Guns for Heroes Local 42 Community Assistance H.E.B. Maine Fire Chiefs Association Harris Corporation Marriotts Ridge High School Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Maryland Charity Campaign Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Maryland Seafood Festival Ridge Road Professional Fire-fighters Association Matapeake Elementary School Rocky Grove Volunteer Fire Department Mercy ONE Royers Computer Networks Mesirow Financial Savatech Monroe Ambulance Schuyler Belott Gary G. Nakamoto Shelter Care Christmas N.E. Assoc. of Fire Chiefs Inc., MA SOS Global Express Nashville Fire Fighters & FSEA Local 140 Southwest Firefighters Association Nashville Super Speedway Spencerport Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary New Concepts Construction Spencerport Volunteer Firemen’s Association, Inc. The New IEM, LLC Stewart, Brimner, Peters & Co, Inc. New York State Association of Fire Chiefs Eric Stoerger, National Fire Adjustment Company Next Generation Ann Terry Nisource Corporate Services Co Thaney & Associates CPA’s, P.C. Novato Fire Protection District The MGIVE Foundation, Inc. Nuclear Testing Services Jimmy L. Tidwell Old Pueblo Firefighters Assn. Total Body Health Center S.C. - Dr. Arun Mani Old Towne Pub & Eatery of Wasco Trelleborg Sealing Solutions William N. Owens Tucson Fire Foundation Perkinsville Meat Processing, INC. Tucson Medical Center Physicians Reg Medical Center Tyndall Federal Credit Union PlymoVent University of Central Missouri James E. Podolske Urbandale Firefighters Fund Potomac Electric Power Company US Falcon, Inc. Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department Utah Disaster Kleenup Prince William County Fire & Rescue Department Warren Fire Equipment, Inc. Principal Combined Fund Organization Wegmans Pro Fence Well America John Proels West Grove Fire Company Professional Firefighters of Citrus County West Valley Fire Local 2970 Progress Energy Service Company Whole Foods Market - NY Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club Worcester Fire Department Credit Union Inc. Yolo Food Systems LLC RBC Foundation Z’s Automotive Inc. Reflexite Corporation Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Patron Sponsors William Brightcliffe A-Core Inc. Matthew Brown AAA Restoration & Carpet Cleaning Robert K. Byers Air One Equipment, Inc. Cabrera Realty LLC Amenity Pro LLC Cafe Rio Inc. American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company Camden County Fire Chiefs & Fire Officers Association Justin Arnold Campos Engineering, Inc. Manuel J. Arroyo Carmestro’s Restaurant Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Carroll Stream Professional Fire Fighters Association ASWN Construction Management, LLC Harry Carter Asphalt Paving & Supply John Caulfield Avalon Petroleum Company Michael Chiaramonte Michael Avila Chili Fire Department, Inc. Baird Foundation, Inc. Churchville Fire Equipment Corp. Bangs Funeral Home Cinnaminson Fire Department Inc. Chuck Bare City of Norwalk Kevin Barnes Clearwater Fire Rescue Honor Guard Lee Barnes Erik Cleland Gerald Barrett Cliff Castle Casino William J. Beaudoin Eileen Coglianese Brian T. Bennett Wayne R. Colburn Bentwinds Golf and Country Club Gary Cole Berkeley Fire Fighters Association, Local 1227, I.A.F.F. Collier Prof. Firefighters/Paramedics ISFF Local 2396 Biddeford Savings INC Big Four Distributing Inc. Concept Masonry Board Up Inc. Corkill Insurance Agency, Inc. Boehm-David Trust Coughlin & Gerhart, L.L.P. Mark A. Boggs Kathy Coulombe Bouchard Insurance, Inc. CR England Robin Brabb Crafton Hills College Foundation Breathe N Flow Yoga P. J. Crance Thomas Breen Jim Critchley Gregory R. Bridges Ruth Crotts Robert Briese Current Fire Protection, Inc. Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

CYFD Firefighters Charities, Inc. Foster Coach Sales, Inc. Damage Control, Inc. Fremont Hotel Operating Company, LLC Catherine DeFlumere Friendship Fire Association Chandler Dektas Fully Involved, LLC Mark Derwent G&W Diesel Service, Inc. Des Moines Scheels All Sports Scott A. Garrison Robert Dexler Gary Knippen, Senior Resources, Ltd. Richard Dickinson GBW Associates LLC Digital Financial Group General Teamsters Local 959 Justin Dillmann Geoffrey Martel, Liberty Mutual Discount Tire Service Center Georgia Fallen Firefighters Foundation DJOOS, INC. DBA Uncle Joe’s Grill and Sports Bar Georgia Fire Investigators Association Ed Donachy Glenview Professional Firefighters Association - Robert A. Dornan Local 4186 Alvina Drennan Goat Farmers 01/77 DuBois Volunteer Fire Department Goins, Underkofler, Crawford and Langdon Henry Dunlap Golden State Fire Apparatus, Inc. Durham Highway Fire Protection Association Inc. Mark Grabowski Prudence B. Duross Greater Cincinnati Airport Firefighters IAFF Local 2438 Eastern Mechanical, Inc. Greece Uniformed Fire Officers Assoc. Emergency Radio Service, Inc. Guest Services, Inc. Cheryl Emoto H.R.W., Inc. ESO Solutions Shannon L. Haeck ESSI Midwest, Inc. Laura Haiden Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Paul Hannemann Fire Research Corporation Debbie Hanson Fire Service Safety Testing Tina Hauk Fire Tech & Safety of New England, Inc. Hayward Fire Chief’s Association Firefighters Credit Union Jody Henry FirePrints.com Thomas Herbert Fireside Grill Hillcrest Fire Company First In, Inc. Hoagland Volunteer Fire Co. Inc. Five Star Distributing, Inc. Hobart Jaycees Floyd Truck Maintenance The Holland Grill Company Fort Wayne Professional Fire Fighters Local #124 Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Hollywood Casino Perryville Natalie Le Blanc Honorable Sculptures Inc. Life Star Rescue Inc. Cheryl Horvath Limerick Fire Company Samuel Huey Donald Linneman Hughes Distribution Lisle Teens with Character Sean Hunt Logan Township United Fire Department Huntertown Volunteer Fire Department Inc. LT Restaurants, LLC Christopher Hurlbutt Lyberger’s Car & Truck Sales LLC ICS Toolbox LLC Colton MacDonald Independent Forensic Investigations Corp. Madison County Fireman’s Association Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association Maine Fire Company No 1 Integrated Computer Systems Make the Turn Charter International Association of Firefighters Local 4770 Manoa Fire Co. International Association of Firefighters - Marketing Graphics & Promotional Advertising Local 709 - NY Marks Nelson Vohland Campbell Radetic LLC International Association of Firefighters Local No. 83 Marriott International Fire Protection Iron Warriors MC, North Central Minnesota Thomas Marshall The Ironman Foundation, Inc. Jarian Martinez J&M Affiliated Businesses, Inc. Nathalie Matz Charles W. Jaster Jeffrey R. May Todd Jensen Colleen Mazzaferro and Friends Jim Click Nissan Jennifer A. McClelland Joe Meath & EMS Charts Scott E. McCollum Andrea F. Johnson Robert McDonald Martha Johnson McDonald’s Corporation Carol Jones Kieran P. McGarry Louis Jones John McGrath Kern County Fire Fighters Union, Inc. Kristy McKinney Ketchum Sunvalley Volunteer Association, Inc. Ashley Meehan Keystone Chapter Fire Service Instructors Maura Melody Jordan Kingsgate Merck Partnership for Giving Richard G. Langdon MileStone Bank James Larsen Jerry L. Miller Scott Layden Miller Fireclay Associates, LLC Layton Fire Fighters Association Kirsten Monigold Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Monroe County Fire Chiefs Association Inc. Providence Fire Department Monroe Extinguisher PSEG Power of Giving Campaign Monroeville Fire Show Public Risk Underwriters of Indiana, Inc. Montgomery Township Board of Supervisors Eric Quinney Joyce Moore R. Jones Collision Repair, Inc. Mountain America Credit Union Red Knights Chapter Maryland One Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Red Knights New Hampshire Chapter 5 Jeffrey Nagel Grant Reeves National Fire Academy Alumni Association Richardson Citizen Fire Academy Alumni Association, Todd Neal Inc. New York Islanders Hockey Club William Rickman Newton’s Fire & Safety Equipment, Inc. River Edge Fire Department Nicor Riverside Community College Noonan Bar & Grill Norman B. Robbins Norcomm Public Safety Comm Inc. Robert Pruitt DBA Certified Pest Control Helge Nordtveit Brent Robertson Northeast Area Association of State Foresters Michael Robertson Northern Illinois Chapter - National Fire Sprinkler Rochester Fire Fighters Association Local 1071 Assoc. Rick Roe Gary Nuckols Rosemont Copper Orthopaedic Specialists Ross Equipment Company, Inc. Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper & Gilbert, LTD. Dan Routson P. S. Enterprise Lance Routson The Pantagraph RPFFA Members Parkland Fire Company Rural Deltana Volunteer Fire Department Larry E. Partusch Mark Salafia Pearson Anthony Saler Jerome Pelletier Salt Lake County Firefighters Officers Association Donnie L. Perry Reed G. Scharman PHI, Inc. SCI Police and Firemen’s Insurance Association Kimberly Scott Potwin Volunteer Fire Department Sidney Lex Felker, P.C. Powdersize Inc. Security Mutual Insurance Company Professional Emergency Physicians, Inc. Sedona Financial & Insurance Services Inc. Protint LLC Seeler Smith & Associates, Inc. Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Sigma Nu-Rochester Fraternity University of Wyoming Bruce D. Smith Uno Restaurants, LLC South Holland Fire Department Valley Fire Protection Systems LLC SRQ Subs LLC John Van Benschoten St. Andrew United Methodist Church Vehicle Lighting Solutions, Inc. St. George’s Anglican Church Women Versailles Christian Church John T. Steel W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. Steel Dynamics, Inc. Walgreens Strategic Enterprise Technology, Inc. Walker Fire Department Stratford Firefighters Local 998 Wall Fire Co. 1 Strypes Plus More, Inc. Stephen Watkins Heather Stump William Webb Sunlakes Firefighter Emergency Relief Fund Wells Branch Fire Association The Tatitlek Corporation Gary West Taylored Restoration Services, Inc. West Alexandria Firemen’s Association, Inc. TDIndustries Alan Westfield Temco Westminster IAFF 2889 Tenet Chuck Whitlow Texarkana Firefighters Assoc. Local #367 Bobby R. Williams Texas Citizens Fire Academy Alumni Assn. Brian R. Williams TinMan Heating & Cooling Inc. Donald A. Wood TJX Companies Wood River Fire & Rescue Firefighters Tomarco Contractor Specialties, Inc. Woodstock Fire/Rescue District Town of Waukesha Fire Department Tim Wren Tubac Fire District XS Lighting LLC Tucson Jumping Beans LLC Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe Udelhoven Oilfield System Services, Inc. York County Chiefs Association Uinta County Fire Protection Kenneth Zacard Elisabeth Underwood George H. Zboril Union Fire Co. and Rescue Squad, Inc. Deborah Zimmerman University of Maryland-College Park Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2012 Memorial Weekend

Alexandria Fire Department, Virginia City of Los Angeles Fire Department, California

Larson Allen City of Raleigh Fire Department, North Carolina

Anne Arundel Alarmers, Maryland Clinton Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland

Anne Arundel County Fire Department, Maryland Congressional Fire Services Institute

BWI Airport Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local Connecticut Statewide Honor Guard 1742, Maryland Melissa Crabbs, Mount Saint Mary’s University Baltimore County Fire Department, Maryland Larry Curl Baltimore-Washington International Airport Authority Daughters of Charity, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Valerie Benson, USFA Maryland

Bergen County (NJ) Fire Academy-IAFF Local 3500 Delaware Volunteer Fireman’s Association

Box 234 Association, Baltimore County, Maryland Charlie Dickinson

Branchville Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland District of Columbia Fire & Emergency Medical Services Brandon Fire Department, Vermont District of Columbia Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Burlington County (NJ) Firefighters Local 36

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection District of Columbia Retired Fire Fighters Association Local 2881 Eden Volunteer Fire Company, Lancaster County, Camden County Emerald Society, New Jersey Pennsylvania

Canteen 1, Independent Hose Company, Frederick, Ron Face, USFA Maryland Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, Virginia Canteen 1, Prince George’s County, Maryland Federation of Fire Chaplains Canteen 22, Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, Virginia Frederick County Commissioners, Maryland

Central Alarmers of Baltimore County, Maryland Frederick County Department of Fire and Rescue, Maryland Chicago Fire Department, Illinois Frederick County Firefighters Association, IAFF Local Chronicle Press 3666, Maryland

City of Clearwater Fire and Rescue, Florida Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, Maryland City of Frederick, Maryland Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2012 Memorial Weekend

Friendship Fire Association of Washington DC Maryland Aviation Administration

Greenridge & Associates, Maryland Maryland Emergency Management Agency

Guest Services, Inc., Maryland Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute

Henrico County Division of Fire, Virginia Maryland Fire Chiefs Association

Billy & Joy Hinton Maryland Professional Fire Fighters Association

Hillary Howard Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office

Hooksett Fire/Rescue Department, New Hampshire Maryland State Firemen’s Association

Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue, Maryland State Police Maryland Metro Chiefs – IAFC/NFPA Congressman Steny H. Hoyer and Staff, Maryland Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority International Association of Fire Chiefs Midway VFC International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1609, Frederick, Maryland MMRI RF Equipment Rental, Georgia

International Code Council Mohegan Tribal Fire Department, Connecticut

John Jay College Fire Science Association, (NYC) Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Maryland Perry Joy, USFA Morningside Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland Junior Fire Company No. 2, Inc., Maryland Motorola Solutions Kensington Maryland Volunteer Fire Department Canteen 5 Mount St. Mary’s University, Maryland

Kidde Safety National Honor Guard Commanders Association

Lancaster County Public Safety Training Center, National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Pennsylvania Maryland

Lion Apparel National Volunteer Fire Council

Manheim Township Fire Rescue, Pennsylvania Newport News Fire Department, Virginia

The Mariners’ Museum Northern Virginia Firefighters’ Emerald Society Pipe Band Marlboro Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland Patti Odbert Marriott International Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2012 Memorial Weekend

Tom Olshanski, USFA Barry Thoma, USFA

Omni Corporation Town of Emmitsburg, Maryland

PBI Corporation Troy Fire Department, Michigan

Penn Township Fire Department USDA Forest Service

Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, Union Fire Co. No. 1 of Carlisle, Pennsylvania Maryland United Communities Volunteer Fire Department Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue, Virginia United States Capitol Police

Public Safety Training Center, Pennsylvania United States Fire Administration

Red Helmets Ride Committee Vermont Fire Prevention Division

Rockingham County Department of Fire and Rescue, Victor Fire Department and the Red Knights Virginia Motorcycle Club

S & W Construction, Maryland Vigilant Hose Company, Maryland

Safeware, Inc. Volunteer and Combination Officers Section IAFC

San Bernardino National Forest, USFS, California Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority

Smithfield Fire Department, Rhode Island Steve Watkins, Omni Corporation

Spotsylvania County, Department of Fire, Rescue and Michael Wells, USFA Emergency Management Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, Maryland STARTECH International Security Smiley White, USFA Dave Statter, Virginia The Whitestone Group Summit Fire Department, New Jersey Wilmington Fire Department, Delaware Tampa Fire/Rescue, Florida Wyndham Gettysburg

…and hundreds of others who have helped in so many ways.

Special thanks to the members of the fire service who assisted and served as family escorts and the honor guard units that participated in the Memorial Weekend programs. Special thanks to our survivors who return each year and assist with Memorial Weekend activities. Staff and Contractors

A special thank you to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation staff and contractors who work tirelessly throughout the year to assist and support the families and coworkers of fallen firefighters. Staff Beverly Donlon Barbara King Chief Ronald Siarnicki Lissette Garcia James Markel Victor Stagnaro Cathy Hedrick Jenni McClelland Pat Stonaker Rose Hoepfl Crystal Mort Jeanne Tobia Linda Hurley Eric Nagle Judith Whitlow Charles Jaster Rebecca Nusbaum Eileen Winston

Contractors

Robbie Adler-Tapia Art Currier Steve Kimple Kevin Roche Steve Austin Vincent Curry Sylvia Lantz Sonya Roth Samantha Bare Richard Darby Theresa Lloyd Gordon Routley Ian Bennett Amy de Boinville Sandi Lutz Royers Computer Richard Best Charlie Dickinson Richard Marinucci Networks Ben Blankenship Emergency Services Institute Brooks Martin S2 Solutions Vincent Brennan FACETS Rick Mason Robert Shilling Jeff Callaway Robert Franklin Danny McDonough Dawn Siebel Nick Caputo Greg Geist John McGrath Dave Statter Michael Chiaramonte Stan Gibson Marjean Meyer Stone Production Chronicle Press Dr. Richard Gist Joe Minogue Stonehouse Media Donna Clark Greg Guise Molly Natchipolsky Susan Taylor Bob Colameta Eric Hagman Jerry Naylis Tim Taylor Greg W. Collier William Hinton Paul Nelson Vickie Taylor Coolwater Film & Video Amanda Hurlbutt Michael Petroff Sonja Thomson Comfort Zone Camps Tricia Hurlbutt Robin Pilkerton Vansant Creations Henry Costo Innovative Concepts Phoenix Society for Joddie Walker Crosscreek Television Robert Jacobs Burn Survivors Patricia J. Watson Productions Danny Jarboe Brett Pollock Mark Wessel Jim Cubbage Johns Hopkins University Vicky Pritchett Annie Woodall Larry Curl Ron Kanterman John Proels Jenny Woodall Cumberland Valley Hannah Kelly Kevin Quinn Darlene Woodhurst Volunteer Fire Association Dr. JoEllen Kelly Lew Raeder Dr. Frank Zieziula

Special thanks to all of the fire service members who serve as State Advocates for the Everyone Goes Home® program. he true legacy of the individuals whom we honor for making the ultimate T sacrifice lives in the minds and hearts of each of us. It is there to be shared, to be nurtured, and to be protected, so that it may one day be passed on to another. Protect their memories well. Share in a good-hearted laugh as we remember the personality, vitality and spirit of these individuals. And, as we gather here in Emmitsburg each year, go forth with those memories. Make them a part of your day-to-day life and share them until the day comes, a year from now, when we will all meet here again. — Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki, Executive Director National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Charolette R. Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Charolette R. Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D.

Boley • Jeffrey S. Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis Boley • Jeffrey S. Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis

James Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott James Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott

T. Davis • David L. Eason • Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E. T. Davis • David L. Eason • Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E.

Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller III • James M. Hall Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller III • James M. Hall

Charolette R. Charolette R. • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • Adair • Glenn L. Allen • Adair • Glenn L. Allen •

William F. Hopman • David Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger William F. Hopman • David Steve Auch • Gregory S. Baker • Richard Leo S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Boley • Jeffrey S. Barbour • Christian D. Beaston Jr. • Randy D. Boley • Jeffrey S. Jr. • Chip A. Imker Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. • Kyle Kenneth King • Jr. • Chip A. Imker Bowen • Andrew K. Boyt • Henry “Jay” Branscum • Joshua O. • Kyle Kenneth King • Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis James Burch • Paul J. Cahill • Jacob Anthony Carter • Dennis James Joseph A. “Joey” King Jr. • Derek Joseph A. “Joey” King Jr. • Derek Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Cauthen • Leslie L. Clark • Jeffrey Alan Cocke • Stephen R. Cox • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott T. Davis • David L. Eason • Vincent J. Cruz • Daniel C. Dare • Jon D. Davies Sr. • Scott T. Davis • David L. Eason • Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E. Jarrett T. Eleam • Michael Paul Esposito • Mark G. Falkenhan • George Wendell Fisher III • Charles E.

• John J. Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller Lackovic Jr. • John J. Foster • Harold F. Frey • Brett L. Fulton • Gaston A. Gagne III • Larry C. Gressett Sr. • Matthew M. Hadaller Lackovic Jr. III • James M. Hall • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • III • James M. Hall • Caleb Nathanael Hamm • Patrick B. Hannon • Gregory Leon Harris • Trampus S Haskvitz • • Donald William F. Hopman • David S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Jr. • Chip A. Imker • Kyle Kenneth King • Joseph A. “Joey” R. Lam • • Donald William F. Hopman • David S. Howell • David J. Hunsinger Jr. • Chip A. Imker • Kyle Kenneth King • Joseph A. “Joey” R. Lam • King Jr. • Derek Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle • John J. Lackovic Jr. • Donald R. Lam • Thomas J. “Todd” Lange • King Jr. • Derek Kozorosky • Todd W. Krodle • John J. Lackovic Jr. • Donald R. Lam • Thomas J. “Todd” Lange • Thomas J. “Todd” Thomas J. “Todd” Elias Macias-Jaquéz • Travis L. Miller • Larry G. Nelson • Terrell G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Johnny L. Norton • Elias Macias-Jaquéz • Travis L. Miller • Larry G. Nelson • Terrell G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris Scott Osenenko • Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris Lange • Elias Lange • Elias K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E.

Macias-Jaquéz Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas M. Shields • • Travis L. Macias-Jaquéz Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas M. Shields • • Travis L. Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Miller • Larry G. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Nelson • Terrell Miller • Larry G. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Nelson • Terrell Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • G. Nielsen Sr. • Jim Niles • Waldner • William George Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael Waldner • William George Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Johnny L. Norton • Scott Osenenko • Jonathan C. W. Young Jonathan C. W. Young

Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez Richard E. Paul • Warren J. Payne • Vincent A. Perez

• Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G. • Christopher Joseph Peterson • Chris K. Pham • Remy H. Pochelon • Keith G. Rankin • Garet G.

Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas Rasmussen • Thomas V. Regan • David E. Remington Sr. • James Michael Rice • Ronald D. Ruprecht • Corey R. Shaw • Thomas

M. Shields • Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert M. Shields • Gregory Mack Simmons • Charles Victor “Sparky” Sparks • Edward N. Steffy • Christopher T. Stock • Robert

J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Waldner • William George J. Tieche Sr. • Kevin E. Townes Sr. • Anthony “Tony” Valerio • James L. von Roden • Jacob Paul Waldner • William George

Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Jonathan C. W. Young Waldner • Robert Dean Watts • Michael C. Webb • Robin E. West • Timothy Ray White • Joshua J. Wilkes • Jonathan C. W. Young October 6-7, 2012 October Memorial Weekend Memorial National Fallen Firefighters Fallen National

Remembering National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 2012 ® Post Office Drawer 498 Office Drawer Post Emmitsburg, MarylandEmmitsburg, 21727 301.447.1365 • 301.447.1645 fax www.firehero.org • [email protected] • www.firehero.org National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Firefighters Fallen National