Remembering ver in Our Hea Fore rts ® National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 2015 ®

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Post Office Drawer 498 National Fallen Firefighters Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727 Memorial Weekend 301.447.1365 • 301.447.1645 fax www.firehero.org • [email protected] October 3-4, 2015 matt Ambelas • David Wilbur Anderson • Thomas Araguz III • Samir P. “Sam” Ashmar • matt Ambelas • David Wilbur Anderson • Thomas Araguz III • Samir P. “Sam” Ashmar •

Gregory D. Barnas • Jeffery Edward Bayless • Kevin L. Bell • James E. Bethea • Joseph Gregory D. Barnas • Jeffery Edward Bayless • Kevin L. Bell • James E. Bethea • Joseph

Edward Bove III • Kevin J. Bristol • Bruce Britt • John M. Burns • Jerry Campbell • Paul S. Edward Bove III • Kevin J. Bristol • Bruce Britt • John M. Burns • Jerry Campbell • Paul S.

Cash • Douglas J. Casson • Dennis A. Channell • Richard L. Choate • Joyce M. Craig • Cash • Douglas J. Casson • Dennis A. Channell • Richard L. Choate • Joyce M. Craig •

James A. Dickman • Ricky W. Doub • Ted F. Drake • Fred Edwards • Hugh B. Ferguson James A. Dickman • Ricky W. Doub • Ted F. Drake • Fred Edwards • Hugh B. Ferguson

III • David P. Fiori • Kellen A. Fleming • Robert William “Bob” Fogle III • Jonathan E. III • David P. Fiori • Kellen A. Fleming • Robert William “Bob” Fogle III • Jonathan E.

French • Donovan Artie Garcia Jr. • Michael Dale “Mikey” Garrett • Charles Edward French • Donovan Artie Garcia Jr. • Michael Dale “Mikey” Garrett • Charles Edward

Goff • Matthew Goodnature • Daniel David Groover • John Derek Gupton • Ramon Goff • Matthew Goodnature • Daniel David Groover • John Derek Gupton • Ramon

Edward “Ray” Hain • Homer W. Harrell Jr. • Jacob T. Harrell • Edward “Ray” Hain • Homer W. Harrell Jr. • Jacob T. Harrell • llen Fi llen Fi Fa re Dwight Reid Hilton • Ross Fa re E. Huffer • Geoffrey Hunt • Dwight Reid Hilton • Ross l f E. Huffer • Geoffrey Hunt l f a ig a ig n h n h • Christopher J. Hunter • JB Hutton Jr. • Wayne Christopher J. Hunter • JB Hutton Jr. • Wayne o t o t i i e e t t r r O’neal Jeffers • Malcolm a W. Jenkins • Eddie J. O’neal Jeffers • Malcolm a W. Jenkins • Eddie J. s s

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Johnson Jr. • Michael- Ryan Robert Crosby Johnson Jr. • Michael- ★ Ryan Robert Crosby M M

Kennedy • Steven J. e d Knaus • James Joseph Kennedy • Steven J. Knaus e d • James Joseph Knesek m n m n o e o e k k Knesek Sr. • Michael C. r e Kucsma Jr. • Thomas Sr. • Michael C. Kucsma r e Jr. • Thomas Gerald Lee • ia e ia e l W l W Gerald Lee • Melvin R. Loder  • Gus Losleben • Stephen Melvin R. Loder • Gus Losleben  • Stephen A. Machcinski •

A. Machcinski • Richard L. Marchman • Donald “Pete” Martin Richard L. Marchman • Donald “Pete” Martin • S. Brad McCoy

• S. Brad McCoy • John C. “Mac” McDonald • Robert C. Meyer • James Curtis Middlebrook • John C. “Mac” McDonald • Robert C. Meyer • James Curtis Middlebrook • David W.

• David W. Millett • Bobby Mollere • Jeffrey Bruce Newland • Billy G. Norris Sr. • Frank L. Millett • Bobby Mollere • Jeffrey Bruce Newland • Billy G. Norris Sr. • Frank L. Obremski

Obremski • Kevin J. Ollier • Cosmo Paris • Darrell D. Parker • Jamie Angelo Peite • Randall • Kevin J. Ollier • Cosmo Paris • Darrell D. Parker • Jamie Angelo Peite • Randall R.

R. Pogue • James Thomas “Tom” Rhamey • Christi M. Rodgers • Joseph Sanford Jr. • Pogue • James Thomas “Tom” Rhamey • Christi M. Rodgers • Joseph Sanford Jr. •

Fidel G. Serrano Jr. • Bruce A. Stayner • Tom D. Stevens Sr. • Christ K. Swan • W. Scott Fidel G. Serrano Jr. • Bruce A. Stayner • Tom D. Stevens Sr. • Christ K. Swan • W. Scott

Tanksley • Robert B. Thomas • Arthur E. Treon • George D. Underwood • Edward J. Tanksley • Robert B. Thomas • Arthur E. Treon • George D. Underwood • Edward J.

Walsh Jr • Robert “Bud” Webster • Richard D. Weisse Sr. • E. Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel • Allen R. Walsh Jr • Robert “Bud” Webster • Richard D. Weisse Sr. • E. Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel • Allen R.

Westby • William “Will” Wiita • James C. Wilber • Ricky L. Winkles Sr. • James J. Woods Westby • William “Will” Wiita • James C. Wilber • Ricky L. Winkles Sr. • James J. Woods The Firefighter’s Pledge I promise concern for others. A willingness to help all those in need. I promise courage—courage to face and conquer my fears. Courage to share and endure the ordeal of those who need me. I promise strength—strength of heart to bear whatever burdens might be placed upon me. Strength of body to deliver to safety all those placed within my care. I promise the wisdom to lead, the compassion to comfort, and the love to serve unselfishly whenever I am called.

—Author Unknown 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 Wayne O’neal Jeffers South Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department – Alabama Volunteer Captain Date of Death: March 16, 2014 Age: 64

f I had to describe Wayne Jeffers in one He was a deacon and a member of the choir I sentence I would say, “Everything at Friendship Baptist Church in Grady, he did, he did wholeheartedly.” There Alabama. was no in between when it came to what he believed in or loved. Wayne wore many hats, but by far his proudest and most treasured He was a former Marine who was the one of “Papa” to his 11 fought in Vietnam. He was grandchildren. As big a man one of the top salesmen in his as Wayne was, his heart was retail sales career. He mar- bigger. If any of his grandkids ried, adopted a daughter, were around, you could see and later became the father what a “softie” he was. They of another little girl. Over all were dear to his heart, the years, Wayne’s hobbies, and you could see the pride loves, and career changed, when he talked about them. but his passion for what he was doing did not change. Wayne meant a lot to many people. Whether he was the Wayne found his best friend man that came when the res- and soul mate, Lisa, and in cue was called to help in the 1998 they were married. He community, deacon, husband, adopted and raised her children or simply Papa, we all suffered as his own. Natasha, Johnathan, a great loss when he passed. We and Christopher are proud to call all have comfort in knowing where him “Dad.” Wayne will spend his eternity. Wayne no doubt loved God and would tell Wayne was captain and safety officer of anyone and everyone about his Lord. You the South Montgomery County Volunteer could see in his actions what God was doing in Fire Department and an EMT at Haynes Ambulance. his life. Wayne passed on March 16, 2014, at work. Remembering Jeffery Edward Bayless Anchorage Fire Department – Alaska Career Senior Captain Date of Death: March 7, 2014 Age: 51

eff Bayless, a fourth generation Alaskan, progressed up the fire service ranks to senior J grew up in Copper Center near the captain. Jeff served a series of stations as small regional hub, Glennallen. From senior captain, pouring his heart into childhood on, he had countless each one. adventures in the wilderness. Over his lifetime he saved As a teenager, Jeff decided that countless lives. As an older what mattered most to him was teenager, Jeff and his buddy helping people. He trained as happened upon a flash flood an EMT and earned a bach- in the Yukon that swept elor’s degree from Alaska vehicles off the road. Using Bible College in Glennallen. their wilderness savvy, they After graduation, he roped up and rescued every attended the Paramedic person. Decades ago, unbe- Training Program at knownst to him, his casual Oregon Health Sciences words of encouragement University, where he kept a young woman from met his wife, Gail. They fulfilling her secret intention were married for almost of suicide, and she went on 26 years. to live a satisfying life. Early one morning as an Anchorage Jeff began his career practic- paramedic, Jeff and his partner ing paramedicine in Tillamook, drove by an unreported apart- Oregon, with a hospital-based ment house arson fire that blocked service. There he was honed into a all the exits. They called it in and, skilled, intuitive, cutting-edge para- using a ladder and blanket, began res- medic. He loved the work. While in cuing the residents. He saved several people Tillamook, he became an RN and then returned from rivers, once as part of AFD’s whitewater to Alaska, working in ICU and volunteering as a para- rescue team in a wild adventure that earned them an medic with the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. His next American Red Cross Wilderness Rescue Award. step was EMS training coordinator, after which Jeff finally achieved his dream of being a paramedic with the Jeff collapsed and died suddenly toward the end of a Anchorage Fire Department. strenuous training exercise, closing out a fruitful life that had been enriched by his faith in God. He was 51. He is Eventually, AFD’s EMS and fire services integrated, and survived by his wife, mother, fathers, sisters, brothers, he became a firefighter. Jeff found that he loved firefight- and grandfather. He spent his life simply doing what he ing and turned his hunger for learning in that direction loved, completely engaged, lost in the moment. Without also. Over the years he certified in numerous specialties any consciousness of the impact his own life was hav- in EMS and fire and enjoyed teaching many of them. He ing, he left behind a great legacy of life, encouragement, accomplishments, and friendship. Remembering Bobby Mollere Hellsgate Fire Department – Arizona Career Lieutenant Date of Death: March 8, 2014 Age: 61

obert Joseph “Bobby” Mollere was born Bobby was a volunteer firefighter with the R on January 4, 1953, in Phoenix, Hellsgate Fire Department in Star Valley, Arizona, to Wrigley and Frieda Mollere. Arizona. He volunteered countless hours and also earned his certifications as He graduated from Phoenix an EMT, wildland firefighter, struc- Central High School and tural firefighter, and engineer. But spent one year of ROTC at he was most loved by his fellow Arizona State University. firefighters for his joy, delight- Bobby worked as a plumber ful sense of humor, endless and pipefitter with Piping analysis, and unending will- Systems for 30 years. ingness to help—whether by welding a coworker’s metal Bobby was a certified fence or showing a coworker scuba diver and loved how to repair her car. aviation. He owned a small Cessna and held a Bobby Mollere suffered a pilot’s license for 35 years. fatal heart attack during Bobby and his wife Willie wildland training in Payson, enjoyed rescuing baby Arizona, on March 8, 2014. birds and releasing them back to nature. They spent Bobby’s had two sisters who many weekends together at preceded him in death. He is sur- their cabin located northeast of vived by his wife, Willie Mollere, Payson, Arizona. of 18 years. They had no children. Remembering Dennis A. Channell Poyen Fire Department – Arkansas Volunteer Captain Date of Death: February 10, 2014 Age: 55

ennis Channell was born on January 2, going to auctions, collecting coins, and was D1959, in Arkadelphia, the son an avid gardener. of Eugine and Helen McClenahan Channell. He collapsed shortly after respond- ing to an EMS call and died in the He served his community vol- line of duty on February 10, 2014. unteering as a captain with the Poyen Fire Department for Dennis is survived by his son, over 20 years. Dennis was Brody Channell, who is a full- a second generation fire- time firefighter; his daughter- man who enjoyed training in-law, Courtney Channell; younger firefighters and and two grandchildren, passing along the experi- Collin James and Kylee ences he had. Aaron Channell. He was a devoted father and papaw. Dennis was employed as He is also survived by his a supervisor at Allen Gate brother, David Channell; Panel. He served on the sisters, Ann Crouse, Geanie community park board, Channell, and Penny (Rick) where he organized the com- Ashley; close family friends, munity 4th of July event for Stella Channell and Doyle many years. He was a mem- Lishbrook; and a host of nieces ber of Moose Lodge #2365 and and nephews. He was preceded was one of the founders of the in death by his parents, his brother, Oak Tree Club. Over the years, he Michael Channell, and his brother-in- coached youth baseball. He enjoyed law, John Wesley Crouse. Remembering Jacob T. Harrell Arkansas Forestry Commission – Arkansas Career Pilot Date of Death: January 31, 2014 Age: 33

acob Thomas Harrell, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, In addition to his parents, Jake is survived by his wife, J was born on November 25, 1980, to Rick Rev. Jaime Fish Harrell; a son, Brayden Harrell; and Pam Harrell. He was a graduate of his sister, Rev. Ashley Duff, and her hus- Sylvan Hills High School and Henderson band, Rev. Ben Duff; grandmothers, University. Jake served in the 188th Doris Wingo and Ola Mae Harrell; Air National Guard out of Fort parents-in-law, Gary and Penny Smith, Arkansas for 14 years as a Fish; brother-in-law, Matthew crew chief, serving three tours Fish, and wife, Tiffany; nieces, in Operation Freedom. He Samantha and Alex; nephew, was a police officer in North Lukas; and extended family Little Rock. He was a licensed members and friends. commercial pilot with mul- tiple ratings and flew fire Jake was a gentle, caring detection for the Arkansas husband and father with Forestry Commission. a servant’s heart and a desire to serve others. He Jake was a lifelong member is remembered as someone of First Assembly North Little who cared deeply about his Rock, where he served God family, his church, and his and people faithfully, includ- community. ing the Deaf Community of Central Arkansas. Remembering JB Hutton Jr. Dermott Fire Department – Arkansas Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: October 1, 2014 Age: 77

Hutton Jr., age 77, served the Dermott to be the first one to arrive at the station when the alarm JB Volunteer Fire Department for over sounded. He was also known to rush out to a 48 years. He had a heart attack and passed fire in the wet, cold winter nights with his away in the line of duty during the 2nd shoes on, but no socks! Several of the alarm of the day on October 1, 2014. firemen remarked that he was like a Serving as assistant fire chief, father to them. he loved people, his firefighter brothers, and serving his com- JB was very involved in his munity. A self-employed tele- church. He volunteered to vision repairman/electrician drive the van when children by trade, he kept generators needed to be picked up for operating, batteries charged Vacation Bible School or if for everything from flash- the seniors needed trans- lights to the trucks and portation to any activity. made sure that the fire He was always ready to engines were kept fueled show a fire engine to the and ready to go. kids during the town festi- vals and parades. He was a In January 2015, he was post- proud fireman. humously awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Community He was well known in the Service Award. community and was some- one who would always lend a He is survived by his wife of 46 helping hand. People called him years, Shelby Hutton, two sons, two when they needed him to pull daughters, and nine grandchildren. their vehicle from a ditch with the His favorite hobby was working on his Jeep or to install a ceiling fan, or rewire antique CJ-5 Jeep. He enjoyed driving his light switches or outlets. In the summer of grandchildren and their dog around in it. 2014, one of his 88-year-old friends, a retired doctor, called him to remove a snake from the bed- His fellow firemen said the most wonderful things room in his house. He wasn’t sure how to do it, but he about him. He was always smiling and happy to do any- spread moth balls around, “flushed” the snake out, and thing that was asked of him and more. He was so full of got rid of it. We joked that he was now also the town energy and had to be doing something all the time, even snake wrangler. This was his heart: big, full of love for if it was just tinkering around in his shop. He taught the family and friends, and dedicated to firefighting until younger firemen at every opportunity and was known the end. We miss him terribly. Remembering Randall R. Pogue Oak Grove Fire District #25 – Arkansas Volunteer Chief Date of Death: February 19, 2014 Age: 49

hief Randall R. Pogue “Randy”, age 49, Randy enjoyed the opportunity to volunteer at C of the Oak Grove Fire District #25, Gravel Ridge Fire Department and North passed away on February 19, 2014, Pulaski Fire Department in Arkansas. from injuries sustained in a motor He was Pulaski County Volunteer vehicle accident while respond- Firefighter of the Year in 1995. He ing to a previous accident on started at the Oak Grove Fire February 2, 2014. District as their chief training officer. He served as fire chief Randy was born March 10, from 2003 until the day of his 1964, in Fayetteville, passing. During this time, he Tennessee, to William L. also worked for the Arkansas Pogue and Margie Betty Forestry Commission Wilkerson. Randy began as Rural Fire Protection firefighting at 17, as a program coordinator for volunteer in Harrisburg, almost 10 years, giving him Arkansas. He served in the opportunity to work the Arkansas Army Guard with most of the rural vol- during his senior year at unteer fire departments in Harrisburg High School, the state. He enjoyed coordi- where he also enjoyed play- nating their annual fire show. ing football. He went on to Randy went on to the Arkansas serve in the U.S. Air Force, con- State Police as the install shop tinuing his career as a firefighter. supervisor. He completed his training as a fire protection specialist at Chanute Air Randy was all about serving his com- Force Base, Illinois. During his career munity. Friends and family remember he went on to serve overseas at Aviano Air him as a man who never met a stranger. He Force Base, Italy, then at Nellis Air Force Base, was known as a great mentor to other firefight- Nevada, and finished his career at Little Rock Air Force ers. He loved people and gave everyone a chance. Randy Base, Arkansas. During his Air Force career, Randy was a big kid at heart, had a wicked sense of humor, and received the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force enjoyed playing pranks on friends and family. He loved Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal deer hunting and riding his motorcycle. with one Oak Leaf cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, and the Air He is survived by his wife, Veronica Villalobos-Pogue; Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon. During his fire- his children, Gregory Pogue, Josephine Pogue, Randall fighting career, he achieved certifications in Command Pogue II, and Rhonda Pogue-Smiley; his grandchildren, Crash Fire Rescue, HazMat, Wildland Fire Suppression, Robert, Davis, and Logan Smiley, and Jase Lockhart; two Certified Training Officer, DOD IFSAC Firefighter II, brothers, William “Jeff” Pogue (Elisa) of Long Island, ARFF-Driver/Operator, and Airport Firefighter. New York, and Ray Pogue of South Carolina. Remembering Ricky L. Winkles Sr. Trumann Fire Department – Arkansas Career Chief Date of Death: January 28, 2014 Age: 53

icky Lee Winkles Sr. was born still serving in this position when he passed R February 5, 1960, to Rev. Carl in the line of duty on January 28, 2014. and Shirley Winkles of Trumann, Trumann’s mayor said many times that Arkansas. He was the second of five “he loved his city,” and he did. Ricky children with his siblings, Carolyn had earned an associate degree in Winkles Qualls, Sherri Winkles fire science. He was a member Tribble, the late Patricia of the National Guard for thir- Winkles Whitsett, and Pastor teen years. He served Poinsett Randy Winkles. He lived in County, Arkansas, as an Trumann his entire life and elected justice of the peace graduated from Trumann for eight years. He worked High School in 1978. In as a reserve deputy for the March of 1981 he married Poinsett County Sheriff’s Bonnie Gean Holt; and, was Department and was a still enjoying almost thirty- certified EMT. He was a three years of marriage licensed arson investigator at the time of his passing. and was head of the search They had two sons, Ricky and rescue team for Poinsett Jr. and Jeremy, to whom he County. He had been a could not have been a better Freemason for over twenty Dad. He was a proud Pawpaw years and was a member of to Dixie, Shawn, and Kain McCormick Baptist Church in Winkles. He was a loving uncle to Trumann, Arkansas. so many nieces and nephews. When he was not serving the public, he Ricky started his career as a firefighter enjoyed deer and duck hunting, camping in 1986 when he became a volunteer for and, especially, riding his Harley Davidson the Trumann Fire Department. He became motorcycle. He was a true family man who loved a full-time firefighter at TFD in 1988 and advanced spending time with each and every one in his family. And through the ranks to become fire chief in 2004. He was he was a true friend to many. He is greatly missed! Remembering Geoffrey Hunt DynCorp International, CAL FIRE – California Contract Pilot Date of Death: October 7, 2014 Age: 62

eoffrey “Craig” Hunt died on October 7, an Eagle Scout and 1970 Male Athlete of the G 2014, honorably defending Year in Western North Carolina, where Yosemite National Park from the he attended the Asheville School. Dog Rock Fire. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Sara Craig married his college sweet- (Keenan) Hunt; devoted father heart, Sally, in 1975 when he was of Nancy Hunt and Sarah a P3 pilot, and rose to the rank Hunt Lauterbach (Cole); son of lieutenant commander. He of S. Jackson Hunt and the served in the Navy in an active late Beverly Hunt. and reserve capacity for a total of nearly two decades. An air tanker pilot with In addition to firefighting DynCorp in California and teaching, Craig loved that provided firefight- flying, golfing, fishing, hik- ing support to Cal Fire, ing, scuba diving, math and Craig also taught chem- sciences, tutoring, and dogs. istry at the University of California, Santa Cruz. A Survivors also include his man of the outdoors, he father, S. Jackson; two broth- was a former Navy lieuten- ers, Stuart and Howard Hunt; ant commander and had been a sister, Debbie Hunt Danner; a firefighting pilot for 13 years. and a loving fan club of nieces He held a B.S from Wittenberg and nephews. University, an M.S. in biochemis- try from the University of California The loss of Craig will forever leave a Santa Cruz, and an MBA from the hole in the hearts of everyone he touched. University of Southern California. Born He was a loving husband, father, brother, October 14, 1951, in Richmond, Indiana, he was mentor, educator, and to all, he was a friend. Remembering Richard L. Marchman Indian Peaks Fire Protection District – Colorado Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: July 9, 2014 Age: 66

ichard “Dick” Marchman was born was an amateur radio operator (KF0LA) for R August 25, 1947, to Marguerite and 50 years. He was instrumental in transfer- Fred K. Marchman. After graduating ring a used ambulance from Allenspark valedictorian from Gulf High School Fire Department to Indian Peaks Fire in 1965, Dick attended the home Protection District for the sale price of the Gators, the University of of $1, which was a huge addition Florida. Shortly after, he entered to the service of that department. the United States Air Force and Dick was an amateur photogra- served from 1967-1973. The pher (wildlife mostly), and he majority of his service was often documented emergency spent at Lowry Air Force scenes for training purposes. Base in Denver as a technical instructor. Dick helped to start Dick retired from the Astral Communications in Allenspark Fire Department 1977. Dick’s main contribution in August of 2013 after 24 years was developing the technical of service. He continued with work for two-way radios and Indian Peaks Fire Protection emergency phone systems in District until his death on the Rocky Mountain canyons. July 9, 2014. That day, he helped rescue an injured hiker Dick became a member of in the Brainard Lake Recreation the Allenspark Fire Protection Area. He helped to land a res- District in August of 1989. He cue helicopter, one of his favorite worked as a radio technician with things to do. On the hike back down Astral Communications and served the mountain, he looked at the beau- as a volunteer and radio tech for the tiful Colorado mountain view and said, fire department. He donated hundreds of “I never get tired of this view.” He passed hours of time installing and maintaining the away on the mountain, surrounded by friends radios for the department. He trained and became and firefighters in a place he loved and having just a Firefighter I and II in July 1995. He served as assistant helped to rescue someone. chief of the Allenspark Department for several years and then as a fire officer and EMT basic. He was totally Dick touched the lives of so many people. He is sur- committed to the fire department, responding to almost vived by Susan Harford Marchman, his wife of 25 years; all calls 24/7. He became a member of the Indian Peaks brother, Fred (Gail Love) Marchman; daughter, Nikki Fire Department in 1999, serving as a fire officer and (Jeremy) Dean; two grandsons, Connor and Logan chief medical officer. He also spent hours fixing, main- Dean; and nephews Brian and Brent Marchman. We taining, and replacing radios for this department. Dick miss him every day. Remembering Kevin L. Bell Hartford Fire Department – Connecticut Career Firefighter Date of Death: October 7, 2014 Age: 48

evin Lamont Bell, 48, of Hartford, he was assigned to Engine Company 14, Tour K Connecticut, was born to Cheryl A, and in May 2013, he was assigned to Bell and Manuel Gomes on April 30, Engine Company 16, Tour A. 1966. Kevin’s last alarm was on October 7, 2014, in the line of duty. Left to cherish his legacy are his He is truly Hartford’s Bravest: longtime love and wife, Wayatte Kevin is a HERO. Statham-Bell; their adoring daughter, Racquel Bell; and Kevin graduated from Weaver their dog, Chanel. He is also High School in 1984, where survived by his mother, Cheryl he played football and ran Bell, and his father, Manuel track. He was also affiliated Gomes; brothers, Shawn with several sports leagues Bell Sr. (Kimberly) and Elliot and fraternities, notably Bell; sisters, Torraine Grimes the Hartford Flag Football (Sean) and Sharonda Bell; League, the Nelton Court aunts, Joyce Gomes Evans Basketball League, the (William), Betty Gomes Group Organization, and the Clancy (Andrew), Crystal Roughnecks Organization. Bell, Cavette Bell, Kathy He was affectionately known Napper (Henry), Debra Bell, as “DJ Kut Master B-Stro the Gloria- Smith-White (Charlie); Originator.” He was a phenom- uncles, Elliot Bell, Gregory Bell, enal DJ. Kevin’s DJ journey began and Orlando Bell (Sandra); father- at age 12. By the time he was a teen- in-law, Connelius Percy; mother-in- ager he was in a group called the Busy law, Delores Statham; brothers-in-law, Boys, and they signed to Bee Pee Records Larry Percy, James Percy, and Connelius in 1984. They released several records, nota- Percy Jr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cous- bly Funky Fresh Xmas, That’s the Flava, and Renita, ins, and friends. just to name a few. Kevin also produced several groups He was predeceased by his grandparents, Evelyn Bell and artists, including the Renegades and 4 Black Faces. and Stanley Weaver, Manual and Margaret Gomes, and For many years, he was a security guard for the Hartford beloved Preeman Faniel; his aunts, Constance Gomes- Public School System. He served as a special officer Amos, Donna Smith, and Diane Smith; and great aunts, and wrestling coach at Cheney Technical School in Pearl Smith and Mary Bell. Manchester, Connecticut. He was also employed at Mass Mutual in Enfield, Connecticut. Kevin had so many gifts, including cooking, playing drums, and his expertise with electronic devices. Kevin In 2008, Kevin began his career as a Hartford Fire recruit. had an amazing love for people and would help anyone. After graduating from the training academy, he was His knowledge of history was extraordinary. To know assigned to Engine Company 11, Tour D. In May 2012, him is to love him! Remembering David P. Fiori City of New Britain Fire Department – Connecticut Career Deputy Chief Date of Death: May 26, 2014 Age: 59

avid was a 36-year member of the New David believed that sports were the founda- DBritain Fire Department, serving tion of discipline for our youth and was as deputy chief for 22 years, until his happy to help however he could. death at age 59. David had a passion for gardening David’s passion for firefight- and cooking. He enjoyed tending ing began early in life. As a his vegetable garden and was an teen he volunteered for his outstanding cook, trying new hometown fire department, recipes and cooking for his already sure he wanted to family at home and at the fire- make it his career. After house. He was the “go to guy” high school, David enlisted for meal planning and prep- in the United States Marine aration when the firefighters Corps, spending most of hosted fundraisers. Over the his military commitment years his pasta recipes have on airbases as a member fed hundreds. David loved of fire rescue crash crews. spending time on Cape Cod After his military service, with his family. He took great David was hired as a profes- pleasure in clamming, fishing, sional firefighter and moved and kayaking the ponds and through the ranks quickly. On beaches. He enjoyed the tran- the job he was a leader, mentor, quility of the Cape and cherished teacher, and confidante to many sharing that special time with his of his colleagues. Quiet but cou- wife and children. rageous, David led by example. He encouraged others to be successful David’s family meant the world to him. and took pride in the accomplishments He was a devoted husband, brother, son, of fellow firefighters. He respected his brother and an amazing father. David took pride in his and sister firefighters, and he became one of the most marriage and in the accomplishments of his children. respected individuals in the department and the city. He was their biggest fan and would stop at nothing to help them. His thoughtfulness, determination, and In addition to his firefighting career, David volunteered playful personality will live on in their lives. countless hours coaching youth sports, where he was a mentor and role model to children and families. Many While his family was most important in his life, David of those individuals whose lives he positively impacted held a special place in his heart for his firefighting fam- still refer to him as “Coach Fiori.” David was also a big ily. The strong bonds that he forged with his brothers supporter of the New Britain High School football pro- and sisters in the department are everlasting, and the gram. He spent many Friday nights as team statistician, impact of his leadership will positively affect the depart- while also cheering on his sons playing on the field. ment for years to come. Remembering John C. “Mac” McDonald Naval District Washington Fire and Emergency Services Central Division – District of Columbia Career Battalion Chief Date of Death: May 30, 2014 Age: 54

evoted husband, father, brother, friend, ering love, support and friendship, Mac gave Dand dedicated firefighter, John C. all of himself to the very end. “Mac” McDonald was rarely called by his first name. Known as a “fire- His faith in God and energy for man’s fireman,” he was called, life were boundless. He was hard “Johnny Mac,” “Mac,” or “Mac working, hard playing, and Daddy.” nothing stopped his enthu- siasm. Outside of the fire Mac began his 40 years in the house, Mac was often found fire service as a volunteer spending time with his fam- with Stafford Volunteer Fire ily, taking his motorcycle Department, Company 2, and the love of his life, his after serving in the United wife Teresa, down the coast States Navy. It was there for a getaway, riding with that he coined the sta- comrades of Fire and Iron tion’s slogan, “Dedicated 161 MC where he served 2 Excellence,” was elected as vice president and was and served as fire chief on a charter member, pitching more than one occasion, and his joint business venture, became a life member of the The Beer Lasso, with eldest department. Serving in every daughter Katie, or cheering operational capacity, over the on youngest daughter Ashley in decades as a federal firefighter her endeavors. A humble man, he rose through the ranks at the jokester, mentor, role model, hero, Naval District of Washington Fire and always the life of the party, his Department to become battalion chief selfless dedication to serving others did in 2009, the position he held at the time of not end outside of the firehouse. He often his passing. helped others on family outings and anytime he noticed someone in need. Mac remains deeply missed One of Mac’s key traits as a leader was his ability to by the many lives he touched. remain calm in all situations. “When your leader is calm, so too are the firefighters,” colleagues recalled. He He often spoke of the National Fallen Firefighters was known throughout the fire and rescue community Memorial and the importance of its meaning. Having his as “one heck of an instructor, he just had that ability name etched in stone at a place he held in high regard, he to teach others.” Credited with saving over seven lives, would have been genuinely touched to receive such an Mac was recognized, along with his brethren, for five honor. While Mac is no longer physically present in this of those saves with the 2007 Firefighter Heroism of the life, his legacy remains in all who had the pleasure to know Year Team Award. Gifted with a calming nature, unwav- him and in the many lives he touched while here on earth. Remembering Homer W. Harrell Jr. Orange City Fire Department – Florida Career Lieutenant Date of Death: February 24, 2014 Age: 45

“ ade in Spain” was always an inside passion, helping citizens. He spent his last M running joke between a man three years as an engine company lieu- and his father. The man was Lt. Homer tenant, where he shared a wealth of William “JR” Harrell Jr. He was born information with the younger fire- at the U.S. Navy Base in Rota, fighters and many volunteers. Spain. He traveled all over the world, from Spain to Iceland, Lt. Harrell was always trying to with his parents, growing instill the passion he felt for up on different Navy bases EMS to all others he came before finally settling down in contact with and was in central Florida in 1982. the consummate instruc- tor. JR was an outstanding Growing up, he was an avid EMT/paramedic instructor baseball player throughout at Daytona State College. high school. Lt. Harrell He assembled an impres- attended Winter Park High sive collection of reference School in central Florida. books that he studied to After high school he had ensure that any questions two children, Cory and the students asked, he would Cassie. Along with his love be able to give them the cor- for his children, he found his rect answer and explain it in career passion—helping others terms that they could under- in need. stand. Lt. Harrell’s legacy is that years from now, citizens will be JR was a lifelong advocate of help- saved due to the level of instruction ing the community and providing that he passed on to his students. emergency patient care. He worked for the past 21 years in the emergency medical field Lt. Harrell was also a good friend to many peo- as a paramedic and firefighter, starting with Life Fleet ple, always helping others that needed an extra hand. JR Atlantic Ambulance for the inception of his career in was an avid sportsman, and he would enter local bass 1992. He then moved on to EVAC ambulance in Volusia fishing tournaments with his father. He also enjoyed County. In 2003, he found a home with his new family, hunting, the outdoors, and was constantly doing activi- the Orange City Fire Department. JR was a key mem- ties with his friends. He was a good bowler and had a ber of this small department, watching it grow from one love/hate relationship with the golf course. to three stations. He took charge of the developing ALS program and worked to get grants for the latest equip- He is survived by his parents, Bill and Alice Harrell; ment. He oversaw EMS as a battalion chief until the lure his children, Cory and Cassie Harrell; his sister, Tanya of getting back on the engine brought him back to his Parker; and his fiancée, Angie Paige. Remembering Jeffrey Bruce Newland North Port Fire Rescue – Florida Career Lieutenant Date of Death: April 30, 2014 Age: 50

t. Jeffrey Bruce Newland was born paramedic. He was promoted to lieutenant in L September 3, 1963, to Byron “Mike” February of 2008 and was most recently and Jane Newland and was raised with the A Shift station officer at Station 82, his brother, Brian “Jim” Newland, on North Port Boulevard. He was in Pine Island, Florida. Jeff is sur- a skilled officer and paramedic vived by his significant other, who earned an excellent repu- Beverly Ward; their son, tation for both his customer Clayton Newland; his stepson, service and his leadership in Colton Ward; and his loving the field. He received mul- nephew, Cody Newland. tiple “Phoenix Awards” for successfully resuscitating a After graduating high patient in cardiac arrest. He school, Jeff immediately was loved by his work fam- joined the United States ily and will be missed. Navy, where he served nine years active duty on Jeff grew up in Pine Island, the USS Saratoga, Naval Florida, where he learned Air Station Key West, and his love and appreciation Charleston Naval Base. for the water. He spent much He then went into the U.S. of his free time on the water Naval Reserves and was work- either riding his jet skis or ing with Naval Reserve Center kayaking. He was very involved St. Petersburg/Clearwater. He in the boys’ lives. Between help- retired with Honors from the ing coach baseball for Clayton and U.S. Naval Reserves as an Interior attending football games for Colton, Communications Specialist IC1 after he was always there supporting them. 23 years of service to our country. He was a world traveler and took trips every year. He could be found tinkering around His public service career began in Lee County, Florida, the garage on one of many projects he would have. He with Lee County EMS as a paramedic. He went to fire was never too busy to help anyone in need. He often school and began his fire career with Lehigh Acres was helping friends, neighbors, and even people stuck Fire Control and Rescue District. He then worked for on the side of the road. Jeff was the problem solving guy South Trail Fire and Rescue District, and finally settled with a strong will to do what’s right, and his integrity, in with North Port Fire Rescue in 2000 as a firefighter/ laugh, and love of life will always be missed. Remembering Christ K. Swan Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Fire Department – Georgia Career Firefighter Date of Death: January 10, 2014 Age: 57

hrist Kasseen Swan (“Chris”) was born ing emergency funds for others. He was charis- C on December 23, 1956, to the late matic and would light up a room with his James and Rosemary Swan, in Atlanta, smile. He had a trademark laughter that Georgia. Chris and his sister, Estella, was endearing and warm. were raised in a strong religious home. Like his father, who served Chris wore many hats: husband, in the United States Marine father, firefighter, mentor, chef, Corps, Chris wanted to serve comedian, coach, friend, and others and had a “burning” cheerleader. He enjoyed life desire from an early age to and considered each day a become a firefighter. gift. Chris was incredible, thoughtful, and supportive. Chris attended St. Joseph An awesome dad, he was High School in Atlanta extremely close with his and DeVry Institute of children. They spent a lot Technology, where he of time together, especially earned a degree in elec- when watching the lat- tronics and computer est action or SCIFI themed technology. He served as a movie. police officer and an EMT. His firefighting career began Chris had many interests. in 1980 when he joined the He was an avid reader who DeKalb County Fire and Rescue enjoyed a good debate. He was Department as a firefighter/EMT. a great chess player and loved Chris loved his profession and various sports. He liked working on flourished; he received many com- computers, traveling, and had a varied mendations for his valor. taste in music.

In 1985, Chris joined Lockheed Martin Fire Chris left an indelible imprint on the many lives Department, where he received numerous certifica- he touched. He showed us how to be of service to oth- tions. During his tenure at Lockheed, he served as a fire- ers, how to love unconditionally, and how to be a good fighter and fire inspector. Chris was ambitious, driven, neighbor. Chris is gone, but not forgotten. We salute and a hard worker. He was well thought of on the job. him as our hero. We admire his courage and strength His peers elected him to represent them as shop stew- and miss him dearly. ard. Chris had a strong bond with his fellow firefighters and considered them as brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife, Faith; children, Dante, Christian, Alexander, and Ashley; nieces, Bernice and Chris loved helping others. He supported many chari- Myra; other relatives and numerous friends. All our ties, but what he found most rewarding were his ran- lives have been enriched for having known Chris. He dom acts of kindness, such as purchasing groceries for has left this world a better place and will remain in our mothers in need, assisting college students, and provid- hearts forever. Rest in peace, our dear, sweet loved one! Remembering Fidel G. Serrano Jr. Chicago Fire Department – Illinois Career Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: August 26, 2012 Age: 41

idel G. Serrano, Jr. was born in Manila, Fidel Jr.’s love of chess continued throughout F Philippines, to Fidel H. Serrano Sr. his life, and recently he was honored in and Venecia G. Serrano, and his Schaumburg, Illinois, with a memorial older brother, Alan. Fidel Jr. left chess tournament, which provides behind many friends and a large scholarships, prizes, and trophies extended family of aunties, in his memory. uncles, and cousins. Fidel Jr. was a member of Our family immigrated to the United States Air Force the United States in 1987, and was stationed in New after I was diagnosed with Mexico until his honorable ovarian cancer and sought discharge. His other major treatment in America so I interest was travel, and he can be alive for my family. traveled throughout the My two sons were in grade world on his time off from school at this time. My the military and while fight with cancer proved employed by the Chicago to be the power of praying Fire Department. devoutly and maintaining faith and hope; I was able to Fidel Jr. joined the CFD as a survive. The loss of Fidel Jr. paramedic in March 2005. He has been excruciatingly painful became a firefighter in 2010 and for me and my family due to the was transferred to Truck 56 as a key role he played in helping our firefighter/paramedic. We remem- family, emotionally and financially, ber Fidel Jr. as a loving, caring son to stay in this country. I came to realize and a kind, compassionate, depend- that we have no control over life and our able, humble, and loving brother. We destiny is predetermined by our Lord. honor his legacy by remembering his talents of hard work, dedication, generosity, determination, cour- Before moving to Chicago, Fidel Jr. attended an exclu- age, and bravery. We love you, we miss you, and you’re sive Catholic boys’ grade school in Manila. He was an always being remembered in our hearts forever by Dad, active, energetic honor student. Fidel was involved in Mom, and your brother, Alan. many sports, and at an early age he developed a pas- sion for playing chess. At his first chess tournament in Eternal rest and perpetual light shines upon him. Manila, he had an opportunity to play the world grand master, Eugene Torre. Fidel Jr. left the tournament with The Serrano Family would like to thank the Chicago a trophy for his strategic chess plays. Fidel Jr. contin- Fire Department, particularly Fire Commissioner José ued his interest in chess while attending Lane Tech High Santiago and First Deputy Charles Stewart III, for School and University of Illinois. He won the Chicago their concern and support which helped our family get Public Schools General Chess Championship in 1989. through this loss of Fidel Jr. Remembering James Joseph Knesek Sr. Munster Fire Department – Indiana Career Chief Date of Death: February 8, 2014 Age: 59

hief James Joseph Knesek Sr. was out- Jim was dedicated to the residents of Munster C going and always wanted to help for 34 of his 59 years. people. Jim was a great leader and a James Knesek Sr., a lifelong resident of dedicated public servant who led Munster, Indiana, was survived by his by example and cared about his loving wife of 29 years, Julie, who men. He was a U.S. Army vet- sadly passed away just six months eran and served in Virginia as after him on August 18, 2014. a marine engineer specialist. James Knesek Sr. was the proud After working as a firefighter and loving father of James in Virginia and Wisconsin Joseph Knesek Jr.; cherished air bases, he returned to brother of Donna (Nick) Munster, working his way Krizmanic, Gerald (Andrea) up the ranks to become Knesek, Karen (Ron) Smith the town’s director of and Mark (Christine) operations. Knesek; caring brother-in- law of Sandra (Dale) Carlson Jim joined the Munster Fire and Jeanne (Don) Nadzieja; Department on November 1, devoted uncle to numerous 1979, took over the public nieces and nephews. works on July 31, 1995, and in 2005 he was named the sev- He was a basketball referee with enth chief of the Munster Fire the IHSAA and coached C.Y.O. Department. Under his direction, basketball. He was a member both departments made advance- of Indiana Volunteer Firefighters ments with equipment, technology, Association, Lake County Fire Chiefs and best practices. Jim was a graduate of Association and MABAS 24. Jim enjoyed Lewis University with a degree in fire science family trips to Siesta Key, Florida, and was a and public administration. He looked out for all of devout Catholic. Jim lived his dream in the town his men on the fire and public works department and did he loved and grew up in. what was right, never thinking of himself in the process. May 21, 1954–February 8, 2014. Remembering James Curtis Middlebrook New Carlisle Fire Department – Indiana Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: August 5, 2014 Age: 41

amie Middlebrook was born on athlete, he also mentored, coached and, with J August 2, 1973, to Robert and Carolyn his wife, raised over $30,000 for this Middlebrook. He was employed organization. through the town of New Carlisle as assistant chief of the ambu- Jamie was the strongest per- lance department. Following in son most people had ever met. his father’s footsteps, he had Among the dozens of triath- been a volunteer firefighter lons he completed, he was also for over 20 years. an Ironman.

On November 11, 1995, Jamie grew up around Jamie married his high the fire department and school sweetheart, Julie started his training while Spriggs. Jamie and Julie he was still in high school. shared a love that few expe- Throughout his career, he rience in a lifetime. If any- never stopped training. one saw them together, love His weekends were often was visible through hand spent attending firefighting holding and smiling faces. and EMS classes or educat- ing new members. He loved In 2003, Jamie was diagnosed helping others and serving with acute myeloid leukemia. He his community along with his battled this illness and endured father and fellow firefighters. chemotherapy with strength, tenac- Jamie was assistant chief and went ity and, of course, humor. His doctors on thousands of calls. He was often and nurses adored and admired him for the first to arrive on scene and among his strength of body, mind, and spirit. He the last to leave. He devoted his life to the was in remission for 11 years. health, safety and wellbeing of his community.

After his amazing triumph over cancer, he devoted Jamie died in the line of duty at a commercial fire on countless hours volunteering for the Leukemia and August 5, 2014. His legacy is a life spent well in service Lymphoma Society. He not only participated as a tri- to others. Remembering Tom D. Stevens Sr. Bright Volunteer Fire Company – Indiana Career Assistant Chief Date of Death: March 17, 2014 Age: 59

om D. Stevens Sr. was a great husband, Whenever he could, he would play soft- T father, grandfather, son, brother, and ball with his sons and two grandsons, friend. In the year 2000, Tom joined ages 18 and 12. Softball was also a the fire department. He was always big part of his life. He loved it. At helping someone; that’s the kind of 58 years old, he still pitched on man he was. He wanted to help teams where he was twice their in our community, and that’s age, and they loved him. He why he joined. Tom and our enjoyed spending time with oldest son, Tom Jr., joined his twin 1-year-old grand- the department first; later, daughters, who were his our youngest son, Mike, and little princesses. When our I joined. The department sons were growing up, he was a volunteer organiza- coached baseball, basket- tion, but that didn’t matter. ball, and was involved with Tom was always willing to whatever organization they do whatever it took to make were part of. He was always the department better. He smiling, singing, joking, loved being a fireman, and and helping. He enjoyed he put his all into it. He life! His favorite place to eat worked 12-hour shifts several was a Mexican restaurant in days a week; when he became the small town where we live; assistant chief, he went to full- he even did their maintenance time days. He took Fire 1 and so they didn’t have to pay for Fire 2 training and also became an repairs. Every chance he got, he EMT. He went on every run, days and had ice cream. Tom loved ice cream. nights. He was so committed he started having Saturday breakfasts and lunches at After he passed away, we were told by peo- the firehouse to promote camaraderie. He loved ple in the community what a wonderful, kind- to make everyone laugh, always telling jokes or playing hearted, loving, compassionate person Tom was, which tricks on someone. He created a family atmosphere at the I already knew since we were married for 39 years! He fire house and even had a fire department softball team. was a devoted family man with a heart of gold! He was He planned cookouts, Christmas parties, bonfires, and an honorable man with many friends. We love him and used any reason he could to get the families together at miss him. He will forever be in our hearts. the fire house. He always said everyone on the depart- ment had value. He could see it and respected it. Rest in peace, Tom. You’ve earned it. Remembering Jonathan E. French Glendale Fire Department – Kentucky Volunteer Lieutenant Date of Death: August 6, 2014 Age: 25

ieutenant Jonathan Eric French was born Jonathan was always the first to jump in dur- L November 1, 1988, in Leitchfield, ing his own training, and once he received Kentucky. He was the second of five his certification he was always ready children born to Jackie and Lisa to help “the new guys” learn what to French. He had a loving bond with do. He was an advocate for “better three of his four siblings, Joshua, training makes us all go home.” Heather, and Rebekah, each He trained any time there was calling him their best friend, an opportunity and would go though they had to grow a to the station any time any- little first. His other sister, one asked for more time or Katie, was stillborn, and help with anything from therefore had no chance gear to trucks. to know her big brother, Jonathan. He was the engineer for the station tanker; 2560 was his Jonathan was a Christian truck and is to this day. and was saved by the grace of God. God was a big part Jonathan was always at any of Jonathan’s life from the function or training the time he was a child. department had, as well as public safety and public edu- Jonathan attended Central cation events. He lived a simple Hardin High School in Cecilia, life and didn’t require much as Kentucky. He obtained his fire- long as you gave it your all when it fighter certification through the came to the fire service. Firefighting Kentucky Fire Commission, since fire- was a passion for Jonathan. He lived it, fighting was a passion for him. breathed it, and his life was taken doing it.

Jonathan was the lieutenant for Glendale Fire Jonathan touched the lives of many in the fire service Department at the time of his death, but firefighting had and throughout his community with his bubbly per- been a part of his life from birth. His grandfather and sonality and his dedication to his job. He will be sorely father were both volunteers at the time, so he grew up missed by all his family, the fire department family, his hanging around the station. friends, and his community. FOREVER 2503. Remembering Charles Edward Goff McQuady Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department – Kentucky Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 27, 2014 Age: 53

harles Edward Goff—loving husband, Charley tried to make as many calls as he C wonderful father, and magnificent could and help in any way needed. Being Pappaw. Charley is survived by his on the fire department was definitely a wife, Cathy; children, April and calling for him. Tyler; and grandsons, Aidan, Cade, and Cullen (who arrived Charley owned and operated his three months after Charley’s business, Charles Goff Logging, passing). He is also survived for over 30 years. He was also by his parents, two broth- a 4-H shooting sports coach ers, three sisters, and many for 14 years. Seeing the chil- nieces and nephews, as well dren succeed was a great joy as his very special friends, to him. Charley especially Aaron and Katrina. loved coaching his own children and seeing them Charley married his high both win at the state level school sweetheart. They the same year. had daughter April and son Tyler, who were his Charley loved hunting, pride and joy. He was very fishing, and just being much a family man. So when outdoors. He was not a his grandsons came along, sit around the house guy. needless to say they had their Charley had to always be on Pappaw wrapped around their the go. Charley’s greatest enjoy- little fingers. It brings us much sad- ment was letting his grandsons ness that his third grandson did not drive his old, green truck around get to know him. the farm to look for deer.

Charley was a volunteer firefighter for over Charley had a very compassionate and tender 30 years for the McQuady Volunteer Fire Department heart. He made an impact on many lives. His passing in McQuady, Kentucky. His son later joined the has changed our lives forever, but he will forever live on fire department to make runs alongside his father. in our hearts. Remembering Malcolm W. Jenkins Fern Creek Fire Department – Kentucky Career Major Date of Death: October 30, 2014 Age: 60

alcolm Jenkins believed in commu- that they could break.) He became a member M nity service. When Fern Creek of the Jefferson County Trench Team, as Fire Department recruited firefight- well as the Hazmat, and USAR Teams. ers in our rural area of the county, He was a Level 2 instructor, incident Malcolm volunteered. He was safety officer, fire inspector, rope one of a group of farmers, most technician, and large animal res- of whom were family mem- cue technician. bers. They joked that their tractors were their response Malcolm was also respon- vehicles. As a volunteer for sible for the construction 19 years, he attained the and development of the rank of captain in charge Kentucky Regional Fire for the local firehouse. Training Academy. The academy trains hundreds Malcolm loved being a of firefighters annually. The firefighter. He earned an administration building associate degree in fire sci- was dedicated in Malcolm’s ence. When applying for honor for his commitment to the career position as the training and his willingness training officer for FCFD, to help others. In his 31 years he stated to his chief that he of service to the community, wasn’t sure if he was the best Malcolm touched the lives of person for the job, as he believed everyone that wanted to be or was himself to be more of a student involved in firefighting. Thanks to than an instructor. This is where Major Jenkins, our people and train- his legacy began. Malcolm never quit ing facilities are second to none. being a student. He attended many differ- ent fire schools, as well as classes at the National Somehow, Malcolm also managed to be a good Fire Academy. He brought his knowledge back to Fern son, loving husband, caring father to three daughters, Creek to share with others. He never changed who he and a doting grandfather. His devotion and love for his was, just what he was. family was evident in all that he did. His wife always told their friends that Malcolm was her “tour guide in life.” Malcolm had a very quick mind, whether to tell a joke or He was the cornerstone of his family. solve a problem. There wasn’t anything that he couldn’t fix. There was Plan A, B and, most likely, also a Plan C for The Chief of FCFD stated that Malcolm was his “go to any situation. (Due to this ability, his wife taught their guy.” Malcolm was a teacher, family man, mentor, and a three daughters to marry a man who could fix anything firefighter. Mostly, he was a good man. Remembering Robert “Bud” Webster Glencoe Volunteer Fire Protection District – Kentucky Volunteer Chief Date of Death: May 6, 2014 Age: 64

obert “Bud” Webster was born April 19, appointed fire chief. His tireless work ethic R 1950, to Doc and Bessie Webster. He was an example to all and inspired many married the love of his life, Judith Irene new firefighters to work hard and give Moses, on February 3, 1967. They back. On July 4, 2006, Chief Webster were married for 47 years. Bud was responding to a motor vehicle and Judy had two children, a son, accident when the apparatus he Robert Glenn Webster II, and a was driving overturned, leaving daughter, Tisha Irene Webster. him critically injured. After suffering debilitating injuries Bud was a self-employed in the accident, he was never mechanic who was known able to return to active duty. by nearly everyone in the small community in After a long, hard fight, which he resided. He was Chief Robert “Bud” also known for his ability Webster passed away on to fix anything. He was a May 6, 2014, as a result great storyteller and loved of complications from his keeping everyone around accident. He was a lov- him entertained. He had an ing father, husband, and incredible sense of humor friend. He is survived by his and loved to play pranks on wife, Judy Webster; his son, all his comrades. A devoted Robert Glenn Webster II; his family man, his family was daughter, Tisha Webster; and his always his top priority and he granddaughter, Haley Webster. loved them dearly. Bud was a man of strong character and In 1994, Bud became a dedicated mem- integrity. He gave 100% to everything, ber to the Glencoe Fire-Rescue. His dedica- and his passing left a void that can never be tion and commitment to the community was second to filled in the lives of those who knew him best. He will none. In 1998, after only four years of service, Bud was always be missed and never forgotten! Remembering Billy G. Norris Sr. Lecompte Volunteer Fire Department – Louisiana Volunteer Chief Date of Death: July 21, 2014 Age: 62

hief Norris was born March 13, 1952, and the grandchildren are so proud of their C to Waddie and Vera Norris. Billy Paw-Paw Billy. was raised in Cheneyville, Louisiana. He attended Rapides High School In a letter to the family, Rev. Bruce where he excelled in track and set Miller wrote: “Billy will be greatly numerous records. He attended missed not only by a very close Vo-Tech College and became a knit immediate and extended machinist. Billy loved to hunt family but a very tight com- and fish. Billy met the love munity including not only of his life, Catsy, in June of his own Volunteer Fire 1972, and they were mar- Department but also those ried for 41 years. of the region and beyond... He worked hard to obtain The loves of Billy’s life were AEDs and other rescue and his wife; his children, Hope, fire equipment, all impor- Melinda and Billy Jr.; and tant items for the commu- his grandchildren, Caleb, nity. He also served the poor Madeline, Mitch, and Kara. and elderly in various ways… Years ago the whole com- Billy served the Lecompte munity rallied behind him Volunteer Fire Department and his family after each of his since 1992 and loved his job. accidents that ultimately left him He helped establish the 2nd Fire “disabled.” I never saw his severe Station in 2000 and became chief hand injuries stop him for a minute. in 2002. Billy also was president He did not know the word can’t. And and treasurer of the Rapides Parish he did not complain himself. He pushed Firefighter Association and served on many for better equipment for the community at organizations and committees. He taught AED every opportunity. He will be greatly missed by and CPR classes to school children, the elderly, and fire- his family, community, and unsung firefighter heroes.” fighters. He went to many fire departments all over the state and evaluated water shuttles. He received numer- Billy was a simple man who never met a stranger, with ous awards for his service and dedication to firefighters. a “What can I do to help you?” kind of energy. He will always be remembered for his contagious smile. He Billy recruited and trained young and old men and meant so much to so many. women to be firefighters for the Lecompte Volunteer Fire Department. He got his whole family involved. Billy’s love of God was seen throughout his life, which Catsy is the safety officer and drives a pumper. Billy touched many people. Lamentably, this earthly reward Jr. is captain of Station 2. Melinda is the secretary, for service rendered will not be his. Gratefully his and they are all first responders. Hope was an EMT, reward will be. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Remembering Robert B. Thomas Bienville Parish Fire Protection District 7 – Louisiana Volunteer Captain Date of Death: June 30, 2014 Age: 52

aptain Robert Bruce Thomas was Captain Thomas died from injuries sustained C born September 5, 1961, in in an apparatus accident while returning to Miami, Florida, to Robert and the fire station from a structure fire. He Maudie Thomas. From an early loved being a firefighter and answered age he felt a calling to serve his last call doing what he loved. the public. He went into law enforcement at the age of He was preceded in death by 18 and served for 25 years. his father, Robert Thomas, He became a firefighter in and a younger brother, Mark 1981 and remained faithful Thomas. He is survived by his to the position until his mother, Maudie Thomas; one death. Through the years, son, Robert Cody Thomas, he expanded his knowl- and his wife, Melinda; his edge of firefighting and grandchildren, Mason and received many awards Emma; two sisters; and a host and certificates. of nieces and nephews. Remembering Michael C. Kucsma Jr. Gorham Fire Department – Maine Volunteer Deputy Chief Date of Death: June 16, 2014 Age: 43

ichael C. Kucsma Jr, age 43, was As much as Mike loved firefighting, he also put M a captain of the Portland Fire the same enthusiasm into his personal life. Department and a deputy chief of the He was an avid fisherman and followed Gorham Fire Department in Maine. his dreams of fly fishing in Montana, bone fishing in the Bahamas, and Mike began his fire career as one salmon and trout fishing through- of the first “live-in” students of out Maine. Mike loved almost the Gorham Fire Department any activity that allowed him to in 1991. After graduating be outside. He felt that Mother with a bachelor’s degree in Nature created more beauty political science, he worked than humans ever could. his way up the ranks of the Gorham Department His two other priorities while making Portland Fire in life were traveling and Department his career. rum. It started with a cruise to Bermuda to marry his Mike was passionate about best friend, Marcia. While the fire service. He cre- there, he tried his first “Dark ated the Rapid Intervention and Stormy.” From then Team training program for on, he traveled to more than the state when he found a 17 islands in the Caribbean, gap in this type of training. If some more than once, seeking superior training did not exist, out the best rum. he would create and refine a pro- gram until it did. He also wrote Mike is an amazing man with dedi- articles regarding rural firefighting for cation, humor, drive to be the best, and Firehouse Magazine and served on the just great to be around. He is desperately board of directors for the Aircraft Rescue and missed by his family, friends, and brothers and Firefighting Work Group. sisters of the fire service. Remembering David W. Millett Norway Fire Department – Maine Volunteer Captain Date of Death: May 10, 2014 Age: 62

avid W. Millett was born December 4, Men’s Leagues at the Oxford Hills Bowling D1951, to Gordon and Mary Millett, Lanes, was secretary/treasurer of the in the small town of Norway in the Oxford Hills Men’s Softball League, western foothills of the state of and was instrumental in the instal- Maine. The eldest son of nine sib- lation of lights at the fairgrounds lings, he enjoyed being around field. He was involved in a rec- people and had a great sense of reational basketball team, was humor. David lived his entire active in the Oxford Hills life within a mile of where he Athletic Boosters, served on was born. In February 1971, the town budget commit- his family lost their home tee, and was treasurer of the to fire, prompting him Norway Firemen’s Relief to join the Norway Fire Association. David also Department as a volunteer, headed up the operation of leading to a lifetime com- the Norway Firemen’s Cook mitment to the department Shack at the annual Oxford and the town of Norway. County Fair for more than 20 years. David attended the local schools, playing with his In 1991, David fulfilled a brothers on recreational lifelong dream with his wife, baseball teams coached by his Irene, by purchasing a small father, and was a Boy Scout. In business. They owned and man- high school he was very active in aged the popular Millett’s Variety, a sports, managing the school baseball small mom-and-pop store in Norway, team and playing varsity football all Maine, for 14 years. The store was open four years of high school. He was an active 365 days a year, his motto being “We are member of his high school reunion committee here for the convenience of our customers.” for decades. David was dedicated to his immediate family. He was Nicknamed “Bear” by a close friend, David was well married to his wife, Irene, for 42 years, raising two known and liked in the community. Serving in the fire daughters, Lynette and Donna, who also assisted him in department, he became captain of Engine 2 and most the managing of Millett’s Variety, and was very proud of recently took on the role of safety officer. He was a past his grandson, Marcus. He was well-liked for his always president of the Tuesday Night and Thursday Night present smile, kindness to others, and sense of humor. Remembering James E. Bethea Baltimore City Fire Department – Maryland Career Lieutenant Date of Death: November 12, 2014 Age: 62

t. James Elijah Bethea, safety officer, was a said class include 25-30% African American L 41-year veteran of the Baltimore City members. In the end, Lt. Bethea ranked Fire Department. His job was to ensure 5th out of a class of nineteen cadets. no hazardous conditions threatened He was a methodical firefighter and the lives of firefighters or the pub- safety officer with a superior work lic. Over the course of his career, ethic, and he served as a mentor he served in myriad roles, to many fire service members. including FireFighter I and During his illustrious ten- II, emergency vehicle driver, ure, he received numerous pump operator, lieutenant, certifications, awards and and safety officer. Lt. Bethea recognition. was an iconic and ubiqui- tous figure in the depart- Born in Baltimore Maryland, ment. He worked at several on January 9, 1952, he fire houses in Baltimore received his early education City and served as the at Harlem Park Elementary, senior safety officer for 10 Pimlico Junior High School, years until his death. He was and Baltimore Polytechnic an outstanding firefighter Institute. He continued his and safety officer, dedicated academic pursuits at Morgan and committed to providing State University, where he was a first class safety and fire protec- math major and a member of the tion for BCFD’s 1600 members Pershing Rifles – an Army ROTC and the citizens of Baltimore. drill team. James enjoyed fishing, playing basketball, baseball, and chess. Lt. Bethea received extensive training He possessed an eclectic musical interest during his career, including specific train- in jazz, reggae, zydeco, and rock. He was an ing in the areas of hazardous materials, SCBA, avid golfer and world traveler. James was a selfless protective envelope training, fire and arson investi- champion of Moravia-Walther Improvement Association, gation, incident command, NIMS, national response platelet and organ donation, breast cancer awareness, framework, EMS, and fire suppression. youth golf programs, public radio, and Box 414. He was also a lifelong member of the Vulcan Blazers, Inc. Lt. Bethea was enamored with the world of firefighting. He began his employment with the Baltimore City Fire Lt. Bethea was survived and beloved by his wife of Department on April 4, 1973, via a class action suit pre- 30 years, Dr. Brenda Pridgen; his parents, James and sided by U.S. Judge Joseph Young, who determined that Margarine Bethea; his son, Darryl A. Bethea; his sister, BCFD had engaged in racially discriminatory employ- Darlene Bethea; and one grandson, Ethan James Bethea. ment practices that excluded African American candi- He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, broth- dates from the fire service. Judge Young ordered that ers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, a class of cadets be recruited with the condition that and colleagues. Remembering Robert William “Bob” Fogle III Baltimore County Fire Department – Maryland Career Fire Apparatus Driver Operator Date of Death: May 30, 2014 Age: 58

n his 58 years of life, Robert “Bob” it was to mentor, guide, teach, support, and I touched many lives through various encourage young people to become the aspects of his life. He was a gifted, self- next generation firefighters. Any of his taught, “play by ear” musician and students will tell you he was firm but singer, having a special fondness fair. He set very high expectations for bluegrass music. He passed and worked to establish respect on to his son and daughter the between instructor and stu- love of music and the talent dent. He believed respect was to coax out the soul of an a two-way street, and it had instrument. Woodworking, to be earned on both sides. artistic creativity, patience to achieve perfection, and a Bob was a volunteer fire- vision to see a project com- fighter/EMT in Carroll plete before it was started, County for 38 years, serving resulted in numerous cre- Taneytown and Pleasant ations. Just prior to his Valley Fire Departments. death, he collaborated with During this time period, fellow station members and he held various positions oversaw the building of the including lieutenant, cap- dining table at Station 2 in tain and assistant chief. He Baltimore County. intertwined his love of golf with fundraising, having co- Robert was an awesome dad chaired the PVFD Annual Golf to our daughter, Casey, and our Tournament for years. In 2015, the son, Garrett. His love for them was Valley renamed the tournament in immeasurable. He instilled in them his memory. Proceeds go to the “Bob” the value of giving your best, hard work, Robert W. Fogle III Scholastic Funds. Bob dedication, and commitment to seeing a task would be humbled but pleased. His professional through to completion. Equally important, he showed career with Baltimore County Fire Department began them the value of a sense of humor. He was just as soft in 1986. At the time of his death, he held the position of as he was firm with them. He would have given them the fire apparatus driver operator. world if he could, but he knew it was better to set high expectations and watch them discover their potential. Above all, Robert is remembered by his friends and his They grew strong and independent; he grew proud. extended family for his love of a good prank, sense of humor, and willingness to help out however he could. Teaching fire and rescue classes for MFRI and the EST He was caring and giving. He is deeply missed, but Program for Carroll County Public Schools was a pas- fondly remembered. So until we meet again, I say, “Well sion that burned deep in his soul. He knew how critical done my friend, well done.” Remembering Michael-Ryan Robert Crosby Kennedy Boston Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Firefighter Date of Death: March 26, 2014 Age: 33

ichael-Ryan was a U.S. Marine ser- most everyone he met. His charisma, smile, M geant and an Iraq War veteran. He and can do attitude inspired and chal- enjoyed sports and particularly loved lenged those around him. The very Boston’s sports teams, even traveling antithesis of a Dork, it was his with friends to England to sup- chosen nickname from an early port his beloved N.E. Patriots. age, after watching bullies at Michael was a certified Crossfit work. Michael’s friends and trainer, as well as a trained colleagues created a “Dork chief. He belonged to a vet- Strong” Crossfit workout erans’ motorcycle club, was and a memorial tee shirt a volunteer “Big Brother,” that is worn across the U.S. worked with the Boston and Canada in his honor. Burn Foundation, and was Dork Strong tees have a favorite on the children’s been reported in Germany, burn ward, where his playful Ireland, Switzerland, and childishness is sorely missed. being worn by the troops Among his many charitable in Iraq. works, Michael raised funds for local families and local Born and raised in Boston, charities as well as Wounded it is fitting that Michael is Warriors, Homes for Our buried with his brother fire- Troops, and Mass Fallen Heroes. fighters in his beloved Boston.

Michael was the life of the party He is survived by his dad, E. Paul and the king of over the top ges- Kennedy; his mom, Kathy Crosby- tures. He was well known and loved by Bell; and his stepdad, William Bell. Remembering Edward J. Walsh Jr. Boston Fire Department – Massachusetts Career Lieutenant Date of Death: March 26, 2014 Age: 43

ieutenant Edward J. Walsh Jr. was killed Respected and admired by all who worked with Lon March 26, 2014, when he became him, Ed was a person who led by example. trapped in the basement of a multi- He had a warm smile and quick wit that unit residential building during a put everyone at ease. Ed had a big 9-alarm fire in Boston’s Back Bay heart, a giving spirit, and he treated neighborhood. everyone with respect. Whether coaching baseball, volunteer- Ed was a devoted husband ing, or working at the YMCA, and loving father. He was the Ed was always helping chil- son of a firefighter and grew dren, families, and his com- up watching his dad and munity. Ed’s life was devoted his uncles fight fires in his to serving others, but his hometown of Watertown, greatest joy was being the Massachusetts. Being a proud father to three amaz- firefighter was in his blood, ing children. With a smile and Ed’s dream was to that lit up a room, Ed was become a firefighter for the the type of person who City of Boston. was surrounded by friends wherever he went, and the A college graduate who moment you met him you could have chosen any path knew you had a friend for life. in life, Ed followed his dream He will forever be remembered to become a Boston firefighter. as a person who brought out the After several years working in the best in all of us and who brightened business world, where he met his our days with his upbeat personality wife Kristen, Ed’s dream came true and positive attitude. and he joined the BFD in 2004. Appointed to Ladder 15 in the Back Bay, Ed enjoyed being Ed was taken from us far too soon, but his spirit part of one of the busiest fire houses in the city. After will never be extinguished. He lives on with all of the being promoted to lieutenant in 2012, Ed did every- family and friends who loved him, especially his wife, thing he could to work his way back to his beloved Kristen, and their three children, Dillon, Morgan, and firehouse at Ladder 15 and Engine 33. He loved work- Griffin. We celebrate and honor Ed by carrying on ing out of the oldest fire house in the city and being his legacy and continuing the charitable work he did surrounded by great firefighters. throughout his life. Remembering Jamie Angelo Peite Ironwood Township Volunteer Fire Department – Michigan Volunteer Chief Date of Death: March 5, 2014 Age: 43

amie Angelo Peite was born on October 3, Jamie joined the Ironwood Township J 1970, 13 ½ minutes before his twin Volunteer Fire Department and became brother. At 8 pounds 3 ounces, he chief. He worked tirelessly, getting was the bigger twin. Jamie had red grants, donations, and doing fund- hair and beautiful brown eyes. In raisers to get the equipment and death, he donated his eyes so vehicles they needed. someone else could see. Jamie was an avid reader. He His childhood was spent on especially liked books about a 40-acre farm learning to ancient sorcerers and drag- care for animals, helping ons. His collection is mine repair things, making fire- now, and in my lifetime I wood, and playtime. Jamie could never read them all. also had three sisters. They were all so close in age, Jamie was a kind soul. As as all five children were his mother, he never failed born over a five year span. to help me, especially after The bond they formed was his father became disabled. strong, and everyone always His gift of sharing was tre- watched out for each other. mendous. We never realized until his death just how many Jamie graduated from high people’s lives he touched. school in Ironwood, Michigan, and went to Dunwoody Institute Jamie had a son who he didn’t know in Minnesota with his brother. was his until shortly before he passed Jamie became an expert body man and away. He wished to be part of his life, worked at that profession for 22 years. It but never got the chance. Nevertheless, he wasn’t his dream, though, and he realized that was in Jamie’s heart. Given a chance, he would the chemicals on the job were affecting his health. He have been a great father to him, as he was to the daugh- quit and went back to college to become a psycholo- ter he raised. gist. He graduated junior college with highest honors and went on to finish at UW-Superior, but died before Jamie’s jokes and laughter and his deep singing voice he accomplished his dream. With his sense of humor, follow on at family gatherings. We reminisce and laugh he would have been a very good psychologist, and his over things he said or did. God took a great man who is empathy for humanity would have served him well. terribly missed by his family and will never be forgotten. There is solace knowing he is soaring with the angels. Jamie had nothing except his daughter during college and worked part-time jobs to support her, but if someone See you again someday, Jamie. Love ya! Mom needed something, no matter what, he did his best to help. Remembering William “Will” Wiita Coldsprings-Excelsior Fire and Rescue – Michigan Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: September 8, 2014 Age: 47

illiam Russell Wiita died in the line of On scene and off, Will was always looking out for Wduty on September 8, 2014. He suf- the people around him. Will is not known for fered a heart attack a few hours after a any single defining event or act; rather, he rescue call. is best remembered in the community for his calm presence and steadfast Will joined Coldsprings-Excelsior reliability in every situation. He Fire and Rescue in 2001 and was will be sorely missed by all of us, a pillar in the department and but he will continue to serve as community for the last thir- an inspiration to us as we serve teen years. He served in that our community. time as a firefighter, EMT, lieutenant, medical officer This sentiment is shared and, most recently, assistant wholeheartedly by his fam- chief. As a co-founder of ily. Will was born and raised the Explorers program, he in northern Minnesota helped kids in the commu- and grew up loving hunt- nity get involved in the fire ing, fishing, and practical service. jokes. At age 20, he moved to Dearborn, Michigan, to begin One of the most diversely tal- work at Double Eagle Steel and ented members of Station Six, then later decided to leave his Will could be relied on for any job and move to Kalkaska, allow- job, and he excelled at everything ing him to spend more time doing he did. He had a wealth of knowl- what he loved. edge which he put to use on scene as a fire officer and EMT, and behind the Throughout his life in Michigan, he made scenes as “Mr. Fix-It” around the station. regular trips back to Minnesota for family The most daunting situations were, in Will’s occasions, the annual Boundary Waters fishing trip, words, “No Biggie,” yet the most mundane tasks received and hunting season. His family loved his visits and would his full care and attention. From parades and fundrais- share the news, “Willie’s coming home!” and would line up ing breakfasts to medical scenes, house fires and auto “Willie jobs” for him to do. He also enjoyed traveling around accidents, Will was there, day or night, selflessly serv- the country and overseas to visit family and friends, seeing ing the department and the community in whatever way new sights, and trying new foods. Will lived life to the full. he was needed. His superiors and those he supervised came to depend on his guidance, experience, outside- Both his ‘families’ in Minnesota and Michigan miss him the-box thinking, and can-do outlook. dearly and have taken comfort in sharing fond memories and their favorite stories about him. Remembering Ramon Edward “Ray” Hain St. Paul Fire Department – Minnesota Career Firefighter/EMT Date of Death: November 14, 2009 Age: 50

ay Hain was born on April 21, 1959, regarded and dependable. He knew when to R in Oak Park, Illinois, the son of be serious, but he was hilarious. He was Edward and Beverly Hain. His fam- upbeat and had a great attitude.” Ray ily moved to Minnesota when he thrived on the adrenaline rush of was in sixth grade. Ray gradu- fighting fires and trying to save ated from Alexander Ramsey lives. He had deep respect and High School in Roseville, appreciation for all his fire- Minnesota, in 1977. He mar- fighter brothers and sisters. ried his wife, Gail, in 1986, and they have two daugh- In 1997, Ray was diagnosed ters, Rachel and Sara. with cardiomyopathy and heart failure resulting from At 6' 6" tall, Ray played bas- his job duties as a firefighter ketball in high school and and EMT. In November then for two years in col- 1998, he was the miraculous lege. He obtained a bach- recipient of a heart trans- elor’s degree in business plant. In 2009, Ray became and philosophy. He was an increasingly sick due to the avid bicyclist. He was also a deterioration of the trans- talented and creative wood- planted heart and the toll of worker, and he gifted many taking anti-rejection medica- people with beautiful pieces of tions for years. Even though wood furniture, intarsia art, and he was not able to return to the his own original Christmas nut- work that he loved, the transplant crackers and ornaments. Ray loved allowed his life to be extended for 11 being outdoors and going camping, more precious years that he shared fully hiking, and on travel adventures with his with family and friends. During that time family. he spent many generous hours volunteering for his daughters’ school and sports activities, as well as for After working in the corporate world for many years, his church and for others. Ray was excited to join the St. Paul Fire Department in 1994. After completing the academy as one of the top Ray is survived by his wife, Gail; daughters, Rachel and recruits, he chose to work as a “pool” firefighter and Sara; sisters, Sherry (Norb) Duval and Karen (Greg) EMT. One of his captains described him as “highly Sitzmann; and brother, Steve (Jan) Hain. Remembering Dwight Reid Hilton East Central Volunteer Fire Department – Mississippi Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 1, 2014 Age: 57

wight Reid Hilton, 57, of the East a devoted member of Tangipahoa Baptist DFork community, died in the Church. line of duty on February 1, 2014, at Southwest Regional Medical Center Survivors include his wife of 30 in McComb. years, Teresa H. Hilton; his mother, Ivene Hilton; his daugh- Mr. Hilton was born on July 10, ter, Heather O’Quin, and her 1956, to Densel Hilton and husband, John; his sister, Ivene Hackler Hilton. Kathy Eakin, and her hus- band, Robert; and a host of He was a shuttle driver other relatives and special for Mt. Zion Adult Day friends. He was preceded in Care in Summit. He also death by his father. worked for over 25 years as a delivery driver for He was a very loving hus- Carlstedt’s Wholesale band, father, and friend and Florist in McComb. He is greatly missed by friends was an avid deer hunter and family. He enjoyed his and outdoorsman. He was volunteer duties and helped a dedicated fireman for the everyone in need. When the East Central Volunteer Fire tone went off, he was there to Department and was also help. Now he is with God forever! Remembering Bruce Britt Columbia Fire Department – Missouri Career Lieutenant Date of Death: February 22, 2014 Age: 48

ruce was half firefighter and half On days he was not on duty, Bruce took great B cowboy—living out two dreams enjoyment from being on horseback. in his life. He started his firefight- He had several horses at any time ing career as a member of the and would train horses for others. Williamsville (Illinois) Volunteer Bruce worked at the Callaway Sale Fire Department and joined the Barn for several years for a good Columbia Fire Department in opportunity to ride horses. May 2000, rising to the rank of lieutenant. Bruce was a caring and lov- ing father, son, and brother, Bruce was killed in the line and a loyal friend to many. of duty on February 22, Bruce was a good man with 2014, while evacuating a a kind heart who would student apartment build- help anyone in need, and he ing on the campus of the stood for the truth. He had University of Missouri an incredible, gentle spirit after a second-story walk- behind the rough exterior, way collapsed. and he was a fierce defender of family and friends. All Bruce was born November 23, kids should be lucky enough 1965, to Stormy and Wanda to grow up with such a man in Britt in Truth or Consequences, their life, and all adults would New Mexico, and raised in be blessed to have such a brother Williamsville, Illinois. Bruce or friend. Bruce knew Jesus as his graduated from Williamsville High Savior, and we can all rejoice through School and Lincoln Land Community the tears knowing that we will see him College in Springfield, Illinois. He spent a again. Truly, Bruce led a blessed life. few years working on a ranch in northeast New Mexico before moving to Columbia and joining the He leaves behind his wife, Leigh; daughter, Stormy Ann; Columbia Fire Department. Bruce took pride in men- two sons, Paden and Ethan; mother, Wanda (Howard); toring younger firefighters and helping them grow in two sisters, Heidi (Ron) and Kristi (Brian); and neph- their careers. ews, Clay, Kenyon, Avery, and Chase. Remembering Eddie J. Johnson Jr. Alton Fire Department – Missouri Volunteer Chief Date of Death: October 20, 2014 Age: 45

ire Chief Eddie Johnson was killed ily save their home. I believe he died doing F in a motor vehicle accident on what he was so passionate about. October 20, 2014, while responding to the scene of a reported structure fire. Eddie’s hobbies were collecting baseball cards and hot wheel cars. Eddie was the fire chief of He loved to raise chickens and the Alton Volunteer Fire go to auctions. He also loved Department. He was also a NASCAR racing, and his full-time city police officer. favorite race car driver was He loved his job, and he Kyle Busch. loved the fire department. Whether it was as a police I, Venita, was married to officer or a fire chief, he Eddie for 24 years. We have loved to help out his com- three kids, Victoria, Misty, munity any way he could. and a son, Jordan. Eddie The day he died he was on loved his kids more than his way to try to help a fam- life itself. Remembering David Wilbur Anderson Fort Shaw Rural Volunteer Fire Department – Montana Volunteer Chief Date of Death: August 25, 2014 Age: 66

avid Wilbur Anderson, “Chief 5,“ 66, of David’s favorite quote was, “You are a D Fort Shaw, Montana, passed away Firefighter. The first time you respond, on August 25, 2014. A Celebration of you volunteer. After that, it is a Life was held September 6, 2014, commitment.” with many loved ones and friends remembering and sharing sto- David was such a social person ries and thoughts of this very that he was often referred to as special man. “Our Social Butterfly,” by his family. He was forever stop- David served as a fire- ping to chat with or help fighter/first responder someone. He might later from 1970 and as fire ask, “Who was that?” chief/EMT at the Fort Shaw Rural Volunteer Fire David was a member of the Department from 1980 Classics car club 1966-1972 until his death. and was also a member of the Sun River Valley Senior David attended the Center. Dave would travel National Fire Academy in 120 miles a week to pick up Emmitsburg, Maryland, in past valley residents from 1980 and was very proud of that Great Falls and take them to accomplishment and the knowl- Fort Shaw for dinner and cards edge gained from attending. once a week. When asked why he would take the time to do this, he He was also a State of Montana would answer, “Because I can.” These firefighter instructor, EMT, and CPR sweet older ladies were lovingly referred instructor, always learning and passing to as his harem. along his knowledge. He devoted much of his time to helping other departments recruit and train. He David is survived by his wife of 45 years, Barbara, of truly loved what he did and did it with such a passion. Fort Shaw; daughter, Michelle (Ross) Hopp, of Creswell, Never too old to learn, it seemed he was forever taking a Oregon; and granddaughter, Brittany (Tyrel) Feeler, of class, learning and passing it on. Great Falls, Montana. Remembering Douglas J. Casson Vaughn Rural Volunteer Fire Department – Montana Volunteer Safety Officer Date of Death: August 6, 2014 Age: 46

oug was born on February 2, 1968, time he was a full-time EMT, firefighter, Din Great Falls, Montana, to par- MANG, and volunteer firefighter! Yet, he ents Larry and Barbara Casson. He always remained a devoted and loving graduated high school in 1987, husband and father. He served not and married Tina Casson, his only to rescue and protect those in beloved wife of 26 beautiful danger, but to serve and protect years, in Caribou, Maine, in his family, which he loved very 1988. Together they brought much and was proud to have two wonderful children into in his life. the world, their daughter, Allison Faith, and son, No matter how many jobs Christopher Douglas. he seemed to take on all at Throughout the course once, he always enjoyed the of their marriage, Doug life he helped build at home proudly served three years with Tina and the kids. of active duty in the United Doug enjoyed camping, States Air Force before traveling, building model serving in the Montana Air cars, collecting train sets National Guard, where he and antique fireman gear, or stayed until retiring in 2006. just sitting around a campfire While serving in the Air with his beloved family and National Guard, Doug proudly friends. volunteered his time, service, and safety in Kuwait and Iraq dur- Doug had many accomplishments ing Operation Iraqi Freedom. to be proud of. He was chief of the Black Eagle Fire Department, a vol- Throughout the course of Doug’s life, he unteer firefighter, part owner of Big Sky worked a variety of jobs, but all with the same Paramedics, and at the time of his passing he core principle of saving lives. He was ambitious and was serving the Vaughn Fire Department as safety offi- devoted to the calling of emergency services. At one cer and Black Eagle QRU. Remembering Darrell D. Parker Fairbury Rural Fire Department – Nebraska Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: August 13, 2014 Age: 56

arrell grew up in a family of four active hurt for the family because they had a hard Dboys. His parents were devoted time finding information and were left Christians and raised their boys to on their own. He continued to think of love God. Darrell went to church this family and felt the Lord calling camp each year and accepted the him to be a fire chaplain. Soon he Lord as his Savior at a young became the chaplain for the rural age. At this time he committed department. He also worked his life to serving God. towards becoming a licensed pastor for the Foursquare After graduation from high Church where he attended. school, he worked as a meat He was to possibly receive cutter at a local packing his license at district con- company until that plant ference in September, but closed. He then turned to passed away before that was driving trucks for a local accomplished. He was head company that both his usher at his church and a brother and dad also drove greeter. He also served on for. He fell in love with the council for many years. driving a semi truck and continued with this profes- On August 10, 2014, he sion until his death. answered his final fire call before church and suffered a Darrell met his wife at church, heart attack on the way to the and they became faithful workers fire hall to get a truck. He passed in their church. They have one son away on August 13, 2014. Through and a daughter-in-law, and two daugh- the years, he made many friends in the ters and a son-in-law. Darrell and his wife trucking business and with other firefight- were married for 34 years and would have cele- ers in surrounding towns. He was honored at his brated their 35th anniversary in about one month. They funeral by over 500 family members, friends, firefight- were also blessed with seven grandchildren at the time ers, EMTs, and members of law enforcement. of his death. His grandchildren were the love of his life and the apple of his eye. Darrell was the first firefighter to die in the line of duty in Jefferson County. Next to God and family, he loved being a rural volun- teer firefighter, serving faithfully in Fairbury for over He left behind his wife, son, two daughters, a daughter- 25 years. He held several positions within the depart- in-law and a son-in-law. He was also survived by his ment, including captain and safety officer. While help- mother and father, three brothers, and their wives. He is ing with a search and rescue for some children, Darrell also missed by his seven grandchildren. Remembering Paul S. Cash Nevada Division of Forestry – Nevada Career Captain Date of Death: February 26, 2011 Age: 39

aptain Paul Cash was a second- a natural leader. He was highly intelligent, had C generation firefighter who began his an addictive sense of humor, made friends career in June of 1988, as a seasonal easily, and was extremely well liked. firefighter for the Nevada Division Paul was a great friend, a great fire- of Forestry. Paul became a career fighter, a caring husband and, most firefighter with the NDF in May importantly, a great father. He 1996 and was promoted to will be missed by all the people captain in July 2006. he knew, those whose lives he touched in the line of duty. He always enjoyed a chal- lenge and had a very level Paul is survived by his wife, head in the face of any Sherri, and his daughter, adversity, which made him Ariel. Remembering Donovan Artie Garcia Jr. Hungry Valley Volunteer Fire Department – Nevada Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: June 5, 2014 Age: 52

onovan A. Garcia Jr., known lovingly as Western Nevada Agency (WNA), a 20-man D “Dondi,” was born August 27, 1961, hand crew based in Carson City, Nevada. in Reno, Nevada. Dondi was a member He began working his way up the lad- of the Reno/Sparks Indian Colony, der as a basic wildland firefighter, descended from the Washoe tribe advanced wildland firefighter, of California and Nevada and and single resource (crew boss). the Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe Later, he went to work with of Nevada. He was extremely FireStop, a contract wild- proud of being a Native land engine company out of American firefighter and California, becoming quali- felt a special connection in fied as an engine boss and defending and conserving engine operator. his homeland. After 14 seasons on the road Dondi loved his life of ser- as a professional wildland vice. He graduated from firefighter, Dondi retired, the police academy in 1992 but fire passionately always and became a Reno/Sparks boiled in his blood. In 2012, Indian Colony police offi- he was approached by the cer, serving his community chief of the Hungry Valley for approximately five years. Volunteer Fire Department, During this time, his lifelong where his fellow members voted twin best friends took him for a him to the rank of captain, then ride in their wildland fire engine. named him assistant chief. Dondi That day, his love changed from was ecstatic! police work to firefighting, and soon he was off fighting fires across the United Donovan comes from a huge loving fam- States as a professional wildland firefighter. ily as a son, the eldest of his siblings, brother, Donovan’s proudest assignment came in February 2003 cousin, uncle, father, and grandfather. Dondi, a single when he participated in the Columbia Shuttle recovery. father, raised his two youngest children, but passion- This was a huge effort in which his team, along with ately loved all his children. They couldn’t be any prouder many others, attempted to recover the remains of the of their father, as is the entire family. As a member of seven astronauts and different items of the spacecraft. a big family, police, or fire crew/department, Donovan lived to serve others. His kindness and outrageous sense Throughout Donovan’s career as an emergency of humor are greatly missed. His name was added to the responder, both career and volunteer, he acquired Nevada Firefighters’ Memorial in Carson City, Nevada, countless qualifications and certifications. He was a in 2014. peace officer from the High Sierra Police Academy and received certifications in EMS and then as an EMT. Rest in peace my father, my son, my brother, my friend. His fire career began with the Bureau of Indian Affairs We will see you again. Remembering Gregory D. Barnas Wallington Fire Department and Jersey City Fire Department – New Jersey Volunteer and Career Captain Date of Death: February 28, 2014 Age: 57

reg “Barney” Barnas was a resident of his life. Over the years, he coached his sons’ G Wallington, New Jersey, a loving soccer, baseball, and hockey teams. He husband to Patty since 1986, and a loved fishing with his sons and going loving father to Kevin and John. A to baseball and hockey games. Jersey City fireman since 1985, he was currently a captain of Greg was a bone marrow/stem Jersey City Fire Department cell donor for his younger son, Ladder 6, captain of John, who had Hodgkin’s Wallington Fire Department Lymphoma and went through Truck 201, an EMT, and three stem cell transplants. a fire instructor for Task John’s dream was to be a Force 1. Greg was a 9/11 Jersey City fireman like his responder with Jersey City dad and his brother, Kevin. when the World Trade Greg was John’s last donor, Center was attacked. and it finally appeared as though the cancer was Greg’s childhood dream gone. Unfortunately, John was to be a firefighter. passed away four months He joined the Wallington after Greg, due to complicaß- Junior Fire Department in tions from a weak immune 1974 and became a regular system and pneumonia. member of the department in 1975. Over the years, he served Greg died fighting a restaurant Wallington as a lieutenant, cap- fire on February 28, 2014, with tain, assistant chief, deputy chief, the Wallington Fire Department. chief of the department, and safety He died doing what he loved— officer. Greg was also a member of the fighting fires. He will be greatly missed Wallington Emergency Squad and worked with by his family and many friends. We know the Fire Prevention Bureau. Greg was an instructor Greg is with his son, John, and all the other firefight- and evaluator for the Bergen County Fire Academy, a ers, and I’m sure he called in some special favors to member of the South Bergen Fire Chiefs’ Association, make sure John got assigned with him to a special fire C.R.E.W. Fire Chiefs’ Association, NJ State Fire Chiefs’ department up in heaven. Association, IAFF #1064, and the Wallington Ex Chiefs Golden Horn Club. Greg’s name and dedication to the fire service were known by many. He was passionate about training and Greg loved spending time at his summer home at helping departments when they did not have the finan- Elk Lake, in Waymart, Pennsylvania, where he was cial resources locally available. We have created the also a member of the Waymart and Browndale Fire Greg Barnas Firefighter Benefit Fund in Greg and John’s Departments. No matter where he went—home, work, honor to help fire departments obtain training, equip- or vacation—the fire department was always a part of ment, and gear. Remembering Joseph Edward Bove III Spotswood Fire Department – New Jersey Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: March 13, 2014 Age: 53

oseph Edward Bove III was born to terms, and he was happiest answering fire calls. J Jean and Joseph Edward Bove Jr. Truly, it was his calling in life, and he died on December 1, 1960. He was born doing what he loved most. Joe saved to a Polish mother and an Italian a few lives—one in a car accident, father, who were very family ori- another man at work, a young girl. ented. He grew up in a small town in central New Jersey Eleven years after his firstborn where everyone knew each son came into this world, he other and would never say was blessed with a daughter, no to helping a neighbor. Jacqueline Elizabeth. Truly a He started working at age daddy’s girl, today she is fol- 13 in a bakery and worked lowing in his footsteps with at a shoe store during high volunteering for the ladies school. He worked hard auxiliary of the Spotswood and saved his money to Fire Department. buy his own car and, at age 19, an engagement ring. Joseph was a kind, humble man who loved his family, He finished his schooling in friends, and the fire depart- HVAC by the time he was 20 ment. He was a man of God and began working at Johnson and integrity and looked at the & Johnson Pharmaceutical as a good in others. He never said machinist. Later he started his an unkind word about anyone own successful contracting com- and never judged others, because pany. He married his high school he knew everyone has a story. Saving sweetheart, Renata Bove, at age 21. lives was easy for him because he valued Together they built a home, which took life. He received a Hero’s Award but never three years. During the final year of building felt he deserved any honor or awards. He did for their home, their son, Joseph Edward Bove IV, was others out of the kindness of his heart. born. Two years later another son was born, Anthony Michael Bove. He loved the beach and his beach house, fishing, and being a fireman. He could build and fix anything, Joseph was on the fire brigade at work and felt he should including his home. He loved the home he built, and contribute to his hometown of Spotswood, where “A he passed away there. He was married for 33 years and small friendly community” is the motto. He joined the knew the meaning of love and faithfulness. His family Spotswood Fire Department, rising through the ranks meant everything to him, and not a day goes by that his to become fire chief. He was the first chief to hold three family and friends don’t miss him. Remembering Richard L. Choate Byram Township Fire Department – New Jersey Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 8, 2014 Age: 67

consummate leader and out-of-the- “Rich was always looking out for everyone. By A box thinker, Rich arrived with the his example and heartfelt advice he helped first wave of the baby boomers and left shape the course of my life.” From a fel- ahead of his time. low firefighter: “Rich and I worked together for twenty-four years and I The details of his life form a solid never heard him say a bad word list. A hard worker, he climbed about anyone.” Perhaps what the ladder from computer oper- warmed my heart the most was ator to system programmer to hearing two constant refrains: managing a data center for the “I will always remember his Bank of New York. An avid smile,” and “Rich always pilot, he obtained his private made me laugh.” pilot’s license, continued on to get his instrument rating, Who was Rich Choate? then a commercial endorse- Rich was bedrock for ment, and became a sought- anyone who needed solid after commercial flight ground. He was the only instructor. A passionate and son of Frances and Lewis competitive shooter, he was Choate; the father of four a proud member of the West wonderful children: Rich, Hudson Detachment Marine Dina, Christopher, and Casey; Corps League Shooting Team, the grandfather to four delight- United States Practical Shooting ful grandchildren: Christopher, Association, and International Nicole, Amanda, and Angela; and Defensive Pistol Association. His com- the go-to person in an extended mitment to helping others brought him family of close cousins, nephews, to the Byram Township Fire Department, nieces, and in-laws. where he held the positions of president, secretary, and lieutenant, and completed just shy of twenty-five years A Buddhist friend tells me death is simply walking of public service. into another room. My Catholic faith assures me that death is but an illusion, and we will all meet again. As But who was the man, Rich Choate? The facts cannot we honor the passing of firefighters from around the contain him. Rich was love. Rich was courage. Rich was nation, let us be certain that resting in peace is both for loyalty. The dark cloud of his passing revealed a silver the living and for those we celebrate this weekend. May thread as his close friends, family members, and beloved we rest assured that their love is a real and an active community shared with me their vision of Rich. presence that extends far beyond our memories. Our firefighters are still on call, twenty-four seven, walking From a dear neighbor: “Rich made me feel safe. I always ahead of us, cultivating our spirits in ways we never felt safe knowing Rich was around.” From a colleague: thought possible. Remembering Christopher J. Hunter Cinnaminson Fire Department – New Jersey Career Lieutenant Date of Death: November 15, 2014 Age: 38

hristopher J. Hunter’s call to serve including the CPR Life Saves Award and C came early in life, when at the age Career Firefighter of the Year. Lt. Hunter of 16 he joined the Cinnaminson Fire was also recognized for his heroic Department as a junior firefighter. efforts while responding to a call. A lifelong Cinnaminson resident, In 2004, Lt. Hunter received a Chris served as a volunteer fire- Meritorious Service Award from fighter and became a career the 200 Club of Burlington firefighter with the depart- County for his role in rescu- ment in 1998. A consum- ing an Alzheimer’s patient mate professional, Chris from a burning apartment progressed to the rank of building. lieutenant during his 22 years with the department. On November 15, 2014, Lt. Hunter passed away Lt. Hunter was highly at home within 24 hours qualified in all operational of working a shift and and procedural aspects of responding to emergency the job. He had a voracious incidents. appetite to learn about new techniques and was always Although Lt. Hunter’s pas- reading and researching to sion for the job was an impor- advance his skill set. He shared tant part of his life, his love for his knowledge and implemented his family was immeasurable. His new and current tactics with his wife, Claire; his son, Christopher crews. He was a true role model for “CJ” (age 8); and his daughter, Emma all of the firefighters in the department (age 4); survive him. He is the loving and has inspired others to follow in his son to James and Marion Hunter, brother footsteps. to Sheri Hunter, and uncle to Dylan Hunter. Lt. Hunter was very proud of his family and spent much Lt. Hunter was involved in numerous projects within time with them enjoying sports or taking trips to Long the department, including the recent design of two of Beach Island. the department’s newest apparatus. In fact, the depart- ment’s new rescue-engine is dedicated to Lt. Hunter for To honor his passion for training, a foundation has been his efforts. created to help libraries offer fire-training books for first responders. The Hunter’s Heroes Foundation is being Over the years, Lt. Hunter received many awards dur- run by Lt. Hunter’s wife and three of his coworkers in ing his time with the Cinnaminson Fire Department, South Jersey to preserve his spirit and legacy. Remembering Robert C. Meyer Union Hose Fire Company – New Jersey Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: June 8, 2014 Age: 54

ob Meyer was born on June 14, 1959. He was always there to lend a hand to friends BHe was the oldest of four siblings. and family whenever needed. He spent most of his childhood grow- ing up in Middletown, New Jersey. Bob worked for United Parcel Service for many years and drove He moved to Union Beach, a tractor-trailer. On July 8, New Jersey, in 1992. He was 2004, Bob was driving a trac- a volunteer firefighter with tor-trailer on the New Jersey Belford Engine Company Turnpike when he came in Middletown and Union upon a bad accident. He Hose Fire Company in assisted New Jersey State Union Beach. He loved vol- Trooper Alexander Tezsla unteering and being of ser- in pulling a trapped dump vice to both Middletown truck driver from his burn- and Union Beach. ing vehicle, for which he was given the Carnegie Bob loved animals and Award for heroism. adopted many Irish setters through Irish Setter Rescue. Bob had many good friends. He also loved to ride dirt He is deeply missed by his bikes and competed when he wife, family, and friends. was younger. Remembering Cosmo Paris Cliffside Park Fire Department – New Jersey Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: January 8, 2014 Age: 59

n March 22, 1954, Cosmo Paris was the Claus during the CPFD Christmas tour every O first child born to Italian immigrant December, at children’s shelters, home- parents, along with his twin brother, less shelters, retirement homes, and Joe. Cosmo was a devoted husband various other organizations. to his wife, Susan; a loving father to three daughters, Melissa, Cosmo was a kindhearted man Lindsey, and Carly; a loving who enjoyed helping oth- grandfather to his favorite ers and, at times, going out granddaughter, Giuliana; of his way to help someone a brother to six siblings; a in need. Cosmo took pride brother-in-law to Linda; in making his many crafts and a father-in-law to out of everyday recycled Oscar. Cosmo was all about materials. He made a rep- family and family values. lica CPFD truck he named “Mini 3,” along with a few Cosmo returned to school of his CPFD brothers. Mini to earn his high school 3 was on display for many diploma at the age of 57. Christmases in front of the Soon after, he attended Cliffside Park Borough Hall, and successfully completed as well as in many parades, plumbing school. before he donated it to its final home at the New Jersey Cosmo was a dedicated hus- Firemen’s Home in Boonton. band to his wife and lived for his family. Cosmo especially loved tak- From there, Cosmo thought big and ing his children on various excursions began creating his next project, a replica throughout their childhood and was the CPFD fire truck he named “The Mini Tiller.” best father his children were honored to have. Cosmo was not one to like public attention; how- Cosmo’s granddaughter was the apple of his eye, and he ever, the Mini Tiller drew attention when his son-in-law, continued on his tradition with taking her to the park Oscar, contacted the local newspaper to showcase his and everywhere he could possibly take her. creation that he displayed on the front lawn of his home. Cosmo was hesitant about this, but graciously enjoyed Cosmo was naturally very pet friendly. Every animal he knowing everyone loved his creation that he converted interacted with knew he was harmless and took to him from a Halloween to a Christmas tiller. immediately. Cosmo was indeed “The Pet Whisperer.” Cosmo was adored by all that knew him and will always In 1998, Cosmo joined the Cliffside Park Volunteer be loved, missed, and remembered by all of his family Fire Department and began his dedicated service to and friends. Rest in peace, our brother, Cosmo Paris, his community. Cosmo especially loved playing Santa aka “Dig It.” You will never be forgotten. Remembering Arthur E. Treon Cape May County Office of Emergency Management – New Jersey Career Fire Coordinator Date of Death: November 19, 2014 Age: 62

rtie was born September 12, 1952, He served as chief of the department from A in Cape May Court House, New 1995-2009. After stepping down as chief, Jersey. He was a family man in every Artie took on the role of safety officer. sense of the word. Artie was a lov- Artie received various awards and ing husband, dad, poppy, brother, commendations too numerous to uncle and son. He married the recount. Highly trained, he was love of his life, Dora J. Treon, a chief fire academy instruc- August 26, 1989. They were tor for the Cape May County married for 25 years but Fire Academy. Artie retired in together for 36 wonderful 2007, as lieutenant, from the years. Artie and Dora were Cape May County Sheriff’s not only husband and wife, Office after 25 years of -ser they were best friends. vice. Shortly after his retire- He was the proud dad of ment, he began working for two sons, Arthur (Kim) the Cape May County Office Moore and Brian (Jenn) of Emergency Management, Moore, and a loving Poppy where he held the position to his eight grandchildren, of deputy coordinator. Artie Meaghan, Marisa, Gavin, was also an active member Quinn, AJ, Drew, Owen, and of the Cape Island Masonic Bree. He was a loving brother Lodge #30 F&AM. to Dottie Carman, James (Marleen) Treon, Sondra Cox, Artie was one of a kind. He loved Robert Treon, and Gary (Amber) life and always said to “live life Treon, and uncle to many nieces and to the fullest.” Although his family nephews. Artie was a Green Bay Packers always came first, he loved being a fire- fan, and when not spending time with his fighter, serving and protecting the commu- family, he loved being on the road on his Harley. nity and helping others in any way he could. His family, friends, firefighter brothers, and the community He joined the Town Bank Volunteer Fire Company suffered a great loss when Artie passed. His memory in 1975. He obtained his 10-year star and became a will never be forgotten, as many have said that he was life member in 1985. He held the office of vice presi- their mentor and hoped to be more like the kind of man dent, president, lieutenant, captain, and deputy chief. Artie was. He will be deeply missed. Remembering James J. Woods Jersey City Fire Department – New Jersey Career Firefighter Date of Death: December 26, 2014 Age: 44

immy loved and was dedicated to his and Rescue Co 1. His last assignment was at J wife, Maryann. Together, they Engine 14/Haz Mat 1 as a firefighter/haz- loved and nurtured their family, ardous materials emergency response Maegan (20), James Joseph Jr. (7), technician. and Jenna (5), in Lafayette, New Jersey. He enjoyed the outdoors During his 16-year career, he and was an avid hunter and earned many awards for brav- fisherman while he enjoyed ery and heroism. His commen- the companionship of his dations include Firefighter dog, Daisy. of the Year, for his efforts at Ground Zero during the Woodsy was appointed to September 11, 2001, attacks the Fire Department of on this Nation. He was a Jersey City (NJ) in March proud member of the IAFF/ of 1999 and would have PFANJ Local 1066, the JCFF been promoted to captain Emerald Society, JC and NJ in March of 2015. He was Relief Association and very a very intelligent firefighter active in many FDJC related and well respected by his fraternal events. peers. He requested assign- ments to the busiest units in Woodsy had an infectious the city, including Engine 22 smile and loved to laugh. Remembering Matt Ambelas Fire Department City of New York – New York Career Lieutenant Date of Death: July 5, 2014 Age: 40

boy who was caught in a roll up gate in y husband, Matt Ambelas, was Williamsburg, Brooklyn. His courage, M born September 8, 1973. Matt bravery, and love of the job made Matt was born and raised in Staten Island, an outstanding firefighter. New York. Matt had a love for many things— From a young age, Matt always music, football, friends—but wanted to be a firefighter. most of all, our children and His dream became a real- myself. We were everything ity in 2000. After his rota- to him. He was an amaz- tion, Matt landed a spot ing father to Gabriella and at Firehouse 161-81. He Giovanna. He was a won- spent 13 memorable years derful husband to me. Ten at “The Beach.” It was his years was not enough time second home. The amazing with him. He always put our firefighters he worked with needs before his own. became a second family to us. He called these men Matt was a kind, gener- his brothers. In September ous, and caring person who 2013, Matt was promoted would do anything for anyone to lieutenant. We were so who needed him. He touched proud of his accomplishment. the lives of everyone who knew One of Matt’s proudest moment him. His memory will live on for- was when, in May 2014, he and ever, because of all of us who were his fellow firefighters from 211-119 truly blessed to have known him. I received an award for saving a young will love him always.

Remembering Kevin J. Bristol Peekskill Fire Department – New York Career Firefighter Date of Death: March 3, 2014 Age: 48

evin John Bristol was born, raised, grandson, Alex. We totally enjoyed our time K worked, and died in Peekskill, New spent in New York City and our vacations York. He was the fourth child of Owen together. Alex loved when Papa Kev and Joan, has one brother, and three Kev would make the popping sound sisters—Colleen, Maureen, and with his mouth. Fishing became Chrissy. He was a man of great Papa Kevin’s favorite activity stature; only greater than his with our grandson, Owen. height was his heart. If you Looking forward to our road ask anyone in his local union trips to Huntersville became 2343, all would say what a a way of life. fair, loving person Kevin was. Family vacations and occa- sions were so important He volunteered at the to Kevin. Spending time very department where he with Patti, Skip, Meredith, became a career man, just Rich, Michael, Abi, Jeff, Ali, like his dad. He was a mem- Evan, Dave, and Lin made ber of the PHS swim team, these times all the more coaching after graduation. special. Along with Mary, He was the kicker for the PHS Dommie, Krystel, Bob, Eva, football team. He studied at and Bobby—we all shared our Texas Tech University, where he lives together! was a punter for the Red Raiders. He also served our nation as a Whether he was at the firehouse or corpsman for the Naval Reserves. painting, Kevin loved his work. He truly enjoyed his trips with the guys. He received many accolades professionally, They traveled to so many different cities to but his greatest accomplishments in my eyes are watch the Yankees win (lose). that of best friend, husband, dad, and papa. He loved all of us; none of his other titles mattered. He made me feel What wonderful memories of a truly extraordinary, loved and special each and every day. He was a mentor unselfish, and giving man! to many, especially our son, Brian. He was so proud of Brian and his accomplishments, his wife, Dana, and our Until we meet again, my love… Remembering Fred Edwards Liberty Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: May 7, 2014 Age: 66

red Edwards joined the Liberty Hose ber of the Fraternal Order of Free Masons, F and Truck Co. No. 2 in August 1967 Mongaup Lodge #521 of Liberty, and the and remained an active member of Liberty Elks Lodge #1545. Freddie’s the Liberty Fire Department for true passions were his life with his 47 years. Fred, or “Freddie,” as wife, Diane, his family, fishing, he was known to all, served as hunting, and spending time with fire commissioner, lieutenant, his pal, Laker. and trustee with the Liberty Fire Department and also Fred passed away at his served with the Hudson home on May 7, 2014, after Valley Firemen and Red participating in a train- Vest Associations. Fred was ing drill the night before often at the firehouse, will- and another training drill ing to lend a hand in what- earlier in the day. He left ever needed to be done. behind his beloved wife, Diane, and many other Fred retired after 32 years as family members, including a NYS correctional officer. two brothers who have also He was a lifelong resident served with the Liberty Fire of Liberty and was a mem- Department. Remembering Ross E. Huffer Nesconset Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter/EMT Date of Death: February 27, 2014 Age: 66

hether serving as a firefighter, EMT, or safety and regularly assisted with the fire W fire chief, Ross Huffer responded prevention program. He also served as to Nesconset residents’ assistance any a safety officer for the department time of the day or night, willing and the Smithtown Fire Chief’s and eager to help at a moment’s Council. notice. A second thought was never given. For the past 48 Ross was directly responsible years, it was just in his blood for the restoration of the to help his fellow man. department’s 1937 American LaFrance pumper. As a Born in Glen Cove, result, the department won New York, and raised in numerous awards through- Farmingdale and Lake out the years. Ronkonkoma, Ross joined Nesconset Fire Department He worked for the Suffolk in 1968. He enlisted in the County Police Department U.S. Army, earning the for 20 years as an evidence Good Conduct Medal and recovery tow operator after the National Defense Service previously owning his busi- Medal. ness, Custom Car Carriers.

In 1975, he married Kathleen. In addition to being a fire- They settled in Nesconset and fighter, he served as a New York had two children, Paul and Steven. State EMT, helping to facilitate the formation of the First Responder He rose through the ranks of the Program. For the past 21 years, he Nesconset Fire Department, becoming manned this vehicle each week for two chief in 1982. As an assistant chief, he received consecutive 24-hour tours. the Medal of Valor for rescuing a resident from a house fire in 1981. He received numerous unit citations from He had a great sense of humor and wit. Beneath the Smithtown Fire Chief’s Council. the “tough guy persona” he encouraged a positive morale, assisting with training, serving as a mentor to Ross was an AHA CPR/first aid instructor. He taught younger members, encouraging them to be the best defensive driving, blood borne pathogens, boating they could be. Remembering Melvin R. Loder Elba Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: April 19, 2014 Age: 68

elvin R. Loder, was born November 12, worked in a donut shop and on a pig farm to M 1945, to Adolf and Anna Loder. make gas money. If a vehicle could move, Melvin joined the Navy 1965–1968, he wanted to be in or on it. His bucket during the Viet Nam war, assigned to list still contained a wish for a heli- ordinance on the USS Shangri-La, copter ride. an aircraft carrier. Melvin was a man of cour- After the Navy, he returned age, determination, and great to Batavia, New York. He character. You always knew was employed for 19 years that he had your back. His at Kodak as an instru- wife called him “a knight in ment maker. He built shining armor,” maybe with prototypes designed by a dent or two. His ring- engineers, even participat- tone on his wife’s phone ing on a lens for the Hubble was Mighty Mouse: “Here Telescope, which is now in I come to save the day.” He the Smithsonian. had a sweet/salty personal- ity. If you became his friend, After returning to the you were a friend for life. To Batavia area, he met and mar- know him was to love him. ried the love of his life, Linda, with whom he shared 44 years Melvin joined the Elba Volunteer of adventures together. Fire Department later in life after a neighbor’s fire. Although he was Melvin had many talents, skills, and older, they found a place for him as interests. He obtained his pilot’s license, fire police. He held this position in the his pistol permit, his CDL license, and his highest respect. He believed it was his job ham radio call letters of N2TOF. His love of to protect those on his team who were respond- country, family, friends, even animals, was always obvi- ing. He didn’t care if he made friends while on duty, he ous. He had a love and respect for our flag and flew it enforced the rules which kept us safe any time the tones when camping, hunting, or even 4-wheeling. He would went off. He encouraged many with his zest for living and have been so proud of the flag flown during his funeral his sense of humor. procession. He had a great love of knowledge and could talk or listen on many subjects. Predeceased by his only child, Robert, he is sadly missed by his wife, his friends, and his department. He will not An avid outdoorsman, he learned to hunt and fish at be soon forgotten. As we ask ourselves, “What would an early age. He had his first motorcycle at age 15 and Melvin do?” Remembering Donald “Pete” Martin Sanborn Fire Company – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: October 30, 2014 Age: 84

onald F. “Pete” Martin, of Sanborn, Association for the last six years. In 2003, Pete DNew York, was born on October 22, was the recipient of the Watson Award. 1930, in Wilson, New York, the son of the late Charles and Clara In 1949, Pete played on the Wilson (Frederecks) Martin. Lakemen Six Man Football team that ran the gamut with three Pete joined the Sanborn Fire consecutive undefeated sea- Company on September 28, sons. Coached by Walter J. 1959, where he took his first Hutchison, they went on a E.F. course from Ed Roll. 17-game winning streak and Over the years, he took had three straight league at least 27 state courses, championships. Pete was including at the New inducted into the Wilson York State Fire Academy High School Hall of Fame in Montour Falls and the in 2009. National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He Pete served his country in was appointed fire company the United States Air Force, foreman in 1966, elected 2nd where he was a radar opera- assistant chief in 1969, 1st tor. He also was employed as assistant chief in 1972, chief an engineering technician at in 1976, 2nd assistant chief in Harrison Radiator. He enjoyed 1978, and chief from 1979-1982. golfing, gardening, mowing his Other fire company offices he lawn, looking at the autumn leaves, held were treasurer in 1984 and in Christmas lights, and spending time at 1993‑97, vice president from 1985-88, the Sanborn Fire Hall. Pete also belonged president from 1988-92, president of the to the American Legion and Oddfellows. Niagara County Fire Chiefs Association in 1983, and president of the Niagara County Volunteer Firemen’s Pete is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Clara Association in 1997. He started the Bingo Committee for M. Read; they were married on October 7, 1951. He the Sanborn Fire Company in 1968, was Sanborn’s first leaves behind his four daughters—who he referred to as bingo chairman, and was still an active bingo worker. “Pete’s Girls”—Pamela (late Peter) Treichler, Elizabeth He served on the line-of-duty committee for both the (Dennis) Lawler, Elena Martin, and Wendy (Randy NCVFA and NCFCA for six years, chairman for the last Wysocki) Martin; granddaughters, Miranda (Thomas) three years. He had served on the last six truck commit- Josker and Jennifer Wysocki; and sister, Betty (late tees for Sanborn Fire Company and on the building com- Albert) Goater. He is also survived by several nieces, mittee for the New Truck Hall addition. He has served nephews and cousins. Mr. Martin was the brother of the as president of the Niagara County Firemen’s Bingo late Stanley Martin and Ruth Phillips. Remembering Frank L. Obremski Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services – New York Volunteer Deputy Fire Coordinator Date of Death: March 23, 2014 Age: 64

rank L. Obremski, age 64, was an ex- skills with fellow members of the department. F chief and ex-president of the North His commitment to his community was a Babylon Volunteer Fire Company of sign of his leadership. Long Island, New York. He entered the fire service in 1969, and rose He was a retired deputy chief of the through the ranks to serve as MTA Police, formerly the Long chief of the department in 1992- Island Railroad Police, after 1993. He served as president 29 years of dedicated service. of the fire company in 2004- Obremski has degrees from 2005. Ex-Chief Obremski Farmingdale State University, dedicated his career to the John Jay College of Criminal training, safety, and profes- Justice, and a master’s degree sionalism of his fire depart- from C.W. Post College of ment and its members. He Long Island University. He developed new and innova- also graduated from the tive safety drills for the newer F.B.I. National Academy in members of the depart- Quantico, Virginia. ment. A true professional Obremski was married to the with a wealth of knowledge, former Nancy Pennecke for Obremski was well respected 43 years. They looked forward by his peers and community to traveling in their retirement. members and leaders. He is also survived by his brother, John, of Haymarket, Virginia, a Since 2005, Frank was a deputy member of the Fairfax Volunteer Fire fire coordinator for the Suffolk Department. County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services. While serving Once, while on vacation in the Bahamas, in this capacity, he answered his last alarm on Obremski noticed a car fire and quickly extin- March 10, 2014. Obremski was president of the Town of guished the fire before the Nassau fire brigade arrived. Babylon Fire Chiefs Association and a fire coordinator He was always prepared to handle emergency situations. for the Town of Babylon. He received the Chief Francis His family and friends looked up to him for his knowl- Noonan Award and the Chief Scarangella Award from edge and support in handling all encounters in a calm, the fire company. He was a trustee of the North Babylon caring, and organized manner. Ex-Chief Obremski was Benevolent Association, a member of the Firemen’s a superior leader. As a firefighter, EMT, rescue member, Association of the State of New York, New York State Fire and officer, he devoted his energies to being the best Chiefs, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. firefighter he could be.

Training, hard work, and courage were rewarding fac- Our hero, Frank L. Obremski, is greatly missed by his tors to him, a true hero to all he encountered. Obremski wife, family, friends, and members of his fire depart- enjoyed the challenges of fire service and sharing his ment and community. Remembering Joseph Sanford Jr. Inwood Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: December 23, 2014 Age: 43

oseph Sanford Jr. was born on July 24, in his 18 years of service, including lieuten- J 1971, in Tuskegee, Alabama. ant as of March 14, 2005, captain as of “Junior,” as he was affectionately March 12, 2007, and assistant chief as known, moved to New York in of April 2009. February of 1992 where he met his wife, Jacqueline. He had After his term of chief, Joseph three children, Douglas (27), continued his service as a Janisha (20), and Isaiah (22). veteran firefighter, but also Junior was a faithful family focused on his other hob- man with a desire to serve bies, such as football. Junior his community. became a co-owner of a semi-professional football Junior joined the Inwood team named the Nassau Fire Department on Golden Eagles. Junior’s love October 7, 1996, where of life was apparent to all he became a member of that knew him. Engine Company #1. It was there he began to excel During a house fire in in the fire training certifi- Woodmere on Friday, cation courses and gained December 19, 2014, Junior a reputation as an outstand- had an accident which ulti- ing and dedicated fireman. mately led to his passing on He loved being a part of the December 23, 2014. brotherhood in the volunteer fire department. He was also known for Joseph was a beloved husband, father, his explosive personality and infec- brother, friend, and an amazing fire- tious smile. Junior held several positions man. He will be greatly missed. Remembering Richard D. Weisse Sr. St. James Fire District – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: November 15, 2014 Age: 59

ichard D. Weisse Sr. was born tored the Juniors, creating a family morale, R October 1, 1955, in St. James, New showing them his passion for service to York, to Edward and Irene Weisse. A others, and the numerous responsibil- son, husband, father, and grand- ities of becoming a firefighter. And, father, he still found the time to of course, he shared the joy he had incorporate a devoted life to the at Christmas as he played Santa Saint James Fire Department, for the SJFD and St. James! where he was an active mem- ber for 42 years. Richie’s children witnessed his love and dedication in Growing up, Richie was many ways. A role model always around the fire- and hero to both his chil- house. Seeing the SJFD dren, they have contin- through his grandfather’s ued the family tradition of and father’s eyes, he devel- being a part of the SJFD oped a deep love and pride as the 4th Weisse genera- for SJFD. He joined in 1972, tion. Rich Jr. served side- continuing a third genera- by-side with his dad on tion of service. He continued Engine 1, while Tricia serves their legacy, giving a strong as an active EMT on the EMS example to his own children, Company. After Richie passed, who followed in their beloved Tricia joined Engine 1 to follow Dad’s footsteps. Richie, Badge her father’s footsteps. #47, captain of Rescue, member of Ambulance Company, lieuten- Richie was married to his dear ant of Engine One, director of Junior wife, Theresa, for 33 years. Always a Firefighters, Fire Prevention Committee helping hand, a caring and devoted dad to member, and member of the Wildcats Drill Richard and Tricia, he was the best father-in- Team.Richie was a proud custodian for the Kings Park law to Kerry. He was over the moon to become “Papa” to School District for over 25 years. He was known for Avery, Ryder, and Kennedy Richele. Being Papa gave him his always ready-to-help attitude with students, teach- two extra bonuses: sharing his birthday with grandson, ers, and administrators. Without being asked, he was Ryder, and the honor of having Kennedy Richele named always lending a hand. after him. He was also brother-in-law to Louis and Kathy Boutin and Robert Boutin; uncle to Louis Jr., Christopher, An active member of the fire department and the com- and Patrick; devoted nephew to the late George Yeager; munity, Richie organized food drives through the Junior and a dear best friend for over 50 years to Fred and Lee Fire Department twice a year, overpacking the pantry Orth. He was a devoted and true Jets and Yankees fan. He every time. Pantry volunteers were always impressed was a true people person who left his hand print on the with Richie’s helpfulness and dedication. He also men- community and in our hearts! Remembering Allen R. Westby East Islip Fire Department – New York Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 22, 2014 Age: 67

l was born in Ridgewood, New York, and moved to through those years he served as lieutenant and captain. A East Islip when he was 12. He was He also ran for commissioner twice and drafted into the U.S. Army in January was elected both times. of 1966 and sent to Vietnam that September, less than a month after Al passed away after responding Joanne and he were married. Al to a call on September 22, 2014, returned home in September at the age of 67. of 1967 and was discharged from the Army in January of His is the beloved husband of 1968. Joanne, loving father of Chris (JoAnn) and Keith (Dana), Al moved back to East Islip cherished Pop of Christa, in July of 1969 and joined the Nicholas, Ryan, Peter, and Julia. East Islip Fire Department in January of 1971. He was He will always be in the hearts a member for 43 years, and of his family. Remembering James C. Wilber Franklin Fire Department – New York Volunteer Assistant Chief Date of Death: February 9, 2014 Age: 58

ames Wilber was born on April 7, 1955, care for their animals while they were away J to Frederick and Dorothy Wilber of or even performing yard work for them. Wells Bridge, New York. As a child he enjoyed spending time with his Jim was driven by a strong calling to family and being outdoors, a pas- serve his community. Day or night, sion that followed him the rest no matter what he was doing or of his life. how tired he was, he answered the call. He was a selfless man James became a volun- who would give anything he teer firefighter in 1972 had to help someone in need. when he joined the Wells He spent forty plus years of Bridge Volunteer Fire his life working to help his Department. After vol- community and loved every unteering with Wells moment of it. Jim cherished Bridge for several years he all of his brothers and sis- joined the Franklin Fire ters in the fire service and Department, where he con- thought of them all as fam- tinued to serve his commu- ily, whether he personally nity until his passing. knew them or not.

James became a very active Jim passed away on February 9, member of the Franklin Fire 2014, of a cardiac event on his Department, serving as an assis- way to a motor vehicle accident. tant chief and working on several He is survived by his wife, Susan; of the department’s committees, his son, Ken; his mother, Dorothy; such as the building committee. Jim his sister, Deb; and many nieces and worked with many of the other firemen nephews. in this department to earn several grants to purchase new trucks and gear and to put a very large Every year during the Christmas season, Jim would addition on the firehouse. Jim also served on the area’s always visit the angel tree in the local stores and look F.A.S.T. team. for children that were asking Santa for fire trucks. He would always pick out the coolest and most expensive Jim was an avid sportsman, who loved the outdoors. fire truck toys he could find and donate them to these He enjoyed hunting and fishing as well as riding ATVs. children in need. After his passing, his family founded Jim was the happiest when he was outdoors or spending Jim’s Fire Squad, a charity that donates fire department time with his family. He always found time to help out related toys to children’s hospitals. Like us on Facebook any friends and neighbors who were in need, helping to at https://www.facebook.com/jimsfiresquad. Remembering Ricky W. Doub Forbush Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Chief Date of Death: December 16, 2014 Age: 61

icky Wooten Doub was born February 2, Ricky was a 1971 graduate of Forbush High R 1953, in Yadkin County to the late School and went on to obtain an asso- William Allen Doub and Gaynell ciate degree. It was at this young Wooten Doub. Ricky was the age he met his wife, Judy Groce middle child of three boys, and Doub, whom he later married he was the owner and opera- on the 24th day of September tor of William Doub and Son in 1972. They enjoyed travel- Excavating. ing to the beach and riding the motorcycle with friends He served his community in their spare time. Ricky as a 29-year member of the was a lifelong active mem- Forbush Fire Department. ber of Baltimore United The last eight of those years Methodist Church. he served in the capacity of fire chief. Prior to that, The eight points of the he served in various capac- Maltese cross (Gallantry, ities, as assistant chief from Sympathy, Tact, Observation, 1991-2006, and as a mem- Perseverance, Loyalty, Dex­ ber of the board of direc- terity, and Explicitness) rep- tors until he was appointed resented the personality that fire chief in May 2006. While Ricky Doub presented to all. in the fire department Ricky Ricky was very close to his obtained his NC Firefighter I friends and family and was a lov- and II, Medical Responder, and ing husband, son, brother, uncle, Haz-Mat Operations certifications. and fire chief. He is survived by his He was awarded Firefighter of the Year wife of 42 years, Judy Doub; mother, and Medical Responder of the Year on Gaynell Doub; brothers, Larry and Kent numerous occasions for his department. He Doub; and several nieces and nephews. was dedicated to his community as fire chief, serving a population of 5,000 residents and being a leader of a Ricky enjoyed life, his church, the fire department and 50-member volunteer department. He was very active in community. He left a lasting impression on those he Yadkin County Fire and Rescue events and dedicated to loved and cared so much about with his commitment to providing first class fire protection and lifesaving skills. serve and his integrity. Remembering John Derek Gupton Justice Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: September 16, 2014 Age: 24

ohn Derek Gupton, 24 years old, was He was a man beyond his years and a positive J born on October 12, 1989, to proud influence on his peers. parents Tony and Jackie Gupton of Louisburg, North Carolina. He was Quotes from friends: a member of Duke Memorial Baptist Church. He gradu- “John made sure you knew his ated from Bunn High School name the first time you met him. in 2008 and received sev- Everyone looked forward to eral achievement awards. seeing him. His smile was con- In Boy Scouts, he received tagious. A go to guy who did the Order of the Arrow. not judge you for your prob- John started a grass cutting lems. He stood by his convic- company. He worked with tions but listened to others Franklin Livestock and and respected their opin- took great pride in learn- ion. He loved to cook and ing about cattle, vaccines, enjoyed cooking for friends. and riding horses to work Loved a practical joke never the cattle. He was a true pulled out of meanness, but modern day cowboy. He for the joy of laughter.” loved working on computers, was tech savvy, and enjoyed “We don’t get to decide when playing games with friends or how we may leave this world along with hunting and fishing. but one thing we do get to decide He was our only son, but friends is how we live while we are here. called him their brother. John chose to live with a smile on his face every day and to make people smile John joined the Justice Volunteer Fire whenever they were around. I hope we can Department in 2009. He followed his grandfa- all learn from John’s life and strive to be as happy ther and father, who were past members. John served as he was. Life is far too short to live in constant anger or his community with compassion and had a great respect sorrow. If you didn’t know him, you definitely missed out for it, and he had respect from the people in the Justice on a great man and a great friend.” community. “John was like cold sweet tea and buttery grits and ‘mater John loved his country and the history of it. He was sandwich...the best of the South and the best of America.” proud to be an American. He loved to read and had a wealth of knowledge. He loved to talk and enjoyed a He made the statement one day – He did not have a life good debate on politics and other topics that anyone story. On September 16, 2014, John’s life story began would discuss. When it came to work, he gave his all. with becoming a true hero in everyone’s eyes. Remembering Thomas Gerald Lee Four Oaks Volunteer Fire Department – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 1, 2014 Age: 67

homas Gerald Lee, born January 12, tornado. God blessed us, in our weakness. T 1947, lived with his family in the Our strength and faith were increased Benson area until he married Brenda as we realized God had protected Thomas in 1967. Family consisted our lives. Hope came as neighbors, of parents, Evelyn Hudson Lee friends, and volunteers provided and Thomas R. Lee; sisters, Kay help, supplies, food, and words and Rose; and brother, David. of encouragement. Recovery started that afternoon and is Gerald worked part-time still taking place. Everything jobs to support himself and we are given is a gift from family after the separa- God. God gives us things tion of his parents during to use to glorify him, and his high school years. The people to show us the way marriage of Gerald and to live. Brenda was blessed with two children, a daughter, On Saturday, February 1, Laura, in 1970, and a son, 2014, we lost a wonder- Anthony, in 1981. Laura ful example of how to live. married Michael Sherman, Another outpouring of love, and they have a son, Michael prayers, visits, and cards Lee Sherman. Anthony mar- came from family, friends, ried Rhonda Stanley, and they businesses, and fire depart- have a son, Brock Currens. ments across the United States. Gerald’s life may have been short Gerald owned and operated Four compared to others, but the impact Oaks Small Engine Repair for 36 of his life on others was so much more years. He served the community in vari- than he ever knew. ous positions with the Four Oaks Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years, Blackman’s Crossroads Everyone that knew Gerald had a Gerald story. I asked Volunteer Fire Department for 16 years, the Boy Scout them to write their Gerald story in the service bulletin. I and Girl Scout programs for 21 years, and Beulah Hill have received many and hope to receive more. Christian Church for 40 years. I hope God sends each of you a Gerald to show you the On April 16, 2011, we realized how quickly life as we way to heaven, for Gerald is now walking with his Lord know it can change. In a matter of minutes, a lifetime and Savior. We are left to show and tell others about the of material things was almost totally destroyed by a gift God has waiting for them. Remembering S. Brad McCoy Nantahala Fire & Rescue – North Carolina Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: November 21, 2014 Age: 36

tephen Bradley “Brad” McCoy was born on the spot with anyone that asked and give Son March 19, 1978, in Hiawassee, them scriptures to help them through. Georgia. He grew up in Marble, North Carolina riding dirt bikes, hunting, Brad is survived by his wife and fishing, swimming, and water ski- children; his loving father, ing. Brad went to Andrews High Steve McCoy; his mother, Kay School, where he held school McConnell; and his brother, records in both football and Brian McCoy. He is also sur- weightlifting. Although Brad vived by his parents-in-law, did not graduate, in 2005 he Raymond and Melissa Evans; received his GED with his his sister and brother-in- family standing by his side. law, Megan and Adam Mclean; his nieces and Brad married Amanda in nephew, Destiney, Delaney July 2002. Their daughter, and Dillon Mclean; his Daphne, was born in 2005, best friends, Michael and their son, Cole, in 2008. Sabrina Taylor, and their In 2010, the family moved daughter, Nahayla. from Marble to Nantahala, where Brad joined the On November 21, 2014, Brad Nantahala Volunteer Fire and Amanda awoke to their Department and became an home engulfed in flames. Brad active member. Brad wanted to saved his daughter, then returned be able to help people in need and to save his wife and son, not realiz- have the training to do what was best ing they had escaped through a win- for those involved. dow in the back of the house. Brad died searching for them. For the last few months of Brad’s life he worked at Con Met, assembling dashboards for Peterbilt and Brad McCoy was an amazing man--loving and kind, Freightliner trucks. Before that he worked for Bateman everyone’s friend, a bright and shining star in the mid- Trucking and for MIS. No matter what job Brad McCoy dle of a dark world. Brad loved to laugh and to make had, he always gave 110%. Brad believed in working other people laugh. He would go without things or hard and getting the job done right. drop whatever he was doing in order to help someone. A wonderful father, he took his children camping and Brad was a Christian who was saved early in his life and fishing and taught them to enjoy life and be good to oth- loved the Lord. An active member of Briartown Baptist ers. Brad was a loving husband who took care of his wife Church, he taught several Wednesday night services and showed her his love every day. Brad was a faithful and helped with Vacation Bible School every year. Brad friend and a caring son. loved to learn about God and tell others what God was doing for him and could do for them. Brad would pray Brad McCoy is and always will be our Hero. Remembering James A. Dickman Toledo Fire and Rescue Department – Ohio Career Firefighter Date of Death: January 26, 2014 Age: 31

amie Dickman loved God and his fam- to play the acoustic guitar, bass guitar, and J ily above all else. He had a wife and even a little drums and keyboard. He two beautiful children. His wife, also wrote several songs and played in a named Jamie, was his best friend couple of bands. Jamie played on the and biggest fan. Many referred praise and worship team at church. to them as “Jamie squared.” His He loved to talk about music and daughter, Paige, shares his love about God. Pairing the two for music and has his fun- together provided opportuni- loving personality; his son, ties to share his love for God. Grant, has his charm and sense of adventure. Paige Jamie had a heart of gold. He was a daddy’s girl, and loved people and went out Jamie would be proud that of his way to help others. his son is a mamma’s boy, His fun-loving personal- just like his daddy! ity made people want to be around him. You couldn’t Being a firefighter embod- know Jamie without having ied all that Jamie was. He a “Jamie” story. He did some loved the adrenaline rush, crazy things just to make the challenge, the con- people laugh. stant learning and growing, and the brotherhood. Jamie Jamie went on a mission trip to approached his career the way he Haiti in 2010. His group worked approached life, with full force and on numerous construction proj- high energy. Jamie was constantly ects, and he led worship for the daily researching and taking classes, keep- services. He taught a young boy to ing up to date on the latest technology and play guitar and then gave him his guitar techniques. He wrote grants and ran 5K races in to keep. He gave away his clothes and all of his full turnout gear to raise money to buy the best equip- other items including his suitcase! He came home with ment for safety and efficiency. Jamie cared deeply about only the clothes on his back. That trip changed his life keeping up morale and went out of his way to encour- and way of thinking in a powerful way. age, teach and joke around. He loved to laugh. Quite the prankster, he could take a joke as well as he dished it out. Not a day goes by that he is not missed. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend who made this Jamie also had a passion for music. He got his first elec- world a better place. Jamie took a big part of our heart tric guitar at age 14. After three lessons, Jamie became with him. He was more than a Rock Star; he was and is self-taught and dreamed of being a rock star. He learned our HERO. Remembering Steven J. Knaus Willowick Fire Department – Ohio Career Firefighter Date of Death: February 28, 2014 Age: 47

teven J. Knaus was born to Louis and there, he remained an avid fan of the sport SBeth Knaus in Euclid, Ohio, on and loved to catch the games on TV. August 9, 1966. The youngest of three children, he was raised in Steve and his wife, Louann, would Euclid with his siblings, Ron have been married for eleven years and Karen. He graduated from this October. Steve and Louann Euclid High School in 1984. lived in Cleveland with their He received his associate two bulldogs, Chloe and Meaty. degree in fire science from Steve was very active in the Lakeland Community and neighborhood and could attended the Cleveland always be counted on to vol- Fire Academy. Steve was unteer at any of the func- a 23-year veteran of the tions going on at our beach Cleveland Fire Department, club. He loved tending to his Ladder #31, as well as part- lawn and gardening. Most of time firefighter for the City all, Steve loved being a fire- of Willowick for the past fighter for both Cleveland 20 years. and Willowick and consid- ered both part of his family. Steve loved hockey. He began playing at a very young age Steve passed away on and continued to play through- February 28, 2014. He is loved out his years in high school. From and missed by so many. Remembering Stephen A. Machcinski Toledo Fire and Rescue Department – Ohio Career Firefighter Date of Death: January 26, 2014 Age: 42

tephen Arthur Machcinski was born as well. Steve inspired Rick to pursue becom- Son March 17, 1971, to Kenneth and ing a firefighter, and he now serves on the Sharon Machcinski. The middle child Fort Wayne Fire Department. of three, he had one older brother named Rick and one younger Steve was a man’s man, a rela- sister named Beth. He spent tively quiet guy who enjoyed the majority of his childhood the simple things in life. He growing up in the same city loved sports, especially the he would later serve as a Detroit Tigers, University firefighter. He competed of Michigan, Cleveland in track and field in high Browns, and the Toledo school, winning several Mudhens. (He rarely competitions. After high missed opening day for school, Steve graduated the Mudhens.) Because of from Owens Community his almost 16 years on the College with a degree in fire fire department, he devel- science. While he traveled oped a love of cooking for all over Michigan, Indiana, his brothers and sisters on and Ohio taking fire service the department. He enjoyed tests he worked for a local fishing, which he would do auto detailing company. often with friends and his dad. He loved meeting up with his Steve started his career with buddies for lunch at his favorite the Toledo Fire Department on restaurant, Nick & Jimmy’s, where March 20, 1998. The day he found you could find him enjoying a meal out he was accepted as a recruit for his and a Bud Light. He loved playing hometown’s fire department he called his poker with his buddies. sister to tell her and was so excited he could barely speak. He couldn’t believe his dream was coming Steve was a wonderful son, brother, and uncle. He loved true. He loved being a firefighter. He never wanted to his niece and nephew dearly and cherished his time do anything else. He passed away heroically doing the with them. job he loved on January 26, 2014, alongside one of his brothers on the department, James “Jamie” Dickman. Steve is survived by his parents, Ken and Sharon Machcinski; his brother, Rick (Terri) Machcinski; his Steve and his brother, Rick, shared a special bond being sister, Beth (Chris) Hoye; and his niece and nephew, not only biological brothers, but brothers in fire service Grace and Brandon Hoye. Remembering Kevin J. Ollier Anderson Township Fire & Rescue Department – Ohio Career Firefighter Date of Death: September 5, 2014 Age: 60

evin J. Ollier, 60, of Union Township, Kevin was an Anderson Township and for- K Ohio, passed away suddenly on mer Union Township firefighter and September 5, 2014. He was the father paramedic. He was also a registered of Elisabeth Ollier, the beloved son nurse for U.C. Medical Center. of Ann and the late Martin Ollier, a loving brother to Kathy Jurgens Kevin was an avid runner and (John), Keith Ollier (Eleanor), swimmer and loved animals. and Teresa Dickson (Gibbs). He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Remembering James Thomas “Tom” Rhamey Western Holmes County Fire and EMS – Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: November 28, 2014 Age: 71

om Rhamey served proudly as a mem- loved watching all sporting events, especially T ber, former captain, first responder, NASCAR and the Ohio State Buckeye and firefighter with the Lakeville teams. He also enjoyed attending his Volunteer Fire Department for grandchildren’s events. 55 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran of Vietnam and was He is survived by his wife of awarded a Bronze Star medal 50 years, Saundra (Stitzlein) for his service. Tom also Rhamey; a son, Scott Rhamey; served as a member of the a daughter, Karissa Rhamey Ohio National Guard in its Ulmer (C. Wesley Ulmer Jr); fire brigade. and five grandchildren.

Tom was an insurance A lifelong Lutheran, agent and member of the Tom was a member of board of directors of a Zion Lutheran Church of mutual insurance com- Loudonville, Ohio. pany, operating his own agency. Tom was a wonderful, funny, common sense guy, Tom enjoyed collecting who would be embarrassed antique Massey-Harris farm by this attention, but he served tractors and tinkering with proudly and was totally dedi- anything mechanical. His many cated to his family, his commu- trophies attest to his skill for mak- nity, and his country. ing the old things run better. His favorite statement: “I don’t want to As a former basketball, baseball, and soft- be in the parade – I just want to be there ball athlete Tom coached youth teams and when they march by.” Remembering Bruce A. Stayner Scioto Township Fire Department – Ohio Volunteer Lieutenant Date of Death: February 4, 2014 Age: 49

ou cannot talk about Scioto Township Andrew, their kids also. Bruce was so proud Y Fire without mentioning the name of his children and grandchildren and was Bruce Stayner. Lieutenant Stayner was always there to help with whatever they not just a firefighter; he was the face needed. Kevin would say that he could of the department. He was the one call his dad about the house or a the community saw most often, vehicle and tell him what kind of helping with numerous orga- sound it was making ,and Bruce nizations and involvement would tell him what needed in the community. He was a fixed. Bruce had the joy of member of the fire service serving alongside Matthew for 30 years. and Andrew on Scioto Township Fire Department. Bruce’s love for firefight- ing was a lifelong com- Bruce had the joy of becom- mitment. His father was ing a grandpa just seven a firefighter, and both of short months before his his sons earned their EMT death. Charles “Logan” status. He was so proud of Stayner came into our lives, both of his sons’ achieve- and Bruce was so proud of ments. Just one month before this little boy and got to enjoy Bruce’s death, he got to see his him, if only for a little while. youngest son get accepted into the Dayton Fire Academy. Bruce always had a smile and was always willing to help everyone do He met his wife, Gwen, in high anything that was asked of him, most school, and they enjoyed 30 years of times neglecting projects that needed fin- married life together. They did everything ished at his own house. We joke that he was together, from volunteering to service to their the “king of unfinished projects.” community to their annual day after Thanksgiving shopping trip. He would joke that he had three jobs on He enjoyed cooking, camping, and gardening. He was the shopping trip—park the car, get a cart, and get in proud of his garden, growing tomatoes. He would pick line. Bruce and Gwen were together most of the time the tomatoes and share them with everyone he knew. when they weren’t at work. Every morning it was a kiss He took pride in doing things for others. and, “See you later.” as he went to work. The day Bruce passed away, our family was forever They had two children, Kevin and Matthew. Although changed. Bruce thought of his fire department and com- anybody that knew Bruce and his wife knew that they munity as his family as well. We all have such great mem- considered their niece, Nichole, and their nephew, ories of Bruce. “This is not goodbye; it’s see you later.” Remembering Matthew Goodnature Pacific Oasis, Inc. – Oregon Contract Firefighter Date of Death: July 29, 2014 Age: 21

atthew David Goodnature was Matt was a loving young man. He made M born on June 25, 1993, in friends easily and had more of them Medford, Oregon, to David and Judy than you could count. Whatever he Goodnature. decided to do, he pursued it with all his heart. He lived his life to the Matthew passed away due to a fullest. fall on Tuesday, July 29, 2014, while fighting the Launch He worked a series of jobs Fire near Fourmile Lake in until he replied to an adver- Klamath County, Oregon. tisement looking for a “good natured person” on Matt grew up in Phoenix, Craigslist. He responded to Oregon, with his sis- the ad, was hired by Pacific ter, Jessica, and brother, Oasis for the 2013 fire sea- Nate. He played baseball son, and did the required and football. He enjoyed training to become a wild- road and downhill biking. land firefighter. After his Shooting baskets around first fire call, Matt fell in love the corner occupied a lot of with that job, his coworkers, his time. He also loved skate- and his employer. boarding, snowboarding, and just being outside. He returned in the spring of 2014 for his second season of He enjoyed watching basketball fighting fires. He got a high degree on TV and was so excited when he of satisfaction from battling forest got to see his favorite team, the New fires. He loved the hard work, the out- York Knicks, play the Trailblazers at the doors, providing a vital service, and most Rose Garden. He was also able to take in several of all he loved his fellow firefighters. We knew he Yankees games as they matched up against the Mariners was willing to sacrifice his life for them if need be or to in Seattle. protect the homes and lives of strangers. Remembering Samir P. “Sam” Ashmar Upper Macungie Township Bureau of Fire, Station 56 – Pennsylvania Volunteer Fire Marshal Date of Death: November 20, 2014 Age: 51

amir (Sam) P. Ashmar was born May 25, tant to the Pennsylvania State Police fire S1963, in Beirut, Lebanon, to Fadel marshal and held memberships in Ashmar and Rommy “Youmna” the International, National and Ashmar. He was one of six sib- Pennsylvania Association of Arson lings, including his brother, Investigators. He also served on Andrew Ashmar, and sis- the board of directors for the ters, Haya “Jacqui” Howells, Burn Prevention Foundation, Marina Giovannini, Nawel Allentown, from 2000 to 2009. Varno, and Sabina Kineen. In 1967, his family moved He held the following certifi- from Beirut to Allentown, cations: Fire and Explosion Pennsylvania. Investigator, Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Fire Officer, Samir was the husband of Fire Instructor, Basic Vehicle Sharon L. (Miller) Ashmar. Rescue, Basic Rescue They were married 27 years Practices, Introduction to this past April. They have Farm Emergencies, Managing two daughters, Makala and Tractor Overturns, Managing Sierra, and one son, Joshua. Machinery Entanglements, Samir was predeceased by his First Responder, and Fire- daughter Sierra. fighter I and Firefighter II State Testing Evaluator. Samir was vice president in the Credit Management Group for He received several honors and Wells Fargo, Reading office, and was awards for his service, including employed in the banking industry for the 2010 Valley Preferred Partners in over 25 years. Prevention Award, the 2009 Firefighter of the Year by Good Will Fire Company No. 1 Sam faithfully served Upper Macungie Township as Trexlertown, and the 2002 Hurst Green Cross Award for vice chairman of the Board of Supervisors, the Planning Vehicle Rescue. Commission, and Authority since 2006. He was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church, He was a volunteer firefighter since 1982, presently Wescosville. serving as fire marshal and EMT for Upper Macungie Township Station 56, and previously served the Good Sam was a hardworking, selfless, and supportive role Will Fire Company, No. 1 Trexlertown, and Lower model to his family and friends and will be dearly Macungie Township Station 30. Sam was an assis- missed. Remembering Joyce M. Craig Philadelphia Fire Department – Pennsylvania Career Lieutenant Date of Death: December 9, 2014 Age: 37

oyce Michelle Craig was born to James served with Engine 9, Engine 45, Ladder 21, J Edward Craig and Carol Ginger and Engine 64, and will always be remem- Craig on June 7, 1977, in Philadelphia, bered as a “firefighter’s firefighter.” Pennsylvania. In her service to the community, Joyce was a loving, outgoing, Firefighter Craig continually tough as nails and hardwork- demonstrated her duty-bound ing mother, sister, and friend. commitment to the saving of When she went after a goal, lives and the preservation she didn’t stop until her of property. Regrettably, on goal was attained. Tuesday, December 9, 2014, Firefighter Joyce Craig was She grew up in the City of killed in the line of duty. She Philadelphia and attended was posthumously promoted Cook - Wissahickon to the rank of fire lieutenant Elementary School, William on January 12, 2015. Levering Middle School, and Murrell Dobbins Vocational Joyce loved her family and High School, where she was all about keeping the fam- majored in printing. ily together. She was the aunt to go to for cool school clothes, Joyce always demonstrated a name-brand sneakers, and trips. self-sacrificing spirit, and this She was also there to counsel and led her to becoming trained as an guide the younger ones. Joyce was EMT, a job she held for many years. tough, but at the same time, loved to However, her passion was to become have her hair and nails done and wore a firefighter. “It was a dream of mine the best Mohawks ever! Always styling! since I was five.” She admired the firefighters on Ridge and Midvale (Engine 35 – Ladder 25), where Joyce is survived by her parents, James E. Craig she lived and began seeking to accomplish this goal by and Carol G. Craig. She leaves behind a son, Mekhi studying for hours on end, explaining to her sisters the D. Green, and a daughter, Laylani C. Lewis. Also difference between various fire hydrants and trucks. mourning her loss is her grandmother, Joyce M. Craig; aunt, Claudia “Laverne” Battle; two sisters, Firefighter Joyce Craig served as a member of the La Farist Makasi and Uris S. Payton; two broth- Philadelphia Fire Department with valor and distinc- ers, Kareem R.B. Meads and Michael E. Craig; one tion. She graduated from the Firefighter Academy, brother-in-law, Antonio D. Makasi; and a host of Fire Class 178, in March 2004. During her career, she nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Remembering Christi M. Rodgers Robert Fulton Fire Company – Pennsylvania Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: October 24, 2014 Age: 26

wenty-six years of age, Christi was an as a crew chief for Providence Township T active firefighter/EMT and the Ambulance Association and as a fire- medical officer and secretary for the fighter/EMT with the Pequea Fire Robert Fulton Fire Company. She Company in Pequea, Pennsylvania. received 2013 Firefighter of the Year, as well as being one of the Christi loved her son, Conner top ten responders for that year. Patrick Rodgers (“CPR”) and Christi was also a crew chief her husband, James Patrick for Wakefield Ambulance Rodgers II. Christi and James Association. Both compa- were married on May 25, nies are located in Peach 2013. Conner Rodgers was Bottom, Pennsylvania. born on September 19, 2014. The family resided Christi worked as a in Peach Bottom, scheduler and care- Pennsylvania, where James giver for Caring Matters and Conner still reside. Incorporated. She loved the outdoors, where she Christi is also survived by hunted and fished. Christi her father, David Jackson; her grew up playing soccer and mother, Janice Jackson; her later became an assistant coach brother, D.J. Jackson; brother- for the Penn Manor Soccer in-law, Jermel Johnson; and her Club. Christi was a girl scout and parents-in-law, James and Debra received the Silver Award. She loved Rodgers. rooting for the Baltimore Ravens. Christi was a great influence to all and Following in her father and brother’s foot- had a knack for keeping you on your toes. steps, Christi joined the fire service at the age A few of her sayings are still used around the of fourteen as a junior firefighter for Rawlinsville Fire firehouse and ambulance building to this day. Christi Company, in Holtwood, Pennsylvania. She also served will be greatly missed by her friends and family. Remembering E. Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel Youngwood Volunteer Fire Department – Pennsylvania Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: March 22, 2014 Age: 57

dwin Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel was born and friends. He loved to travel and shared EOctober 16, 1956, to the late Howard memories of his adventures with anyone and Irma Wentzel. The youngest of willing to listen. seven children, he was raised in Youngwood, Pennsylvania, a On February 12, 1979, he joined small community close to his the Youngwood Volunteer Hose heart, where he remained his Company No. 1 and became a entire life. He had a passion life member. Throughout his for life, strong determination years he served as assistant and pride, and a willingness chief, captain and lieutenant, to help anyone in need. It and assisted with numer- came as no surprise that ous committees. In 2012, he would become a volun- he was chosen Firefighter teer firefighter. In his last of the Year by his fellow moments, as he assisted firefighters. He volun- in the search for a missing teered at Ground Zero in woman with his depart- the aftermath of the terror- ment’s K-9 Team, he was ist attacks of September 11, struck by a train. Jeff often 2001, and was a member of related that, should he die in the 14th Quartermaster fam- the line of duty, we were to ily support group. stand tall and proud, because he would have done something His smile, laughter, and touch that was true to his beliefs. will forever be missed by his wife, Judith Wentzel; his son, Christopher To his family and coworkers, he was Wentzel, and daughter-in-law, Nicole; Jeff, but to many others he was known as and his son, Jeremy Wentzel. His grand- “Lance”, a nickname given to him by childhood children, Nevaeh, Oscar, and Urijah Wentzel, friends. He graduated from Hempfield Area High School filled him with enormous joy, and he loved hearing their in 1975 and participated in track, football, and basketball small voices call out, “Pappy!” He is deeply missed as throughout his school years. His dedication to running well by his stepsons, Jason and Justin Vestrand. Sharing remained with him throughout his life. He participated in in our sorrow are his siblings, Philip Wentzel, Judith and numerous marathons, and his neighborhood misses his Don Wagner, Bonnie and George Kucenic, Connie and friendly waves past their homes on his daily runs. Michael Watson, and Doris and Anthony Santone, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Jeff was known for his quick smile, sense of humor, and spontaneity. He was never at a loss for words and could The special bond he shared with his fellow firefighters put anyone at ease. He was a simple and humble man will live on through their dedication to continue in the who wanted nothing more than to be with his family same path. Remembering John M. Burns Myrtle Beach Fire Department – South Carolina Career Lieutenant Date of Death: December 3, 2014 Age: 50

t. John Morgan Burns was born and also volunteered for the Horry County Fire L raised in South Charleston, West Department at Lake Arrowhead for sev- Virginia. After graduating from high eral years, the Horry County Rescue school he joined the U.S. Army, Squad, and Myrtle Beach Rescue serving in the 82nd Airborne for Squad. He served on the Urban three years. During that time he Search and Rescue Team for the met his wife, Tami, and moved state of South Carolina and to Myrtle Beach, South the regional team. Lieutenant Carolina. Burns retired from Myrtle Beach Fire Department after John was originally hired 25 years and was rehired. by Myrtle Beach Fire Department as a dispatcher He was dedicated to his and worked his way up career, community, and through the ranks to his family, especially his position of lieutenant. He daughter, Morgan. Remembering Kellen A. Fleming Westview-Fairforest Fire Department – South Carolina Career Firefighter Date of Death: November 1, 2014 Age: 29

ellen Andrew Fleming, 29, loving hus- Kellen was a firefighter with Westview-Fairforest K band of Amy Thompson Fleming, Fire Department, a volunteer with Chesnee went home to be with the Lord on Community Fire Department, and also Saturday, November 1, 2014. worked for Spartanburg County EMS and TransMed. Born January 25, 1985, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, He attended First Baptist he was the son of Cathy Cox North Spartanburg where he Leichter and the late Eric was a member of the media Todd Fleming. ministry. Remembering Jerry Campbell Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Forestry – Tennessee Career Seasonal Forestry Aide 1 Date of Death: March 1, 2014 Age: 61

erry was born December 20, 1952, at mountains and hunting, and assists those in J home in Grassy Fork to Dallas and the community that need help. He loved Ruby Campbell. He was one of six chil- them all as brothers and enjoyed every dren. He had an older brother, JH, moment of his time with them. and four sisters, Grace, Zanna, Elouise, and Estalee. He had a In 2010, Jerry joined the Forestry special bond with his sisters, but Service as a seasonal wild- he and his older brother devel- land firefighter at the Cocke oped an inseparable bond County Work Center. There which endured throughout he worked on crews that sup- their lives. He grew up in the pressed numerous wildland Edwina community, where fires in the East Tennessee he helped to raise his sisters District and earned the and spent much of his time respect and admiration in the mountains. of his crew. He was dedi- cated and committed to Jerry worked in manu- protecting life, property, facturing for many years. and the forest resources that He was considered a dedi- he loved. There he added cated, dependable, honest another chapter to his family. team member and earned the respect of his supervisors and Jerry was a quiet man who loved his coworkers. His heart, how- the outdoors and enjoyed the ever, always remained in the out- simple things in life. He enjoyed doors and the mountains. hunting, fishing, camping, garden- ing, and playing with and teaching his He was a senior member of the Poor Boys nephews. He had a quiet strength and was Bear Club, a hunting club in the Edwina com- always ready to lend a hand. He had a relation- munity that works to preserve hunters’ rights, ensure a ship with God that glowed in his face. Jerry left a lasting strong and healthy animal population, teach the next impression on those he knew and loved and will always generation respect, ethics, and outdoor skills for the be in our hearts. Remembering Gus Losleben Hardin County Fire Department – Tennessee Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: December 9, 2014 Age: 69

us Losleben, age 69, departed this life on 23 acres of raw land in 2009 in rural Savannah, G Tuesday, December 9, 2014, at the Tennessee, and built their dream farm age of 69. Gus was killed in the line raising organic produce and managing of duty from injuries sustained in a their herd of dairy goats, making terrible crash en route to a house butter and cheeses and tending fire. their flock of chickens.

He was born on November 3, Gus became a volunteer fire- 1945, in Bethlehem, fighter in 2010, as he felt a call Pennsylvania, to the late to duty when District 6 fire- Gustav W. and Marian fighters responded to what Kennedy Losleben of Fort ended up being a false alarm Myers, Florida . at the farm. After joining, he found that he loved the Gus served in the United fire department and the States Navy from 1965 camaraderie, the sense of until 1969 as an aviation family and brotherhood. electronics technician in radio and navigation, Gus will be especially attaining the rank of petty remembered as an honor- officer second class. able and honest, giving man, avid photographer, wood Gus worked at Florida Power & worker, and gardener. He loved Light in instrument and control as the ocean, sailing, mystery novels, an itinerant specializing in nuclear and jigsaw puzzles. He also loved to power plant overhauls all over Florida play the piano and sing in the privacy from February 1982 and as chief job of his home. steward for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers until retiring in December 2004. He is loved and missed by all who knew him. His final ride was in Ladder 64, his favorite big boy toy. In After retiring, Gus and his wife, Megan Tennille honor of his love of the water, his remains will become Patrick, traveled all over the United States for two part of the Eternal Reef system in Sarasota Bay, Florida, years, searching for a place to start a farm. They bought on October 11, 2015. Remembering Thomas T. Araguz III Wharton Volunteer Fire Department — Texas Volunteer Captain Date of Death: July 3, 2010 Age: 30

homas Trevino Araguz III, age 30, of Volunteer Fire Department, he joined the T Wharton, Texas, died on July 3, department at age 19 and had recently 2010, while fighting a fire at a local been promoted to captain. He was also farm. He was born in Wharton a Wharton County reserve sheriff ’s on June 30, 1980, the son of deputy. Thomas Araguz Jr. and Simona Rodriguez Longoria. Thomas enjoyed camping and was a great cook and a World Thomas grew up in Wharton War II history buff. He was and graduated from a loving father to his sons, Wharton High School and Trevor Thomas Araguz and Wharton County Junior Tyler Michael Araguz. College. He held certifi- cates in police, fire and He poured his heart and EMT-basic. An 11-year soul into being a good veteran with the Wharton father and firefighter. Remembering Hugh B. Ferguson III Damon Volunteer Fire Department – Texas Volunteer Chief Date of Death: April 22, 2014 Age: 52

ugh Virgle “Bubba” Ferguson, III, was Bubba got a job for a construction company, H born on September 30, 1961, in which took the family to Corpus Christi Wharton, Texas, to Ann and Hugh V. for four years and then to Malone, New Ferguson, Jr. Bubba was raised in York. Bubba remained a happy-go- Damon, along with his sisters, lucky person no matter where the Melissa and Denise, and his road took him. Not long after brother, Chris. their return to Damon, Bubba was made fire chief. The nickname “Bubba” was given to him by the citizens Bubba was an exemplary of Damon, where he was husband to Andrea and well known. When he was father to his two sons, little, he would ride on his Dustin and Sean. A good tricycle through downtown provider, he made sure his Damon wearing only his wife and sons had every- underwear, and they would thing they needed. He was call out “Hey, Bubba!” selfless and always put oth- ers first. If anyone needed He was inspired to become him, he was always there. a firefighter at a young age, Bubba was so proud of the after learning the details men that his sons became. of his Uncle Tommy’s death Andrea and Bubba celebrated in Vietnam. He vowed that if their 30th wedding anniversary becoming a firefighter would save on August 31, 2014. even one person from a tragic death, then that was what his calling would be. Bubba proudly served on the Damon School Board for many years and was Bubba began his education at Damon proud to present the fire prevention program to Elementary. He was eager to learn, loved going to the Damon students. school, and served as a good role model and leader. When Bubba turned 15 and was able to drive, he joined In 2009, Derek James Ferguson was born to Dustin and the Damon Volunteer Fire Department. Firefighting Katie, giving Bubba the other nickname that he loved and fire training soon became his passion. the best—“Paw.” They were best buddies, and this little boy melted Bubba’s heart. Now we will have the third After graduating from West Columbia High School, generation of Ferguson firefighters. Bubba worked as a rice farmer. He loved farming dur- ing the week and going out dancing on the weekends. In Bubba left a lasting impression on everyone he met and 1981, at a dance, Bubba met the love of his life, Andrea. will always be missed. He was instrumental in building The rest, as they say, is history. Bubba and Andrea were the Damon Fire Department to what it is today. His pride married on August 31, 1983. He was 21, and she was 18. and leadership will live on in the department forever. Remembering Daniel David Groover Houston Fire Department – Texas Career Captain Date of Death: July 9, 2014 Age: 46

aniel D. Groover from Engine 104 joined the Houston Fire Department. He served as D the Houston Fire Department after a firefighter/paramedic for 17 years, and returning home from serving five in 2013 he opted to go back to fire- years in the U.S. Army. He was a fighting. Danny and his fellow fire- second generation firefighter; his fighters were fighting a two-story father, Captain Gary S. Groover house fire when he lost his life on (retired), was a Houston fire- July 9, 2014. fighter for over 30 years. As an only child, Danny wanted Danny was a wonderful, quiet, to follow in his father’s loving, caring man and will footsteps and joined the be missed by so many. He Houston Fire Department impacted so many people in in 1993. his short life. You are gone, but you will While in the military, never be forgotten. Danny was a medic and worked in the emergency With all my Love, room in Germany, so it was easy for him to volunteer Ellie Groover, to become a paramedic for Widow of Daniel D. Groover Remembering W. Scott Tanksley Dallas Fire-Rescue Department – Texas Career Firefighter/Paramedic Date of Death: February 10, 2014 Age: 40

allas Fire-Rescue Officer William “Scott” Wayne, and Lynlee Grace. Scott was very active DTanksley answered his last alarm on in his children’s lives. He could often be February 10, 2014. He was working an found coaching his son’s Little League accident scene when he was hit by a baseball team or cheering Laynee on car and knocked from an icy over- from the sidelines in volleyball. He pass. He served with Dallas Fire- enjoyed coaching his children, Rescue for 14 years. not just in sports but in life. An avid outdoorsman, he instilled Scott was born November 1, the love of hunting in his chil- 1973, to Wayne and Nita dren as it was instilled in him Tanksley. His early love of by his father. He took every baseball set the wheels in opportunity to share the motion for a life dream of seat next to him in the deer playing baseball profes- stand with Laynee or Levi sionally. In 1992, set to or to play dress up and color graduate from Kemp High with Lynlee Grace. A doting School, he was drafted by father, he took time to share the Baltimore Orioles. He his love of cooking with kept his commitment with Laynee, snuggle and watch Mississippi State University movies with Lynlee Grace, to play for the Bulldogs. Scott and spend quiet time waiting had an extraordinary college for first light during duck season career pitching for MSU. He with Levi. He was a family man earned Mizuno Freshman All- through and through. American in 1993. The Minnesota Twins franchise drafted Scott his junior On September 3, 2014, Scott was hon- year at MSU. Scott’s brief professional base- ored with the Star of Texas Award, which ball career ended after three years when he suf- is given to honor police officers, firefighters, fered a shoulder injury. and emergency medical technicians who are seriously hurt or killed in the line of duty. Scott’s family proudly He went back to a quiet, simpler life in his rural home- accepted this honor on his behalf. town of Kemp, Texas. On February 14, 1998, Scott mar- ried the love of his life, Wendi. In 1999, he joined the Scott is survived by his wife, Wendi; his beautiful chil- Dallas Fire-Rescue family and began a life of serving dren, Laynee, Levi, and Lynlee Grace; his parents, Wayne others. If Scott wasn’t on duty at the station, he could and Nita Tanksley; sisters, Nicki Stephens (Keith) and be found working alongside his best friend and father, Christi Lively (Chris); his Dallas Fire-Rescue brothers; Wayne, in the electrical business. and a host of family and friends.

Over the next eight years, Scott and Wendi welcomed his He was a quiet person who was always willing to help three biggest accomplishments, Laynee Elizabeth, Levi others without asking for anything in return. Remembering Michael Dale “Mikey” Garrett Nutter Fort Fire Department – West Virginia Volunteer Firefighter Date of Death: February 1, 2014 Age: 28

ichael Dale “Mikey” Garrett was counties in West Virginia and several sur- M born on October 7, 1985, in rounding states. He was employed at Clarksburg, West Virginia, to Dale Upshur County EMS as an EMT-I, as and Faith Garrett. Mikey was the an instructor for RESA 7 at WVU middle of five children, having an Fire School, and as firefighter/ older sister and brother and two EMT-I and treasurer at Nutter younger sisters. Mikey’s pas- Fort Fire Department. sion in life was helping others; he also had a great sense of In addition to training for the humor, a smile for everyone, fire and EMS fields, Mikey and he left a lasting impres- attended Department of sion on everyone he met. Homeland Security training in Anniston, Alabama. Mikey began his EMS and firefighter career at the age While juggling college of 15 by attending the Junior classes, work, and volun- EMS Camp at Harrison teering, Mikey still found County EMS. At age 16, he time for family functions became a junior firefighter at and parties, vacations with Nutter Fort Fire Department. family and friends, and events His love for the EMS field led such as the Tough Mudder him to complete all classes to with friends. test and obtain his EMT-B certi- fication a few weeks after his 18th A scholarship fund has been estab- birthday. From there, Mikey went on lished in memory of Mikey to assist to obtain his EMT-I certification and was residents of West Virginia in obtaining due to graduate from Pierpont Community their EMT-B or EMT-P certifications. and Technical College in May 2014 with an asso- ciate degree in emergency services. Mikey is survived by his parents; sisters, Julie, Anna and Katie; brother, Justin; maternal grandparents, Joe During his career, Mikey worked with numerous vol- and Nancy Scardina; several nieces and nephews; and unteer fire departments and EMS agencies in several numerous extended family members. Remembering George D. Underwood Lake Volunteer Fire Department – West Virginia Volunteer Chief Date of Death: April 3, 2014 Age: 63

eorge Dillard Underwood was a gentle a star baseball pitcher at Logan High School, G giant, known and loved by many. and in 1970 he was drafted to play minor His passion for helping others was evi- league baseball for the Baltimore dent daily, and his passing has pro- Orioles in Aberdeen, South Dakota. foundly affected the community He also had a huge fan following and all who knew him. George as a WCW wrestler known as served as chief of the Lake The Cuban Assassin, and he Volunteer Fire Department enjoyed fishing and hunting. for 25 years. He was totally dedicated to serving and On January 21, 1978, protecting the Lake, Mill George married Carolyn Creek, and Garret Fork Ball Underwood, and they communities where he made their home in the grew up. He enjoyed train- Lake Community for the ing, mentoring, and lead- next 36 years. George is also ing the many firefighters survived by two daughters, who served throughout the two sons, two brothers, five years. He especially enjoyed sisters, eleven grandchildren, the fire department’s par- two great-grandchildren, and ticipation in projects that a host of friends and relatives. involved safety training or dis- tributing gifts to the children George was a loving husband, in his area. For many years, he father, grandfather, brother, and also served as an auxiliary dep- uncle. His warm smile, quick wit, uty for the Logan County Sheriff’s helping nature, and fun-loving ways Department. endeared him to all who knew him and earned him the respect of the citizens of the George was born on December 1, 1950, at Mill communities in which he served. Creek, in Logan County, West Virginia. He entered into eternal rest on Thursday, April 3, 2014, while serving George would have been in absolute awe of the emo- the Lake Community. He was preceded in death by his tional outpouring at his memorial services. He was an birthmother, one brother, one sister, and his loving par- unassuming man who expected nothing in return for ents, Bill and Erma Underwood. his service. A social media post shortly after his death summed up George’s character: “What a good man he George grew up at Mill Creek, and with the love, encour- was…awfully big shoes to fill.” agement, and guidance of Bill and Erma, he participated in Boy Scouts, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, and LAST CALL – Unit 401 – LAST CALL – Rest in Peace exceled as a Little League Baseball player. George was George Underwood Remembering Ted F. Drake Wyoming State Forestry Division – Wyoming Career Fire Crew Supervisor Date of Death: May 17, 2014 Age: 63

ed F. Drake, of Newcastle, Wyoming, ing at High Country Ranch and as a fire- T and Rochford, South Dakota, died man for the Rochford Fire Department. unexpectedly on May 17, 2014. His latest employment was with the Wyoming State Forestry Division in Mr. Drake was born September 30, Newcastle, Wyoming. His favorite 1950, in Mitchell, South Dakota, pastimes were going to garage the son of Theodore and sales, auctions, and reading. Lorraine “La Rayne” Drake. He also looked forward to an He was raised in eastern annual family fishing event South Dakota and gradu- held on Memorial Day week- ated from New Underwood end and pheasant hunting in High School in 1968. In the fall. 1974, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, cum He is survived by his wife, laude, from the National Sandra; daughters, Sarah College of Business in (Chris) Failla and Angela Rapid City, South Dakota. Drake, both of California; On October 16, 1984, he three grandsons; broth- married Sandra Davidson in ers, Tim (Mona) Drake and Denver, Colorado. Bob (Pam) Drake; sisters, Kerrill (Joe) Morrison, Kay He was employed in the oil (Herb) Shadewald, and Lisa business as a controller of dif- (Dennis) DeKraai; Robert Fritz ferent companies before moving and family; Sandra’s family; and to Hill City, South Dakota, work- many friends. “Every action in our lives touches on some chord that will vibrate in eternity.” — Edwin Hubbel Chapin National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

ongress created the National Fallen Firefighters Award scholarships to fire service survivors Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to honor C 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 and its partners have awarded honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes more than $3 million 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 Firefighters Memorial Weekend Under a Department of Justice grant, the Foundation 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 the incident planning support. Immediately after a death, weekend activities that include special programs for a Local Assistance State Team is available, by request, survivors and coworkers along with moving public cer- to provide technical assistance and personal support to emonies. The Memorial Weekend activities are televised help the department and the family. Team members 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 Work to prevent line-of-duty deaths When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the Foundation provides survivors with a place to turn. With the support of fire and life safety organizations, the Families receive emotional assistance through a Fire Foundation launched the “Everyone Goes Home®” cam- Service Survivors Network. This Network matches paign in 2004. Its goal is to reduce firefighter deaths. survivors with similar experiences and circumstances. This contact can be an important part of their healing. Create a National Memorial Park Families receive a bi-monthly newsletter and special- The Foundation is expanding the national memo- ized grief resources. Our Web site provides informa- rial site in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to create the first tion on Federal, State and local survivor benefits and permanent national park hon- other resources. An annual Fire oring all firefighters. The park Service Survivors Conference includes a brick Walk of Honor® offers life skills workshops and that connects the National Fallen a chance to network with other Firefighters Memorial Chapel survivors. The Hal Bruno Camp and the official national monu- for Children of Fallen Firefighters ment. A statue honoring the fire- provides a weekend bereavement fighters who died in the World camp combined with fun activi- Trade Center, “To Lift a Nation,” ties for the children. was added to the park in 2007. Board of Directors

Officers Advisory Committee

Chief Dennis Compton – Chairman Barry Balliet International Fire Service Training Association Provident Mesa, Arizona Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

William Webb – Vice Chairman Chief Keith Bryant Executive Director, Congressional Fire Services Institute City of Oklahoma City Fire Department Washington, D.C. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Seth Statler – Treasurer Chief Kevin Cooney Associate Administrator for Legislative and South Windsor Fire Department Intergovernmental Affairs, NASA, Washington, D.C. South Windsor, Connecticut Vina Drennan – Secretary Carol Jones Fire Service Survivor, Jersey City, New Jersey Fire Service Survivor Members Haslet, Texas Kelly Kirwan Mary Bynum Motorola Solutions (Ret) Assistant Vice President, P&C Underwriting Gilbert, Arizona State Farm Insurance Companies, Bloomington, Illinois Deputy Chief William Goldfeder Michael Robertson Loveland-Symmes Fire Department, Loveland, Ohio Executive Director Military Firefighter Heritage Foundation Chief Charles Hood Goodfellow AFB, Texas San Antonio Fire Department, San Antonio, Texas Chief Leonard King Athena Schwantes-Hodge Maryland Fire Service, Annapolis, Maryland Fire Service Survivor, Fayetteville, Georgia Troy Markel Steve VanderGriend President, VFIS, York, Pennsylvania Fire Service Survivor, Reedley, California Mark Moon Executive Vice President and Ex-Officio Member President, Sales and Product Operations Motorola Solutions, Schaumburg, Illinois Chief Ernest Mitchell Harold Schaitberger Administrator General President U.S. Fire Administration International Association of Fire Fighters Emmitsburg, Maryland Washington, D.C.

Chief Philip Stittleburg Executive Director Chairman, National Volunteer Fire Council Washington, D.C. Chief Ronald Jon Siarnicki National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Emmitsburg, Maryland NFFF Corporate Advisory Committee

John Granby – Chair Alex Hannah Joey Underwood Lion ICMA-RC Sylvia Holmes Safety Components Jennifer Sickmann Chris Rovenstine 3M Neal Zipser Jeff Emery Kidde Scott Safety Ed Klima Mark Rossi Dhiren Chauhan Mary Bynum Dover International Speedway Motorola Solutions State Farm

Norfleet Smith Jr. Ken Willette Geoff Evans DuPont NFPA Streamlight

Nate Olds Bill Lawson Troy Markel Claire Miller PBI VFIS Honeywell Jim Johnson Mark Youngs Sara Yerkes Pierce Manufacturing Youngs Financial ICC Barry Balliet Provident Benefits

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

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Department of Health and Human Services

National Institute of Standards and Technology Department of Commerce

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

Legacy Bronze Art Glatfelter American Fire Sprinkler Assoc.— Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company Chesapeake Bay Chapter Honeywell Arlington County Police Charitable Fund Inc. Motorola Solutions Foundation Assurant Foundation State Farm Fire & Casualty Company AT&T Employee Giving Campaign Axis Accident and Health Insurance Platinum BYB Brands INC Safety Components First Responders California Casualty 911 Foundation Centura Health Gold Charles Schwab Chesapeake Bay Chapter AFSA 100 Club of Arizona Distant Cellars Dover International Speedway FirefighterCloseCalls.com Glatfelter Insurance Group Global Health and Safety Kidde Hurst Jaws of Life Motorola Solutions Inc. Just Marketing, Inc. Pierce Manufacturing, Inc. Lion TenCate Protective Fabrics Maryland State Firemen’s Association TYCO Masimo Foundation for Ethics United Technologies National Association of State Fire Marshals Silver National Fire Protection Association 3M QALO Charmin Steak-Umm Company FIREHOUSE The College Board FireRescue1.com Unication USA Guns for Hoses Paintball Wells Fargo Bank LiftMaster William Goldfeder, Pass It On Provident Agency, Inc. Stanley Black & Decker Streamlight, Inc. VFIS Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Pewter Supporters 4th Annual Benefit in Memory of Brandon Little 100 Club of Anne Arundel County Adventist GlenOaks Hospital 1st Responders Benefit and Bash Air Methods Corporation Intl. Abingdon Fire Department Auto Club Speedway, Fontana, CA AccuMed Billing BFPE Intl. Active Network, LLC BGE Adelphi University David Buell ADT LLC Center for Public Safety Excellence Akron Brass Co. Fairfax 2015 / World Police & Fire Games Bill Albers Guns for Hoses Paintball Alexian Brothers Medical Center Hogs & Heroes Foundation Alliance Productions IAFF Local #293, Erie, PA Allstate Giving Campaign International Development Corporation (IDC) Scott Anderson Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association Angel’s Hands Foundation Mission BBQ, California, Maryland Arlington Fire Department Ocean City F.O.O.L.S. Baltimore Orioles PBI Performance Products Bank of America Pennwell Barnard Fire Department Inc Rocky Mount Fire Department #1 Mary Beltz Runner’s Depot Benevity Community Impact Fund San Diego Fireman’s Relief Association BJC Health Care Sandy Springs Bank Bloomingdale Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary STATter 911 Michelle Boyt Steel Family Charitable Foundation Bravelets Thomas Hays In Memory of Thomas Joseph Hays Bravo Farms USA Sprinkler Fitters Bridgeton Professional Firefighters Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Stuart Buchholtz Mike Dickinson Samuel Cachola Doctors of Erie County Cal-Weld Inc. Donatic Richard Calhoun Annette Drake Cambrian Consultants America John Driscoll Cape May Volunteer Fire Department Dupage County Fire Chiefs Cardinal Brook Trust E-ONE CBIZ Benefits and Insurance Services Inc. Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation Concord Township Fire Department Catherine Echternach Central New York Community Foundation, Inc. Elizabeth Edwards Central Ohio Fallen Firefighters Foundation Elmira College Fire & EMS Club Chattanooga Firefighters Association Local 820 Entercom Broadcasting Chelsea Fire Hot Sauce, LLC Evans Cockerline Foundation, Inc. Chili Fire Department, Inc Farber & Company Attorneys Chowder House Greg Featherston Harold Chrimes Joseph Felkel David Christensen Ferno-Wash Inc. Churchville Fire Equipment Corp. Jason Ferryman Clark C.A.R.E.S. Foundation Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Mark Cleveland Financial Bank Mary Cockerline Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) Community Health Charities of North Carolina Fire EMS Generator Community Foundation of Anne Arudel County Firefighters First Credit Union Ryan Conklin Fireman’s Brew, Inc. Cookie Republic, Inc Firemen’s Association State of Pennsylvania Thomas Coulombe First Giving Craftworks Foundation First NBC Bank Creative Culture Insignia Flanigan Bilt Putters Paul Curtis Floyd Truck Maintenance Deauville Inn, Inc Flying Fish Studio DELMARVA Emerald Society Foothills Credit Union DeVry University Gail Fowler DeWitt Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 2733 Fox River Firefighters Association Dickinson Hardwood Flooring, Inc. Nikki Fudenna Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Linda Gaines Jericho Volunteer Fire Department Garden Spot Fire Rescue William Joerger Gases 101 Cheryl Johnson Germantown Volunteer Fire Department Carol Jones Get Some L.L.C. Louis Jones Gettysburg Eagles No. 1562 Jeffrey Karlovitch Give With Liberty Randy Karrer Glenside Fire Protection District Kevin Francis 1800 Ontario Shore Service Glick Fire Equipment Co. Knife River Golds Gym Knox Company Carrie Gordon Vivek Koppikar Kathleen Gordon Jessica La Frentz Greater Kansas City Community Foundation Lafayette Fire Fighters Association Greater St. Louis Area Fire Chiefs Association Stephen Lane Greece Ridge Exempt Fireman’s Association Tom Lanting Green Valley Firefighters Association Lawrence Park Fire Dept Training Facility David Griffin Les Schwab Tire Center Gunnison Watershed School District Lewis Tree Service, Inc. Harris Corporation Livermore Pleasanton Firefighters Foundation Harrison Accounting Group, Inc. Corporation Hayward Firefighters Charitable Fund Lloyd and Bouvier Inc. Geoffrey Herald Robert Macauley Horton Mag Instrument, Inc. A. H. Howard Manteca Firefighters Local No. 1874 I. A. F. F. Gregg Huennekens Mark G. MacDonald Massachusetts Code Compliance Hurst Jaws of Life Inc. Maryland Heights Fire Fighters Community Outreach Iasis Healthcare Corporation Mazzone Management Group, LTD Illinois Public Risk Fund Troy McBride International Association of Wildland Fire McWane Plumbing Group International Development LLC MES - Municipal Emergency Services Ivy Acres Inc. Metro Fire Investigators Jay Griffith Inc. Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association of IL Jeep Chrysler Dodge of Ontario Midwest Stunts Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

Monroe Ambulance Roanoke County Professional Firefighters & Mark Moon Paramedics Murch Management, Inc. Roanoke Fire Fighters Association Local 1132 Musimatic Roanoke Valley Firefighters Foundation Inc. National Football League Players Association Rockland Trust New Concepts Construction David Ronco New Tech Solutions, Inc. Sarah Sanders Newton Township Volunteer Fire Department Mark Saurer North Greece Firefighters Local 3287 Sawyer, Falduto Asset Management, LLC North Tucson Fire Fighters Local 3832 Sel-Wil, Inc. Northern Arizona University Service King Paint and Body Northwest Firefighters Local 3572 SERVPRO Joseph O’Malley SF Fire Credit Union Oakland Alameda County Emeryville Shirts Illustrated, Inc. Oklahoma State University Tara Sivec Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper Gilbert & Dinolfo, LTD. Smithfield Volunteer Fire Company 1 P J’S Lumber Inc. Socratic Technologies Hal Parker SOS Global Express Sarah Parker Belmira Sousa Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling Spriggs Motor Coach Pearson Education St. John’s Fire District Chris Petz John Steel Physiofocus Orthopedic and Sports Therapy LLC Sterling Bank Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Theta Pi Chapter Sterling Rope Company Premier Health Caren Stewart Pierce College Eric Stoerger Vickie Pritchett Mary Ann Sullivan Privett Insurance Group, Inc. Sunoco Pipeline LP Pro Firefighters of Cit Co Inc. Superior Ambulance Service, Inc. Professional Fire Fighters of Eastern Missouri Supersonic Car Wash Local 2665 Support for Firefighters Professional Restoration Vanessa Swatek Barry Richardson T & J Lewis, Inc. David Richman Texas Fire Marshals Association Sponsors of the Weekend and Other Foundation Programs

The Fire Foundation Inc. W.S. Darley & Co. The Harry F. Barnes and Carol H. Barnes Family Weidner & Associaters Foundation WellAmerica, Inc. The New IEM, LLC Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad The Whitson Company, Inc. Curtis Wilchek Token Creek Productions Ed Wilkerson True Value Hardware Witmer Public Safety Group, Inc. United Fire Equipment Co Michael Wojcik Utah Disaster Kleenup Donald and Wanda Wood Vetrano Financial Services WSM Architects, Inc. Thomas Vetrano Richard Yarnall Visallla Rawhide ZAGG Inc. Vitalboards, LLC Golf Tournament Sponsors

Play It Forward Golf Tournament Sponsored by the The Hartford Lawrence County Firefighter Association & Rescue Honeywell Life Safety Squad to benefit the NFFF, Courtland, AL Southbury Volunteer Firemen’s Association Stanley Black & Decker 6th Annual Northern Arizona NFFF Golf Tournament, Prescott Valley, AZ 6th Annual NFFF Memorial Golf Tournament of South Florida in Memory of Pompano Beach Fire Tucson, AZ Fallen Firefighters Safety Seminar, Fighter Bill Elliott, Naples, FL Benefit Dinner and Golf Tournament, Tucson, AZ Database Financial Air Methods – LifeNet Professional Fire Fighters of Collier County Local 2396 Arizona Lifeline Life Scan Wellness Centers David & Sharon Felix on behalf of The 100 Club of Boca Raton Fire Fighter & Paramedic Benevolent Arizona Walkers Marine Greater Tucson Fire Foundation LifeNet - Air Methods 5th Annual Hawai’i NFFF Golf Tournament, Kauai, HI Municipal Emergency Services (MES) Hawaii Fire Chiefs Association North Tucson Fire Fighters, Local 3832 Northern Illinois National Fallen Firefighters Rescue Air Memorial Golf Tournament, Byron, IL Spartan ERV W. W. Williams – Fire Support Services 6th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Vetrano Financial Services Golf Outing, Geneva, IL Central California Fallen Firefighters Memorial 7th Chicagoland Fallen Firefighters Memorial Golf Annual Golf Tournament, Dinuba, CA Tournament, Glendale Heights, IL The Alamanc Group Adventist GlenOaks Hospital Sequoia Beverage Team Addison – Addison Fire Protection District/ SPPI Limited Addison Local 4727/Addison Firefighters Association Tulare County Federal Credit Union Alexian Brothers Medical Group Hospital Tulare County Board of Supervisors W.S. Darley Family Foundation U Got Stink DuPage County Fire Chiefs Association Glenside Professional Firefighters Local 3277 Fremont Firefighters Charity Golf Tournament Glenside Fire Protection District 2014/National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Hallberg Commercial Insurance Benefit, Sunol, CA Hanover Park Professional Firefighters Local 3452 Car West Auto Body Illinois Public Risk Fund Dickinson Hardwood Flooring Jack Doyle Fire EMS Generator MABAS Division 12 Fremont Elks Lodge NO. 2121 Metro Paramedic Services of Illinois Fremont Marriott Silicon Valley Ottosen, Britz, Kelly, Cooper, Gilbert & DiNolfo, Ltd. The New IEM, LLC Restore Construction, Inc. New Tech Solutions, Inc. Sawyer Falduto Asset Management, LLC Olazaba Enterprises Inc. Universal Gaming Group Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling Restoration Management Company Fort Wayne/Allen County Memorial Tournament, Saddle Rack, Inc. Ft.Wayne, IN San Francisco Fire Credit Union BF Goodrich - Fort Wayne Plant TJ Lewis, Inc. Charles Lehman Nationwide Insurance 2nd Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial New Haven/Adams Township Fire and EMS Golf Tournament of Connecticut, Bloomfield, CT Parkview Health The Harry F. Barnes and Carol H. Barnes Family Paul Davis Foundation Professional Emergency Physicians CRS-Complete Restoration Solutions Protechs - Fort Wayne Golf Tournament Sponsors

Robinsons Wrecker Service Monroe Extinguisher Company Chris Wolff - Ruoff Home Mortgage New York State Association of Fire Chiefs Southwest Allen County Fire District Noonan Bar & Grill North Greece Professional Firefighters Local #3827 Hebron Professional Firefighters Local 3784, Spencerport Volunteer Firemen’s Association First Annual September 11th Memorial Golf Scramble, Z’s Automotive Hebron, KY 1st Annual FASNY Fallen Firefighters Golf 2nd Annual Protectowire Open, Marshfield, MA Tournament, Schenectady NY Contravisory Desmond Hotel and Conference Center Eastern Insurance DKC Rockland Trust 8th Annual Raleigh Area NFFF Golf Tournament, Missouri Fire Service Funeral Assistance Team Golf Raleigh, NC Tournament, St. Peters, MO Missouri Fire Service Funeral Assistance Team 7th Annual Erie, Pennsylvania Fallen Firefighters Memorial Golf Tournament, Erie, PA Greater Cincinnati Regional NFFF Golf Tournament, Doctors of Erie County Cincinnati, OH IAFF Local 293 Anderson Township IAFF Local 3111 Presque Isle Downs and Casino Cincigolf.com Colerain Firefighters IAFF Local 3915 11th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial 1-800-BOARDUP/Teasdale Fenton Golf Tournament, Fairfield, PA Gold Star Chili Glick Fire Equipment Co., Inc. Health Care Training Solutions Provident Agency, Inc. Heildelberg Distributing Glatfelter Insurance Group, Inc. Hillshire Brands 7th Annual SEPA Regional Fallen Firefighters HTT Insurance Agency Memorial Golf Outing, Philadelphia, PA LaRosa’s Pizzeria McMenamin Family ShopRite Rising Star Casino and Resort PARX Casino 8th Annual Central Ohio Fallen Firefighters 6th Annual NFFF Memorial Golf Tournament, Memorial Golf Tournament, Delaware, OH Charleston, SC Central Ohio Fallen Firefighters Foundation St. Johns Fire District 8th Annual Rochester, NY NFFF Golf Tournament, 5th Annual North Texas Fallen Firefighter Memorial Rochester, NY Golf Tournament, Wylie, TX ADT LLC Barnard Fire Department The Seventh Wasatch Front and Eleventh Annual Brighton Fire Department NFFF Memorial Golf Tournament, Brighton Professional Firefighters Local #2232 Saratoga Springs, UT Chili Fire Department Get Some L.L.C. Churchville Fire Equipment Corp. Gold’s Gym Eric Stoerger - National Fire Adjustment Company Larry Miller Group Gail Fowler New Concepts Construction Gates Professional Firefighters Local #3792 Shirts Illustrated, Inc. Genesee Brewing Company Supersonic Car Wash Greece Lake Shore Fire Department University of Utah Greece Ridge Exempt Fireman’s Association Utah Disaster Kleen-Up Henrietta Professional Firefighters Local #3738 ZAGG Inc. Horseheads Fire Department Southeast Wisconsin National Fallen Firefighters Kevin Francis 1800 Ontario Shore Golf Tournament, Pewaukee, WI Monroe Ambulance Stair Climb Sponsors

Alabama Remembers 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Knoxville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Montgomery, AL Knoxville, TN

Binghamton Fire 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Lafayette 9/11 Stair Climb, Lafayette, LA Binghamton, NY Lancaster 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Lancaster, PA Black Hawk 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb , Black Hawk, CO Lynchburg 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Lynchburg, VA Charlotte Firefighters 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Charlotte, NC Nashville 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Nashville, TN Wells Fargo North Dakota 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Clayton 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Clayton, MO Bismark, ND

Chattanooga 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Ocean City 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Chattanooga, TN Ocean City, MD

Colorado 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Red Rocks, CO Panama City Beach 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, California Casualty Panama City, FL

Columbus 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Pierce 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Columbus, OH Lambeau Field, WI

Coral Springs 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Portland 9/11Memorial Stair Climb, Portland, ME Coral Springs, FL Prescott 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Denver 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Denver, CO Prescott Valley, AZ

FDIC 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Indianapolis, IN Prince George’s County 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb & Walk, National Harbor, MD Firehouse Expo 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Baltimore, MD Richmond 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Richmond, VA Fire-Rescue International 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Dallas, TX Springfield Area 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Springfield, MO Grand Rapids 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Grand Rapids, MI Volunteer Combination Officers Section (VCOS) 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Juneau 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Juneau, AK Yellow Springs 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Kalamazoo 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, Antioch College, OH Kalamazoo, MI

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation greatly appreciates the support received from our volunteers who coordinate golf tournaments and stair climbs. Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2015 Memorial Weekend

Charles Abrecht Camden County Emerald Society, New Jersey Adams County Volunteer Emergency Services Canteen 1, Independent Hose Company, Frederick, Association Maryland Alexandria Fire Department, Virginia Canteen 22, Springfield Volunteer Fire Department, Larson Allen Virginia Anne Arundel Alarmers Association, Maryland Nick Caputo Anne Arundel County Fire Department, Maryland Dave Carr Lorell Angelety Dave Carroll Music Tomy Baker Dhiren Chauhan Allen Baldwin Chicago Fire Department, Illinois Baltimore County Fire Department, Maryland Chronicle Press Baltimore-Washington International Airport Authority City of Clearwater Fire and Rescue, Florida Baltimore-Washington International Fire & Rescue City of Frederick, Maryland Department City of Los Angeles Fire Department, California Bill Barnard City of Raleigh Fire Department, North Carolina Marc Bashoor Tim Clark Amy Beechler Clinton Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland Ian Bennett R. Steven Cochran Valerie Benson Congressional Fire Services Institute Bergen County (NJ) Fire Academy-IAFF Local 3500 Connecticut Statewide Honor Guard Mark Bilger Tom Coulombe Kyle Blackman Katie Cowan Bonneauville Fire Company, Pennsylvania Michael E. Cox, Jr. Box 234 Association of Baltimore County, Maryland Steve & Nancy Cox Mark Brady Melissa Crabbs, Mount Saint Mary’s University Branchville Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland Fred Cross Brandon Fire Department, Vermont Larry Curl Brian Brendel Daughters of Charity, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Greg Bridges Maryland Ivan Browning Allen Davis Greg Bunch Frank Davis Burlington County (NJ) Firefighters Mike Davis Bill Butt Amy deBoinville, Full Circle Design BWI Airport Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local Delaware Volunteer Fireman’s Association 1742, Maryland John Denver Darby Byrd Jeff Dickey California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Charlie Dickinson Local 2881 Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2015 Memorial Weekend

Robert DiPoli Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue, District of Columbia Fire & Emergency Medical Maryland Services Congressman Steny H. Hoyer and Staff, Maryland District of Columbia Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Ray Hughes Local 36 International Association of Fire Chiefs District of Columbia Retired Fire Fighters Association International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1609, Mike Donlon Frederick, Maryland Jim Dugan International Code Council Eden Volunteer Fire Company, Lancaster County, Robert Jacobs Pennsylvania Chip Jewell John Eline Junior Fire Company No. 2, Inc., Maryland Jeff Elliott Rick Kane Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, Virginia Ron Kanterman Federation of Fire Chaplains Kensington Maryland Volunteer Fire Department Firefighter Wife Canteen 5 Rhett Fleitz Kidde Safety Al Fluman Robert Kilpeck Frederick County Government, Maryland Gary Kirchbaum Frederick County Department of Fire and Rescue, Brian Koenig Maryland Paul Krietz Frederick County Firefighters Association, IAFF Local Chad Lallier 3666, Maryland Lancaster County Public Safety Training Center, Frederick County Volunteer Fire & Rescue Association, Pennsylvania Maryland Sylvia Lantz Friendship Fire Association of Washington DC Scott Legore D. Wayne Garver Amber Leizear Brian Geraci Andy Levy Gettysburg Fire Department, Pennsylvania Lion Apparel Charles Giblin Terry Lloyd Dan Gosnell Gregory Long Greenridge & Associates, Maryland Brian Lowman Guest Services, Inc., Maryland Julia Lynch Tom Hayden Vito Maggiolo Henrico County Division of Fire, Virginia Manheim Township Fire Rescue, Pennsylvania Billy & Joy Hinton Marlboro Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland Hooksett Fire/Rescue Department, New Hampshire Marriott International Hillary Howard Maryland Aviation Administration Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2015 Memorial Weekend

Maryland Emergency Management Agency Tom Olshanski, USFA Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute Jackie Olson Maryland Fire Chiefs Association Omni Corporation Maryland Professional Fire Fighters Association Dennis Onieal Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office Tom Owens Maryland State Firemen’s Association A. J. Papa Maryland State Police Tyler Patton Todd May James Payne Robert McCurdy PBI Corporation John McGrath Tim Pelton Richard McKee Mark Pena Jim McLoughlin Penn Township Fire Department Spruce McRee Rick Petry Metro Chiefs – IAFC/NFPA Philadelphia 2nd Alarmers, Pennsylvania Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority Pete Piringer Midway VFC Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, Joe Minogue Maryland MMRI RF Equipment Rental, Georgia Prince George’s Volunteer Canteen, Maryland Mohegan Tribal Fire Department, Connecticut Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue, Virginia Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Maryland Jenna Pritchett Morningside Volunteer Fire Department, Maryland John & Susan Proels Motorola Solutions Public Safety Training Center, Pennsylvania Mount St. Mary’s University, Maryland Lew Raeder Molly Natchipolsky Mike Ramirez National Fire Academy Alumni Association Red Helmets Ride Committee National Honor Guard Commanders Association Betty Riffle National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Michael Robertson Maryland Rockingham County Department of Fire and Rescue, National Volunteer Fire Council Virginia Barbara Sue Nelson Johnie Roth Mike Nelson Gordon Routley Newport News Fire Department, Virginia S & W Construction, Maryland Susan Nicol Tricia Sanborn Northern Virginia Firefighters’ Emerald Society Pipe Sarah Sadler Band Safeware, Inc. Patti Odbert San Bernardino National Forest, USFS, California Individuals and Organizations Generously Donating Time and Services to the 2015 Memorial Weekend

Jaime Shaffer-Mickley Town of Emmitsburg, Maryland Hurshel Shank Troy Fire Department, Michigan Tim Shelton Jay Tucker Bob Shilling USDA Forest Service Robert Small Union Fire Co. No. 1 of Carlisle, Pennsylvania Smithfield Fire Department, Rhode Island United Communities Volunteer Fire Department Kelly Snyder United States Capitol Police Spotsylvania County, Department of Fire, Rescue and United States Fire Administration Emergency Management Vermont Fire Prevention Division Springfield VA Volunteer Fire Department Canteen 22 Victor Fire Department and the Red Knights Eric Stackhouse Motorcycle Club Robert Stanmire Vigilant Hose Company, Maryland David Stanton VISTA Worldlink STARTECH International Security Volunteer and Combination Officers Section IAFC Bryan Staples Volunteer Fireman’s Insurance Services Dave Statter Doug Wallick Paul Sterling Jr. Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Tom Stommel Steve Watkins, Omni Corporation Summit Fire Department, New Jersey Michael Wells Doug Swartz Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, Maryland Tampa Fire/Rescue, Florida Smiley White Tim Taylor The Whitestone Group Vickie Taylor G. Crawford Wiestling Jeff Thompson Wilmington Fire Department, Delaware Terry Thompson Town of Wilton (CT) Board of Selectmen & Board of Dave Thornburg Fire Commissioners Jim Tidwell Winchester Fire and Rescue Department, Virginia Heather Tinney Willie Wines, Jr. Amy and John Tippett Dennis Wolfe Barry Titler Bryant Woodall Barry Thoma Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel Matt Tobia Mark Youngs

…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 Sharon Baroncelli Elaine Huttenloch Chief Ronald Siarnicki Donna Clark Charles Jaster Victor Stagnaro Beverly Donlon Barbara King Jeanne Tobia Lissette Garcia James Markel Judith Whitlow Cathy Hedrick Jenni McClelland Ashley Whitmore Rose Hoepfl Eric Nagle Ginny Wilhite Linda Hurley Rebecca Nusbaum Jenny Woodall Susan Proels Contractors Amy Acton Eric Hagman John Proels Candi Alexander Jonathan Hart Respect Consulting Limited Michael Anderson William Hinton Kevin Roche Steve Austin IPAK Productions Sonya Roth Ian Bennett Daniel Jarboe Gordon Routley Richard Best Ron Kanterman Royers Computer Networks Nick Caputo The Kelleher Foundation Inc. Tricia Sanborn Chronicle Press Dr. JoEllen Kelly Robert Shilling Comfort Zone Camps Captain Frank Leto, FDNY Sean T. Spain Cool Water Media Kim Lightley, USFS Squaw Island Company Inc. Henry Costo Teresa Lloyd Dave Statter Brian Crandall Mason Consulting Services, Inc. Stone Productions LLC James L. Cubbage Molly Natchipolsky Stonehouse Media Inc. Amy de Boinville John Oates Vickie Taylor FD Solutions Michael Pfaltzgraff Amy Tippett Rhett Fleitz Shannon Pieper Kimberly Van Orden PhD Florida State University Edward Plaugher Patricia J. Watson Dr. Richard Gist Jenna Pritchett Yellow Specs Design Greg Guise Vickie Pritchett

Special thanks to all of the fire service members who serve as State Advocates for the Everyone Goes Home® program, as members of the Local Assistance State Teams, and as volunteers at Hal Bruno Camps. “ he true legacy of the individuals T whom we honor for making the ultimate 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 matt Ambelas • David Wilbur Anderson • Thomas Araguz III • Samir P. “Sam” Ashmar • matt Ambelas • David Wilbur Anderson • Thomas Araguz III • Samir P. “Sam” Ashmar •

Gregory D. Barnas • Jeffery Edward Bayless • Kevin L. Bell • James E. Bethea • Joseph Gregory D. Barnas • Jeffery Edward Bayless • Kevin L. Bell • James E. Bethea • Joseph

Edward Bove III • Kevin J. Bristol • Bruce Britt • John M. Burns • Jerry Campbell • Paul S. Edward Bove III • Kevin J. Bristol • Bruce Britt • John M. Burns • Jerry Campbell • Paul S.

Cash • Douglas J. Casson • Dennis A. Channell • Richard L. Choate • Joyce M. Craig • Cash • Douglas J. Casson • Dennis A. Channell • Richard L. Choate • Joyce M. Craig •

James A. Dickman • Ricky W. Doub • Ted F. Drake • Fred Edwards • Hugh B. Ferguson James A. Dickman • Ricky W. Doub • Ted F. Drake • Fred Edwards • Hugh B. Ferguson

III • David P. Fiori • Kellen A. Fleming • Robert William “Bob” Fogle III • Jonathan E. III • David P. Fiori • Kellen A. Fleming • Robert William “Bob” Fogle III • Jonathan E.

French • Donovan Artie Garcia Jr. • Michael Dale “Mikey” Garrett • Charles Edward French • Donovan Artie Garcia Jr. • Michael Dale “Mikey” Garrett • Charles Edward

Goff • Matthew Goodnature • Daniel David Groover • John Derek Gupton • Ramon Goff • Matthew Goodnature • Daniel David Groover • John Derek Gupton • Ramon

Edward “Ray” Hain • Homer W. Harrell Jr. • Jacob T. Harrell • Edward “Ray” Hain • Homer W. Harrell Jr. • Jacob T. Harrell • llen Fi llen Fi Fa re Dwight Reid Hilton • Ross Fa re E. Huffer • Geoffrey Hunt • Dwight Reid Hilton • Ross l f E. Huffer • Geoffrey Hunt l f a ig a ig n h n h • Christopher J. Hunter • JB Hutton Jr. • Wayne Christopher J. Hunter • JB Hutton Jr. • Wayne o t o t i i e e t t r r O’neal Jeffers • Malcolm a W. Jenkins • Eddie J. O’neal Jeffers • Malcolm a W. Jenkins • Eddie J. s s

N N

★ ★

★

Johnson Jr. • Michael- Ryan Robert Crosby Johnson Jr. • Michael- ★ Ryan Robert Crosby M M

Kennedy • Steven J. e d Knaus • James Joseph Kennedy • Steven J. Knaus e d • James Joseph Knesek m n m n o e o e k k Knesek Sr. • Michael C. r e Kucsma Jr. • Thomas Sr. • Michael C. Kucsma r e Jr. • Thomas Gerald Lee • ia e ia e l W l W Gerald Lee • Melvin R. Loder  • Gus Losleben • Stephen Melvin R. Loder • Gus Losleben  • Stephen A. Machcinski •

A. Machcinski • Richard L. Marchman • Donald “Pete” Martin Richard L. Marchman • Donald “Pete” Martin • S. Brad McCoy

• S. Brad McCoy • John C. “Mac” McDonald • Robert C. Meyer • James Curtis Middlebrook • John C. “Mac” McDonald • Robert C. Meyer • James Curtis Middlebrook • David W.

• David W. Millett • Bobby Mollere • Jeffrey Bruce Newland • Billy G. Norris Sr. • Frank L. Millett • Bobby Mollere • Jeffrey Bruce Newland • Billy G. Norris Sr. • Frank L. Obremski

Obremski • Kevin J. Ollier • Cosmo Paris • Darrell D. Parker • Jamie Angelo Peite • Randall • Kevin J. Ollier • Cosmo Paris • Darrell D. Parker • Jamie Angelo Peite • Randall R.

R. Pogue • James Thomas “Tom” Rhamey • Christi M. Rodgers • Joseph Sanford Jr. • Pogue • James Thomas “Tom” Rhamey • Christi M. Rodgers • Joseph Sanford Jr. •

Fidel G. Serrano Jr. • Bruce A. Stayner • Tom D. Stevens Sr. • Christ K. Swan • W. Scott Fidel G. Serrano Jr. • Bruce A. Stayner • Tom D. Stevens Sr. • Christ K. Swan • W. Scott

Tanksley • Robert B. Thomas • Arthur E. Treon • George D. Underwood • Edward J. Tanksley • Robert B. Thomas • Arthur E. Treon • George D. Underwood • Edward J.

Walsh Jr • Robert “Bud” Webster • Richard D. Weisse Sr. • E. Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel • Allen R. Walsh Jr • Robert “Bud” Webster • Richard D. Weisse Sr. • E. Jeffrey “Lance” Wentzel • Allen R.

Westby • William “Will” Wiita • James C. Wilber • Ricky L. Winkles Sr. • James J. Woods Westby • William “Will” Wiita • James C. Wilber • Ricky L. Winkles Sr. • James J. Woods Remembering ver in Our Hea Fore rts ® National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend 2015 ®

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Post Office Drawer 498 National Fallen Firefighters Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727 Memorial Weekend 301.447.1365 • 301.447.1645 fax www.firehero.org • [email protected] October 3-4, 2015