LAFD Museum & Memorial: Fallen Firefighter Memorial Archives

September 15, 2007

2007 Gala Well Received by the Community

People from all over Los Angeles joined together this past Friday to celebrate the ongoing development of the Los Angeles Fire Department Fallen Firefighter Memorial. The Greater Alarm Gala was hosted by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the LAFD Historical Society, and a select committee of LAFD supporters.

The evening began with a silent auction display, including signed firefighter helmets, firefighting memorabilia, art, music, travel certificates and much more. Several items were of specific interest, including a firefighting helmet signed by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who attended the event and posed for photos. Aldrin, who along with Neil Armstrong made history by being the first two humans to walk on the moon on July 20, 1969, was just the first surprise for an event-filled evening.

Active firefighters prepared a BBQ-style array of food. Grilled Salmon, Firehouse Flank Steak, Veggie-Pasta and other dishes were well received by the more than 450 people in attendance. A desert bar tempted people to return for more, not to mention wonderful coffee and after-dinner drinks.

The event hosts, Jeff Loeb, Thaddeus Hunter-Smith, and Brian Sayers were terrific. Mayor Villaraigosa spoke about the department and his pride for its members, the Fire Chief was very warm with his comments regarding the importance of a memorial and museum. Councilperson Tom LaBonge shared some of his remarkable historical knowledge of Hollywood, and everyone involved presented themselves perfectly.

Karla Ross and Nick Palance provided some wonderful musical entertainment. R|com Creative added some moving video and still images of the LAFD in action.

Presentations were made to LAFD HS contributors Jeffrey Neu, William Rolland, and Bernard Subkoski. Special plaques were given to family members representing fallen firefighters Michael Carter and James Hassan. And special presentations were made honoring Jeffrey Neu of Sims Metal, David Judaken, owner of Mood and Garden of Eden, plus Chris Bonbright, Frank Buckley, John Tronson, and Steven Tronson of Ramsey-Shilling.

The evening concluded with a fun live auction hosted by Steve Vallentine of Crossing Jordan fame. Vallentine was terrific, adding humor and following the audience to get the most out of the charity-based auction.

Posted by dbarrett at 06:54 PM | Comments ( 0 )

October 06, 2006

We will never forget...

As family members and friends looked on, Los Angeles Fire Captain James Finn began reading. His words were clear - pointed - emotional. People bowed their heads. Others watched the Captain at the podium; behind him five bronze statues shining brightly under a magnificent blue sky.

"Sam Haskins, " Finn read aloud. "Clinton Johnson. Charles Fuselehr. Adolph Hermanson." Finn was reading aloud the names of Los Angeles firefighters who lost their lives while serving the city and its citizens. For ten minutes, with a bagpipe playing in the background, Finn reminded the audience of the sacrifice made by firefighters - and the risk every firefighter takes, regardless of city, state or country - every time they pull on their turnouts and climb aboard a rig for an emergency response.

The memorial event also included a presentation by Los Angeles Fire Chief William Bamattre, who noted the dedication that went into the creation of the memorial and the museum that sits beside the memorial plaza. Retired Assistant Chief Frank Borden also spoke of the new memorial, the plaza, and the effort put into the city's first dedicated site for remembering its fallen members. Councilman Tom LaBonge and others, both from the community and the department shared their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives under the glare of a bright Hollywood sun.

In the audience, the wives, brothers, sisters, parents and children of fallen Los Angeles firefighters sat and shared in the experience. The tears were, for the most part, long gone. But the memories remain and for these special people, the opportunity to share not only in the memory of their fallen family member, but in the memories of those around them, made the event one of celebration, rather than sadness. "We want to celebrate the lives of all firefighters," retired Chief Borden commented. "But these fallen members of our department are special and now, we have a place for them to be. It's a home of sorts, for them and for the community."

The memorial plaza is nearing formal completion and will be open during daylight hours to anyone interested in viewing the memorial wall, or sitting under the shady tree in the memorial plaza. For Los Angeles residents who have yet to see the memorial, Saturday October 7th will see the Firefighter Festival of Hollywood take place, just outside the memorial plaza. So, bring your family and visit this special place. The festival will be open from 10AM through 8PM. Admission is Free.

Posted by dbarrett at 12:57 AM | Comments ( 1 )

October 04, 2006

Memorial Service Thursday...

On Thursday, October 5th, the Los Angeles Fire Department will gather to remember those firefighters who lost their lives protecting the citizens of Los Angeles. The event takes place at 10:00AM, just outside the LAFD Museum & Memorial in Hollywood.

"These events are moving and uplifting, both," said LAFD Museum supporter David Barrett. "While any memorial service is a somber activity, this is really a bit different. This is a remembrance and celebration of those firefighters who gave their lives so that others might live." Presentations by Fire Chief William Bamattre, local council persons, directors of UFLAC, and the Los Angeles Fire Department Historical Society are a tradition. Each year, family members of fallen firefighters journey to Hollywood for the occasion and are joined by a wide range of active duty LAFD members.

The public may attend and there is ample parking across the street from the memorial plaza. For additional information, you may contact the museum at (323) 464 - 2727.

Posted by dbarrett at 09:24 PM | Comments ( 0 )

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.

Posted by dbarrett at 05:09 PM | Comments ( 0 )

April 01, 2006

April Losses

The history of the Los Angeles Fire Department is filled with stories of remarkable rescues, daring firefighters braving flames and smoke, and occasionally, a dramatic event gone wrong. It's easy to forget those incidents where there was no remarkable rescue, or dramatic loom up that summoned a third of the department before being put down. Yet, it's the average fire or related incident where losses are most likely to occur.

Fire rages at 1320 S. Main Street

On April 7, 1924, a structure fire at 1320 South Main Street continued to expand after firefighters arrived on scene, resulting in a second alarm being requested. As part of that second alarm, Truck 5 arrived to help ventilate the smoky blaze. Tillerman Ercil G. Morse laddered the building and stepped onto the roof to assist with venting operations. He moved to cross the roof and in the smoky conditions, apparently did not see a glass skylight, situated in the middle of the structure. He plunged three stories and suffered massive head injuries. He was removed to the hospital, where he died the following day.

Firefighter Morse's death had a dramatic impact on the community. His funeral was widely attended and the procession passed in front of Fire Station 16, where, as the car carrying the young firefighter to his final resting place passed, a long ring sounded, while the crew of 16s stood at attention.

Department Chief Ralph J. Scott wrote to the Morse family and his letter follows:

Mrs. M. E. Morse, 541 Fairmont Avenue, Glendale, Calif.

Dear Madam:

Personally and on behalf of the members of the Los Angeles Fire Department, for whom I have the honor to be spokesman, permit me to express to you and members of your family at this time, our deep concern and heartfelt sympathy in your recent bereavement.

There are times when words fail to convey the depths of brotherly feeling, when in this dangerous service of ours some man is called upon to pay the extreme penalty which the work exacts. There is not a man in the department whose heart does not go out in sympathy to those who are left behind, for no one of us knows that the next alarm of fire may not be the last call for him.

The departed boy was giving splendid service and was well loved by all his associates. Not a blot appears upon his record in this trying service. Many men have boasted of less than this.

Respectfully,

R.J. Scott,

Chief Engineer.

------------------------------

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of April:

Fireman Ercil Morse
Truck Company 5
Died April 7, 1924

Fireman Silvestre Madrid
Truck Company 2
Died April 21, 1932

Captain Fred W. Toenjes
Engine Company 43
Died April 8, 1935

Auto Fireman Paul M. Shapro
Engine Company 22
Died April 5, 1936

Fireman Ben H. Morris
Rescue Company 66
Died April 6, 1940

Firefighter II Brian E. Philips
Truck Company 102
Died April 25, 1979

In addition to those members listed above, a number of firefighters died in April months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Thomas S. home, Eldo W. Gerloff, Bernard O. Burge, William Wagner, Donald G. Wilson, Weikko A. Rahkola, Arthur M. Compton, John M. Lobestein, George W. Winchester, William S. Craven, Dermond E. Patterson, Ray A. Moore, Jesse E. longwill, Jr., Robert W. Jahelka, William F. Axtman, Bob A. Phelps, Michael G. Sylvia, Robert Egizi.

In addition, while on military leave, Fireman John M. Randall of Engine Company 11, was killed in a training accident on April 19, 1943.

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 Fallen Firefighter Memorial.

Posted by dbarrett at 03:03 AM | Comments ( 0 )

March 05, 2006

March Losses

Firefighting is known as a dangerous job. When one thinks about firefighters, often the image that comes to mind is of a firefighter emerging from a building with flames all around, clutching a child to his or her chest, saving someone from the flames.

Yet the reality is that every aspect of firefighting is challenging. The history of losses within the LAFD highlights the range of dangers that every firefighter knowingly accepts on a daily basis. Not only is flame and smoke a threat, but simply responding to an alarm, operating apparatus, or training with equipment all conspire to keep firefighter's on their toes. Trainees are taught to, "fight like your life depends on it. Because it does."

photo by David Blair

March 1998 was a particularly difficult month for the Los Angeles Fire Department. After 14 years without a fatality, the department faced death multiple times within two weeks.

On March 8th, at 2:20 in the morning, a major emergency structure fire was reported and a first alarm assignment sent Task Force 66, RA 866, Engine 57, Engine 46, Light Force 33, Engine 34, and Battalion 13 to the location on S Western Avenue. Engine 33 added themselves to the assignment.

Although only light smoke was showing on arrival of first-in Task Force 66, within minutes it was clear there was a working fire within the center of the building. A series of companies entered the building and using hand lines, pikes and flashlights attempted to reach the heart of the fire. Visibility dropped to near zero and several firefighters were temporarily separated from their crews, resulting in at least one emergency trigger (on radio) to be activated and crews splitting their attention between fire fighting and locating their missing members. As the fire grew, additional units, division command and the on-call deputy commander arrived on-scene.

Within minutes, all companies were ordered out of the building and off the roof. It was during this time period that Captain I Joseph C. Dupee of Engine 57 became separated from his crew. Within minutes, the Rapid Intervention Company (RIC TEAM) entered the building to search for Captain Dupee and a RED ALERT condition was radioed to OCD. The RIC team found Captain Dupee, with his PAL device sounding at approximately 2:58AM. Despite medical treatment, including CPR and rapid transport by RA 66 to Daniel Freeman Hospital, Captain Dupee was not able to be revived. He was declared DOA at the hospital.

Two weeks later, on March 23, a traffic accident on Sunland Blvd. resulted in life-treatening injuries to an 11-year old girl. LAFD RA 81, manned by Paramedics Eric Reiner and Michael Butler, responded to the TA and upon arrival, determined that an air ambulance to Children's Hospital would be the most effective method of transport.

OCD dispatched Fire 3, a Bell 205 helicopter from the Van Nuys Air Ops center. Within minutes, pilot Steven Robinson landed the helicopter and the patient was loaded, along with Butler, Reiner, Heli-Tac Firefighter Dennis Silgen (FS 90) and AO Michael McComb (FS 90 and acting in a Heli-Tac capacity) for the short ride to Children's Hospital.

Within a few minutes of getting airborne, the tail rotor on the Bell helicopter suddenly separated from the aircraft. Although helicopters have remarkable air worthy capabilities, the loss of a complete rotor assembly makes continued flight problematic. Still, pilot Robinson managed to keep the aircraft aloft for perhaps a half mile, moving out of the way of homes and civilians on the street. Just clear of the populated area beneath them, the aircraft finally tore through a wooded area in Los Feliz and flipped onto its side.

The child patient died in the impact, as did firefighter McComb and Paramedics Butler and Reiner. Pilot Stevenson and Firefighter Silgen survived, although with serious injuries. Butler and Reiner were close friends on and off the job, and shortly before the accident, Michael Butler had written a poem about the job he and his friend Reiner enjoyed. After the accident, Paramedic Reiner's son, Nicholas, wrote a poem about the loss of his dad. The complete history of both of these major incidents, background material and the two poems can be found in the Los Angeles Fire Department Memorial Book.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of March:

Fireman Louis Tree
Truck Company 4
Died March 21, 1929

Fireman John H. Herbert
Truck Company 4
Died March 20, 1949

Fireman Thomas O. Morse
Truck Company 26
Died March 11, 1961

Fireman Kenneth E. Rupp
Fire Station 109/Tractor Company
Died March 28, 1971

Captain Kenneth D. Kinnaman
Engine Company 38
Died March 22, 1973

Captain Joseph C. Dupee
Engine Company 57
Died March 8, 1998

Apparatus Operator Michael D. McComb
Truck Company 90
Died March 23, 1998

Firefighter/Lead Paramedic Eric F. Reiner
Rescue Ambulance 81
Died March 23, 1998

Firefighter/Paramedic Michael A. Butler
Rescue Ambulance 81
Died March 23, 1998

In addition to those members listed above, a number of firefighters died in February months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Harry D. Buttles, Lon R. VanTuyl, Eddie B. Eade, Clarence E. Long, Charles A. Riley, Harlon E. Cunningham, Eugene B. Dixon, Jr., James E. Johnson, Zachary G. Fenley, Glen E. Taylor, Edward A. Harpham, William C. Walker, Vernon D. Raden, Donald V. Mello, Jerome Smith.

Posted by dbarrett at 04:09 PM | Comments ( 5 )

March 01, 2006

The Eternal Scar

On March 23, 1998, while transporting a patient to Children's Hospital, the Los Angeles Fire Department suffered one of its worst tragedies. Fire 3, a Bell 205-A1 helicopter, lost its tail rotor and fell into a wooded area in Los Feliz at approximately 7:43AM. Three firefighters died, including Apparatus Operator Michael D McComb (FS 90), Firefighter Lead Paramedic Eric F. Reiner (RA 81), and his close friend, Firefighter Paramedic Michael A. Butler (RA 81). The 11-year old patient was also killed. Pilot Steven Robinson (Air Ops) and Firefighter Dennis J. Silgen (FS 90) survived, although they suffered serious injuries.

photo by Jeff Miller

Firefighter Reiner's son, Nicholas wrote a remarkable poem about that day. He read it aloud during the 2003 Memorial Service at the Los Angeles Fire Department Historical Society and Museum in front of hundreds of onlookers, including the Reiner family, other firefighter widows, family members, LAFD senior officers, the Chief Engineer, Mayor of Los Angeles, and LAFD rank and file. Here is an excerpt from his poem:

March 23rd, an ordinary day, just one to forget.
Maybe for you, but not for me, not yet.
I was changed that morning, changed in my soul and my heart,
A morning for me that will stand apart.
My Dad died that day doing what he did best
Saving lives without much rest.
The helicopter - the cradle of life had rudder failure and started to descend.
The girl in the chopper dying, my dad and others gave a hand to lend.
The aircraft was lost, my Dad lost with it.
I was thunderstruck, shocked and utterly sad
That my life had taken this turn because of the loss of my Dad
I didn't know what to think, or say
I experienced nothing but sadness that horrible day...

The entire poem is published in the Los Angeles Fire Department Memorial Book, available from the LAFD Historical Society or via the LAFD Museum in Hollywood.

Posted by dbarrett at 02:29 AM | Comments ( 2 )

February 15, 2006

Memorial Construction Update

Construction on the Los Angeles Fire Department Fallen Firefighter Memorial continues. Steel has been laid on the plaza in front of old Fire Station 27 in preparation for concrete pouring that will take place during the coming week. Even without the concrete in place, it's exciting to see the clean, elegant space beginning to take shape.

Here is another view of the plaza, prior to concrete being poured. It will take several days to completely cover the plaza.

In addition to the concrete phase, designer Yoshikawa (with some help) installed the tempered glass with the beautiful etched badge into the arched section of the monument.

A further update will be made available in the coming week. For information on the memorial, or to donate in support of completion, please contact Director of Operations Frank W. Borden, LAFD A.C. DIV 1 RET. at (323) 464-2727.

Posted by dbarrett at 01:37 AM | Comments ( 0 )

February 01, 2006

February Losses

In the early days of the Los Angeles Fire Department, accidents were as likely to cause injury or death as fire. Apparatus were pulled by horses, steam was present, the first cars on the roads were not equipped with seat belts, and there were far fewer safety devices.

Fire apparatus were often involved in accidents in the early days. Fireman Harry J. Custer of Truck 5 died on February 12, 1922 as a result of an collision in which his Aerial Ladder Truck was struck by a Long Beach Pacific Electric car. The company was en route to a reported fire. Fireman Custer died at the scene, and of some interest, his wife Clara arrived and was with him when he passed on.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of February:

Captain Clinton Johnson
Engine Company 8
Died February 12, 1905

Engineer Harry E. Buckingham
Engine Company 20
Died February 9, 1909

Fireman Harry J. Custer
Truck Company 5
Died February 12, 1922

Captain Clifford L. Collord, Jr.

Engine Company 32
Died February 7, 1968

Firefighter Paul R. Widrig, Jr.
Engine Company 33
Died February 23, 1972

Firefighter Theodore A. Currie
Engine Company 33
Died February 23, 1972

In addition to those members listed above, a number of firefighters died in February months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Cecil B. West, Eduardo Valenzuela, Harry M. Rice, James Von Eschen, Wilford L. Chambers, Roy G. Schubert, William M. Enlow, Jr., Raymond A Heaton, Stephen T. Barnes, Harry, J. Reeder, Luis P. Lopez, James C. Allnutt, K. Dean, Stockton, Henry L. Pala, David R. Brouillette, Richard M. Sturdy, Donald S. McIntyre, Thomas W. Lally, John C. Walters.

Posted by dbarrett at 01:15 AM | Comments ( 0 )

January 01, 2006

January Losses

As we begin the new year, thoughts of progress, advancement and renewal fill our minds. The coming year is always filled with new opportunities and the chance to "have a better year." Often, in our haste to leave the previous year behind, we miss out on the opportunity to learn from the past - and such education is often important to our options for success in the future.

The Los Angeles Fire Department works diligently to learn from its history. Many of the tactics, techniques, and policies in place today are the result of fire fighting and rescue incidents in days, months, and years past. And sometimes, those incidents have had a dramatic emotional impact on the department, including on occasion, the loss of a department member while serving in the line of duty. Let's remember those who gave their lives, so that others might live - not only as a result of the incident they were involved in, but as a result of the actions taken following and the lessons learned. Have a safe and prosperous 2006.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of January:

Captain Harry B. Stires
Engine Company 11
Died January 09, 1934

Inspector Robert L. Gillies, Jr.
Mountain Patrol
Died January 14, 1962

Apparatus Operator Thomas G. Taylor
Truck Company 60
Died January 28, 1981

Captain II Raymond Peterman
Light Force 28
Died January 17, 2004

In addition to those individuals listed above, a number of firefighters died in January months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Jay D. Hall, William W. Tebbets, William A. Cox, Stanley L. Pringle, John E. Cochrane, Charles A. Crosby, Carl N. Carter, Leroy W. Pollard, Nick Uruburu, Raymond B. Cato, Donald E. Thompson, David R. Brouillette.

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. We also invite you to visit the Fallen Firefighter Memorial, now available to be viewed as it enters the final phases of construction - in front of Old Fire Station 27 in Hollywood, just south of Sunset Blvd. Old Fire Station 27 is also one of our two museums and may be visited on any Saturday from 10AM until 4PM. Additional information is available here within the website.

Posted by dbarrett at 01:22 AM | Comments ( 0 )

December 01, 2005

December Losses

December is typically a time of good cheer. Firefighters expect fire in December, as christmas trees and other flammable items tend to be ignored - until there is a serious problem. For Los Angeles City Firefighters, December is just like any other month, and each firefighter pulling on his or her turnouts for an emergency call knows the risks that any fire can bring.

It is unfortunate that on occasion, a life is lost during this time of year, yet it has been impossible to avoid during the past 120 year history of the department. Regardless of the time of year, we wish to remember those members who served their community and gave their lives so that others might live.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of December:

Fireman Adolph Hermanson
Engine Company 10
Died December 30, 1910

Fireman Ross G. Sechrist
Engine Company 31
Died December 24, 1926

Auto Fireman John C. Hough
Engine Company 3
Died December 11, 1939

Fireman James E. Hassan
Engine Company 27
Died December 11, 1958

Firefighter Benjamin Pinel
Engine Company 54
Died December 4, 1984

In addition to those members listed above, a number of firefighters died in December months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Elmo M. McKallip, Michael J. Fay, Ivan R. Case, John Lind, Harold B. Lawrence, Samuel L. Moore, Richard F. Farmer, Willard W. Gibson, Fred A DeWeese, Clement R. Herring, Glen E. Taylor, Keith D. Kroll, Eric Wolfenstein, Royce B. Turner, Donald D. Sutton, James L. Ott.

Fireman Donald W. Starbird was on military leave, serving with the 23rd Bomb Squadron, 5th Bomb Group when he was killed in action on December 5, 1944 when the B-25 Mitchell he was in crashed on takeoff in New Guinea.

Posted by dbarrett at 01:06 AM | Comments ( 0 )

November 05, 2005

Memorial Progress Report

Construction related to the LAFD Fallen Firefighter Memorial continues. A cement slab has been poured in front of the Museum. It will meet the pavers. A slab was also poured in front on the monument to extend it out, and our dedicated workers, Gary and Jeff are working on the forms for the fence.

This image shows the front of the museum and the new cement slab.

This image highlights construction of the new fence around the perimeter of the plaza.

This image is a new overview, showing the monuments, the wall and the plaza.

Posted by dbarrett at 02:03 AM | Comments ( 0 )

November 01, 2005

November Losses

The month of November has been traditionally an unusual month regarding loss of life within the Los Angeles Fire Department. From its earliest days to the recent past, a significant number of firefighters have died while serving their community.

One of the reasons we list the losses and work to remember these public servants is to build awareness so that future losses may be avoided. We cannot change the past, but we can learn from it.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of November:

Call Fireman Sam Haskins
Engine Company 2
Died November 19, 1895

Assistant Chief Charles Fuselehr
Headquarters, downtown Los Angeles
Died November 15, 1902

Fireman Harry C. Powell
Engine Company 9
Died November 19 1922

Fireman Joseph W. Kacl
Engine Company 3
Died November 6, 1939

Fireman James C Slinkard
Engine Company 8
Died November 8, 1941

Fireman Hugh J. Travers
Salvage Company 28
Died November 23, 1947

Fireman Clyde Neff, Jr.
Engine Company 4
Died November 2, 1949

Fireman James L. Catlow
Engine Company 39
Died November 12, 1955

Fireman Robert C. Gladden
Engine Company 69
Died November 25, 1969

In addition to Fireman Lechert, a number of firefighters died in November months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Cliford T. Atkins, Reginald McCarbery, Steven M. Urbano, Carl E. Clapper, Warren W Worthington, Kenneth K. Pollard, John W. Almond, Earl L. Young, Jr., Marian J. Wilson, Barry F. Broughton, David L. Welch, Emmett J. Wilhite, David B. McDonald, Bennie B. Collins, Earl L. Dawkins, William C. Stace.

Fireman Harold Jonathan was on military leave, serving with the 355th Infantry Regiment of the 84th Division when he was killed in action on November 29, 1944 on the Western Front in Germany.

Posted by dbarrett at 01:13 AM | Comments ( 1 )

October 01, 2005

October Losses

Firefighters face death on a routine basis. Fire, smoke, heat, and accidents are all considered part of the job. On occasion, general health issues step in to claim the life of a firefighter as well.

As many firefighters know, there are also trends that, for whatever reason, seem to occur relative to the job. Some people may think it is the origin of superstitious beliefs, but more than likely, it's just nature at work. And October, for unknown reasons, is a month wherein death from non-fire related causes seems to take its toll. Most deaths due to heart attack and cancer took the lives of those listed below while off duty. In one case, a heart attack on a warm October day stepped in to cut short the career of a well-liked L.A. Fireman.

Andrew Lechert was on scene with Engine 73 at a grass fire in a vacant lot in the San Fernando Valley when he fell over while pulling a hose line. Attendants from Rescue 39 attempted to revive Lechert, but there was nothing to be done. He was born November 30, 1898 in Chicago, Illinois and appointed to the department on October 17, 1928.

We would like to remember all those who died during the month of October, including:

Fireman Andrew A. Lechert
Engine Company 73
Died October 26, 1949

In addition to firefighter Lechert listed above, a number of firefighters died in October months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Walthall O. Fitch, Erik Rasmussen, Joaquin L. Constantine, Chris A. Hansen, Walter Simpson, Charles E. Kramer, Leonard R. Askham, Dennis P. Hartigan, Howard T. Allen, Richard S. Stephens, Orville G. McLean, James L. Stewart, Donald G. Wardell, William C. Walker, James A. Hancock, Robert W. Jahelka, David E. Yost.

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. We also invite you to visit the Fallen Firefighter Memorial, now available to be viewed as it enters the final phases of construction - in front of Old Fire Station 27 in Hollywood, just south of Sunset Blvd. Old Fire Station 27 is also one of our two museums and may be visited on any Saturday from 10AM until 4PM. Additional information is available here within the website.

Posted by dbarrett at 12:10 AM | Comments ( 0 )

September 01, 2005

September Losses

On September 27, 1980, after waiting more than 90 minutes, a guard at the Naval and Marine Reserve Center near Dodger Stadium determined that smoke coming from vents in the building must be fire, not generators being tested, as he initially assumed. As first-in firefighters arrived, nobody told them the building had been burning for more than an hour and a half.

Truck companies, including Truck 1 laddered the roof and began to cut holes to vent the fire. Firefighter Frank Hotchkin, a member of the department for three years, went to get a pike pole - and wasn't seen again. It was determined that the weakened roof collapsed under him and he fell into the fire and was killed. Today, the Naval and Marine Reserve Center is an LAFD Training Facility - and it is named after the firefighter who gave his life doing what he was trained to do; to protect the citizens of Los Angeles and their property. You can read more about Frank in the Historical Society website.

The following represents firefighters who lost their lives during the month of September:

Captain Elwood H. Henry
Engine Company 10
Died September 14, 1930

Captain Lawrence W. Krumsiek
Engine Company 2
Died September 8, 1935

Firefighter George A. Damrom
Truck Company 2
Died September 12, 1935

Firefighter Benjamin O. "Tex" Gause
Aide to Battalion 10
Died September 9, 1940

Firefighter Donald J. Romps
Truck Company 30
Died September 11, 1970

Firefighter Frank Hotchkin
Truck Company 1
Died September 27, 1980

In addition to these brave individuals, a number of firefighters died in September months past due to non-incident related causes and we remember them here: Clifford T. Atkins, Toney Arguello, Newton H. Scarbrough, Carl F. Toneck, George W. Brown, Robert J. Rainey, Eddie B. Eade, Richard J. Philips, William L. Wiesinger, Robert K. Lovell, Clark L. Hodgson, Purdie R. Kenyon, Jess Amato, Robert Amato, Walter K. Hoffman, Peter J. McHugh, Kelly R. Hoss, Robert E. Aker.

Several Los Angeles firefighters also lost their lives while on Military Leave during the month of September. These include: Fred C. Hawtrey (WW I) and Ronald R. King(Viet Nam).

Remember to attend the first annual Firefighter Festival in Hollywood on October 1st, 2005 at old Fire Station 27, beginning at 10AM. A parade, food, music and other entertainment will help the community celebrate the spirit of the department that protects you on a daily basis.

Posted by dbarrett at 12:02 AM | Comments ( 0 )