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May 01, 2006
May Losses & Memorial Update
The memorial being built in Hollywood for fallen firefighters is nearing completion. It is a remarkable and memorable place to visit, even now. The plaza, once complete, will feature groundwork that outlines the city of Los Angeles. Pavers, dedicated to individuals by those who purchase them, will line the plaza. A central memorial stage, with bronze statues and a memorial wall, highlight the plaza. An eternal flame will burn above the memorial wall.
There are a few remaining pavers available to those individuals who would care to support the completion of the memorial plaza. In addition, individual and corporate support for the memorial is available, and anyone interested should contact Battalion Chief Greg Gibson at the Historical Society and museum offices.
The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of May:
Fireman Tony Arisco
Engine Company 54
Died May 5, 1941
Firefighter Lynn R. Hazlett
Squad Company 39
Died May 12, 1979
In addition to those members listed above, a number of firefighters died in May months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Toney Arguello, Joseph Shill, John R. Arnell, Walter Westphal, Peter Higgins, Nick W. Holopoff, Wesley W. Currie, Rupert A. Black, Richard V. Dikeman, Gordon L. Anderson, Jack W. Hancock, Richard S. Carnes, Charles S. Jennings, Peter D. Rose, Joseph J. Napolitano, Michael A. Pizinger, Jesse D. Kellog.
While on military leave, fireman Austin F. Casselberry was killed in action on May 13, 1944, while serving as the Captain on a B-17 bomber, flying over Coblenz, Germany.
To learn more about these individuals, their lives and the last alarm they responded to, you may purchase a copy of The Los Angeles Fire Department Memorial Book. It is available at the bookstore at the museum and a portion of the proceeds will be used to complete construction of the LAFD Memorial.
Posted by dbarrett at May 1, 2006 05:09 PM