SUPREME SACRIFICE - May 27
Hank Przybylowicz
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| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
| May 27 |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1916 - BALTIMORE, MD
Capt. Thomas J. Strahler - Truck 11 - Age 57 - 35-year veteran
While responding to an alarm as the Acting 3rd Battalion Chief, he was
crushed to death when his car was struck and overturned on top of him.
1966 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F James E. Linekin - Fire Emergency Division - 33-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
"A funny thing about firemen......
night and day, they're always firemen."
-- Donald Sutherland
"Backdraft"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. If you have a moment, and it so be your
belief, say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask that
He grant them eternal rest and peace in His kingdom.
Stay safe, all,
Chief Hank
LODRS
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1857 - NEWARK, NJ
Vol. Capt. Jacob Allen - Engine 4
While battling a major fire in a rubber factory, he suffered a massive
skull fracture, and another F/F was seriously injured, when they were
caught under a collapsing smokestack. He was the first member of the NFD
to lose his life in the line of duty.
1922 - QUEENS, NY
F/F James V. O'Donnell - Engine 259
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day while
working at a 4-alarm fire.
1938 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Arthur J. Kinsella - Engine 27
He suffered a fatal heart attack while driving the hose wagon to an
alarm.
1947 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F William Griffin - Truck 15
He was killed in a collision between Truck 15 and a bus while responding
to an alarm.
1971 - BROOKLYN, NY
Lt. Thomas P. Sheridan - Engine 323 - 18-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1912 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F George Laughlin - Engine 53
He was killed when he was struck by a train while fighting a 4-alarm
structure fire.
1932 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. James O'Donnell - Ladder 163
He died of smoke inhalation while working at a fire.
1938 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Frederick Esch - Engine 110
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while drilling with a shut
off pipe on May 18th.
1940 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Patrick Devlin - Engine 277
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in a collision between
Engine 277 and a milk truck.
1967 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Robert J. Campbell - Truck 12
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when he fell from the truck
while responding to an alarm.
1971 - ATLANTA, GA
Capt. Lewis B. Grady - Engine 15 - Age 30 - 11-year veteran
F/F Verlon J. Crider - Engine 15 - Age 30 - 1-year veteran
F/F Charles D. Fernander - Ladder 11 - Age 26 - 4-year veteran
F/F Howard H. Beck - Ladder 11 - Age 30 - 4-year veteran
While fighting a stubborn 4-alarm cellar fire in a restaurant, a massive
gas explosion occurred, dropping them into the basement of the building.
Their bodies were later discovered lying under several booths in 3 feet
of water. Two dozen other F/Fs were injured in the blast, 16 of whom
required emergency surgery, and 4 were placed in intensive care units.
1985 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Raymond Magnus - Truck 35 - Age 41 - 8-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained May 26th, when he fell from
the roof of a burning 2-story apartment building while ventilating. He
had been blinded by heavy smoke and fell from the roof with a saw.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1913 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Emil Myers - Engine 27 - Age 28 - 3-year veteran
While washing windows in quarters, he slipped on a bar of soap and fell
through a window. He began to bleed profusely from a severe gash in his
arm and was rushed to the hospital, 2 blocks away, on top of the hose
wagon. Before they could get to the hospital, he bled to death.
1933 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Edward LaHart - Engine 43
He died in the performance of his duties.
1936 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Hodd Bond - Engine 19
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when Engine 19 collided
with another vehicle while responding to an alarm.
1942 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Batt. Chief Frederick E. Fries - Battalion 2 - Age 46 - 22-year veteran
While directing operations at a 2-alarm fire, he suffered a fatal heart
attack.
1944 - STATEN ISLAND, NY
Lt. Harold J. Curran - Engine 161 (det. to Engine 154)
He died as a result of the severe smoke inhalation he suffered the
previous day, while fighting a stubborn and smoky ship fire.
1976 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Patrick J. Cleary - Engine 219 - 16-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a single-alarm fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1853 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. Capt. George W. Trenchard - Engine 16
He was killed while fighting a fire.
1899 - BALTIMORE, MD
Capt. Dennis D. O'Keefe - Truck 6 - Age 33 - 11-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day, when he
was kicked by one of the horses while drilling in front of quarters.
1914 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Harry Lambe - Engine 70
He was killed when he was thrown from the apparatus while responding to
an alarm.
1930 - QUEENS, NY
F/F John J. Whelan - Ladder 152
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day while
responding to an alarm.
1939 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Thomas E. Faulkner - Truck 23
Upon reaching quarters after fighting a 2-alarm fire, he climbed down
from the tiller and told the lieutenant he felt sick and couldn't back
the truck into quarters. He walked through the door a few steps and
collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced DOA of
an apparent massive heart attack.
1945 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Everett L. Jackson - Engine 12 - Age 49 - 15-year veteran
He suffered an acute heart attack while fighting a major fire at the
Fort Harrison Army Base in Lawrence, which had been started by rioting
army prisoners. He was taken to the camp hospital, where he died a few
hours later.
1959 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Richard W. Schultz - Ladder 129
He died in the performance of his duties.
1961 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Matczynski - Engine 41
He died while fighting a 4-alarm fire in a paper warehouse.
1961 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Lichamer - Engine 99
He died in quarters while on duty.
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them."
-- Laurence Binyon
1869 - 1943
"For The Fallen"
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1876 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Carroll - Engine 15
He was killed when he was thrown from the hose wagon while responding to
an alarm.
1887 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F James Rehill - Ladder 8
While operating at a fire, he was killed when he was struck by a bale of
cotton which had fallen from the 8th floor.
1900 - FOXBORO, MA
Vol. F/F George Josselyn - Age 43
Vol. F/F Joseph Watkins - Age 26
While battling a general-alarm blaze in a hotel, 3 F/Fs took a handline
up a ladder and were working the line on the upper floors of the burning
building. Without warning, the fire quickly spread to the hotel's bell
tower, causing it to collapse. A large bell and tons of flaming debris
rained down on the men on the ladder. F/Fs Josselyn and Watkins suffered
crushing injuries and burns, and were taken to their homes, where they
both died later in the day. A third F/F was also critically injured and
died June 6th. They were the first members of the department to die in
the line of duty.
1904 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F James W. Gerdes - Engine 3
He suffered a severe skull fracture while testing hose.
1967 - CHICAGO, IL
Batt. Chief John Spellman - Battalion 7
He was electrocuted at a 2-alarm fire when an aerial ladder struck high
tension wires as it was being lowered.
1977 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Lt. Thomas M. Donoghue - Engine 4 - Age 51 - 24-year veteran
He died of the effects of an acute heart attack he suffered the previous
day, while working at an arson fire involving 3 houses.
1991 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Edward Arthur - Truck 12 - Age 37 - 14-year veteran
While standing on the tiller step during the driver training of a new
tillerman, he was thrown to the ground, where he suffered severe head
and neck injuries.
"They shall grow old not, as we that are left grow old:
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1901 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Daniel Riordan - Truck 9
He died as a result of injuries he sustained May 31st, when he fell down
a pole hole in quarters.
1938 - SEATTLE, WA
F/F Theodore R. Cousland - Engine 25
He died in the performance of his duties.
1956 - SPOKANE, WA
Capt. Leonard W. Doyle - Ladder 4 - Age 37 - 15-year veteran
While working at a 3-alarm fire, he was killed when he fell into the
basement of the burning structure and was crushed by falling debris. A
total of 17 F/Fs were injured battling the blaze.
1960 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Murphy - Repair Shop
He suffered a fatal heart attack while making repairs to an apparatus.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1895 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Thomas J. Martin - Engine 6
While working at a stable fire, he was overcome by heat and smoke, and
died as a result.
1921 - ATLANTA, GA
Lt. Timothy J. Driscoll - Engine 9 - 26-year veteran
He died as a result of the injuries he sustained February 7, 1915, when
he was thrown from the hose wagon after it collided with a car while
responding to an alarm. He suffered severe head and back injuries, which
left him paralyzed and an invalid. A F/F died February 9, 1915 also as a
result of injuries sustained in the wreck.
1933 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F George France - Engine 62
He died in the performance of his duties.
1986 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Theodore Jezuit - Engine 9
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a rubbish fire in
O'Hare Airport.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1916 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Nicholas Wilberscheid - Engine 57
He died as a result of the injuries he sustained when he fell from the
driver's seat of the apparatus in front of Engine 35's quarters, which
they had relocated to.
1940 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Michael Moline - Engine 23
He died as a result of inhaling burning celluloid fumes while fighting a
5-alarm fire in a toy factory.
1952 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F George J. Hand - Hose 3
F/F William R. Smith - Truck 9
While responding to the same alarm, Hose 3 and Truck 9 collided with
great force. Both units locked together and careened across the street,
striking a car which had stopped to allow them to pass. F/F Hand, who
was Acting Lt., was thrown from the front seat, suffering fatal internal
injuries. F/F Smith was ejected from the driver's seat and crushed to
death under the wheels of Hose 3. A total of 6 other F/Fs were injured,
4 seriously.
1955 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. Thomas R. Dore - Rescue 4
He died from the effects of severe smoke inhalation he suffered while
working at a stubborn 3-alarm cellar fire on May 6th.
1962 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Edward M. White - Engine 91 - 2-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in quarters May 28th, while
on duty.
1975 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. Hubert F. Moran - Ladder 6
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on May 11th, when he fell
through a floor while working at a fire.
1994 - NEWPORT NEWS, VA
F/F Anthony Covas - 20-year veteran
After taking part in the morning exercise routine and eating lunch, he
had gone into a separate room in the firehouse. Several hours later, he
as found in cardiac arrest.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1869 - BOSTON, MA
F/F George F.C. Hamilton - Engine 8
He died as a result of the severe illness he contracted after being
seriously exposed to the cold, while fighting a 3-alarm fire on March
25th.
1912 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Joseph Ballak - Engine 51
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when he fell down a pole
hole in quarters while on duty the previous day.
1925 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F John R. Minnick - Ladder 5
He died in the performance of his duties.
1929 - BRONX, NY
F/F Louis Lubcker - Engine 50
He suffered a fatal heart attack while performing company evolutions at
the Fire School.
1946 - CHICAGO, IL
Batt. Chief Eugene Freemon - Battalion 1
He died of smoke inhalation while battling the 7-alarm LaSalle Hotel
fire, in which 61 occupants died either by asphyxiation or by jumping
from windows.
1947 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Lawrence Maggioncalda - Engine 119
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1995 - ARNOLD, MO
F/F William E. Walls - Rock Community FPD - Age 36 - 12-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack after fighting a fire in a mobile home.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1900 - FOXBORO, MA
Vol. F/F Arthur Josselyn - Age 40
He died as a result of the burns and crushing injuries he sustained June
1st, when the bell tower of the Foxboro Town House Hotel collapsed as
they were fighting a major fire there. Two other F/Fs, one being F/F
Josselyn's brother, were also injured and died that day.
1905 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Bartholomew Cloonan - Engine 28
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when he was thrown from the
driver's seat while responding to an alarm on April 4th.
1910 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Timothy Cotter - Engine 6
F/F William F. Healy - Engine 10
They died from the effects of inhaling deadly fumes from burning aniline
dyes as they fought a 2-alarm fire in a warehouse stocked with liquors
and dyes. At least 2 dozen other F/Fs were also overcome and experienced
breathing difficulties.
1916 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Thomas Fitzgerald - Engine 3
He died in the performance of his duties.
1931 - BROOKLYN, NY
Batt. Chief John J. Dooley - Battalion 48
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while responding to an
alarm on April 16th.
1962 - MANHATTAN, NY
Dep. Chief Frank J. Turner - Medical Division
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1980 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Donald M. Bub - Engine 47 - 14-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a single-alarm fire.
1995 - EAU CLAIRE, MI
Chief Bradley E. Hocking Sr. - Pipestone-Berrien Twp. F.D.
He died of the effects of an acute heart attack he suffered while at the
scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident on June 3rd.
1995 - EDISON, NJ
Lt. Peter E. Borwegan - Engine 11
He was found lying unconscious on the firehouse floor while on duty. CPR
was started and he was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced
dead.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1865 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Trainor - Engine 5
F/F Ignatz Geiss - Engine 9
They were both killed, and 6 other F/Fs were injured, when they were
caught under a collapsing wall while fighting a warehouse fire.
1866 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Daniel Heartt - Engine 8
He was killed when he was struck by a train while responding to a major
fire.
1896 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Cornelius Kerin - Engine 18
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on May 29th, when he fell
from a Pompier (scaling) ladder while drilling.
1899 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Timothy Clifford - Repair Shop
He died as a result of injuries sustained the previous day, when he fell
from the driver's seat of a supply wagon.
1995 - EAGLE PASS, TX
F/F David Barrera
He died of the effects of a seizure, which he suffered while on duty in
the dispatch office.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1905 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F John Carbush - Engine 202
He was killed when the roof collapsed on top of him while fighting a
3-alarm fire in a cotton storage warehouse.
1917 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Clarence Christensen - Engine 3
He was killed while driving Engine 3 to an alarm.
1920 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Milford Dorff Sr. - Water Tower 2
He died in the performance of his duties.
1952 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Charles Trocke - Engine 14
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day, when he
and 6 other F/Fs were caught under a collapsing wall while fighting a
4-alarm fire in a paper box factory. A second F/F died 18 years later as
a result of injuries he never recovered from.
1984 - BRISTOL, PA
Vol. Asst. Chief Julian R. Bley Sr. - Age 53
While assisting in taking down a portable aluminum ladder after a fire
in a soap plant, he was electrocuted when the ladder came in contact
with an overhead high-voltage power line. The 2 other F/Fs were shocked,
but survived. A suspect was arrested shortly thereafter and charged with
arson and murder. He allegedly threw a flare into the guard shack during
a labor strike at the plant.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1922 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Joseph C. Wooley - Engine 22
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on June 3rd, when Engines 4
and 22 collided while responding to an alarm. He was pitched over the
apparatus by the force of the impact, and was thrown down a flight of
exterior cellar stairs.
1946 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F George R. Parson - Ladder 8
He died in the performance of his duties.
1960 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F William Donnelly - Truck 29
He suddenly collapsed and died while working at a fire.
1972 - PIERRE, SD
Fire Marshall William Walker
He was killed in a collision while responding to investigate a fire.
1994 - RICHLAND, PA
Vol. F/F Victor J. Ruth III - Neptune Fire Co. #1
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding with his company to a
med-evac stand-by.
1995 - ADDINGTON, OK
F/F Richard A. Hogan - Age 34 - Sheppard AFB FD
F/F Christopher Rezac - Age 23 - Sheppard AFB FD
They were operating on mutual aid at a lightning-sparked fire involving
a 55,000-gallon oil tank. Suddenly, there was a boilover and thousands
of gallons of burning oil boiled out of the top of the tank and flowed
out of the diked area. As they were covering fellow F/Fs that were
caught in the boilover, their apparatus became mired down and they were
forced to abandon it. They tried to outrun the fast-moving fire, but
were quickly overtaken.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1977 - GREENPORT, NY
F/F Richard Sycz - Age 27
F/F Edward B. Bellefountaine - Age 18
While searching for a reported trapped child on the 2nd floor at a fire
in a 2-story frame house, they were caught in a locked room and trapped.
Both quickly became disoriented in the heavy smoke and ran out of air.
They were found unconscious, with their facepieces off. It was later
discovered that the child had left the building with her father prior to
the arrival of F/Fs.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1928 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Fred Sommer - Engine 60
He died of suffocation while working at a fire.
1944 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Charles McClaughry - Truck 33
He suffered a fatal heart attack after returning to quarters from a
3-alarm apartment house fire.
1955 - BRONX, NY
F/F John J. Daly II - Engine 70
He died in the performance of his duties.
1966 - LEAD, SD
Vol. F/F John J. Korpie
While fighting a major structure fire, he was killed when he was caught
under a collapsing wall following an explosion.
1969 - AKRON, OH
F/F James F.A. Wise
He died in the performance of his duties.
1973 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Robert F. Malley - Engine 24
F/F John Welsh - Ladder 5
During a 3-alarm fire in an ink factory, a massive explosion occurred,
pushing the walls of the building out onto F/Fs. The fire quickly went
to 8-alarms as it spread to 2 other buildings in the complex and to a
row of dwellings across the street. F/Fs Malley and Welsh were killed
when they were caught under a collapsing wall. A total of 37 other F/Fs
were injured, either by falling walls or the explosion.
1995 - LEVITTOWN, NY
Comm. Kevin J. Sutch
He suffered a fatal heart attack while attending a convention in Albany,
NY.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1930 - WASHINGTON, DC
Batt. Chief Peter R. Davis - Act. Dep. Chief
While working at a 4-alarm fire in a hardware store, he was killed when
the ladder he was on collapsed, pitching him to the pavement below. He
suffered a fractured skull and a broken back.
1946 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Michael J. Berkery - Engine 203
While battling a 4-alarm fire aboard a freighter, he and another F/F
were struck by a high pressure hose stream and knocked into the water.
Another F/F jumped in the water and rescued one of the men, but by the
time F/F Berkery was found, he had drowned.
1950 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F John J. Krupp - Ladder 10
He died in the performance of his duties.
1965 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Joseph McIntyre - Fireboat 3
He died in the performance of his duties.
1969 - NEWARK, NJ
Capt. Thomas F. Martin - Engine 29
After a night tour, he was found lying in his bunk, dead of an apparent
massive heart attack.
1974 - BRONX, NY
F/F Harold J. Hoey Jr. - Ladder 17 - 5-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while attempting to rescue
2 people from the roof of a burning 6-story tenement the previous day.
He was in the bucket of the tower ladder, when it got snagged on the
cornice of the building. As it got free, he was catapulted to the street
below.
1984 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Joseph L. Konrad Jr. - Engine 25 - Age 37
While making an aggressive interior attack on a fire in a vacant 3-story
rowhouse, with a report of a woman trapped, 6 F/Fs were pitched into the
cellar when the 1st and 2nd floors collapsed. Three of them were rescued
immediately, with minor injuries, and two more were extricated shortly
after, suffering burns, cuts, and bruises. After 2 hours of digging, F/F
Konrad was found and rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced
dead of multiple trauma, burns, and smoke inhalation. There never was a
woman in the building, and a neighborhood resident was later arrested
and charged with arson and murder in connection with the blaze.
1994 - PARKERSBURG, WV
Vol. F/F Marc L. Butcher
He suffered a fatal heart attack while sleeping in his bunk in quarters.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1879 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Henry Coyle - Engine 11
While responding to an alarm, he fell into a river and drowned.
1915 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F John McGowan - Engine 49
He died in the performance of his duties.
1929 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F James H. Murphy - Ladder 9
He was one of several F/Fs who became trapped while operating at an
exceptionally severe 2-alarm cellar fire. After he was found, all
efforts to revive him failed, and he was pronounced dead of smoke
inhalation. Many additional F/Fs were overcome in the rescue effort.
1957 - BRONX, NY
F/F James E. McArdle - Engine 75
He died as a result of injuries he had sustained in the performance of
his duties.
1963 - RICHMOND, VA
Capt. Harvey Hick
F/F Douglas P. Evans
They were killed while attempting to rescue a sewer worker who had
become overcome by fumes in a sewer line.
1979 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Walter J. Smith Jr. - Ladder 24 - 18-month veteran
While operating at a 4-alarm fire in Macy's department store, he became
disoriented and separated from his company when conditions quickly
deteriorated. Due to extremely heavy smoke and heat conditions, F/Fs
could not launch a search and rescue effort until about 150 windows were
taken out to help relieve the heavy smoke condition. He was found lying
face down, with his air cylinder empty.
1994 - LAKE HAVASU CITY, AZ
F/F Ronald E. Holmgreen
During a drill, he exhibited signs of cardiac distress and went home.
Shortly after his arrival there, he suffered a fatal heart attack.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1921 - PORTLAND, OR
F/F Karl Gunster
He died of smoke inhalation while fighting an apartment house fire.
1922 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Emmet F. Donnelly - Ladder 134
He was killed, and another F/F was critically injured, when they were
caught under a collapsing chimney while fighting an 8-alarm fire in the
Rockaway Beach section of the city. The injured F/F died of his injuries
at a later date.
1975 - GREATER CINCINNATI, KY
While fighting a general-alarm fire in a renovated airport terminal, 2
airport F/Fs lost their lives. Mutual aid F/Fs making an interior attack
found the bodies of the 2 men. No one had any prior knowledge of the 2
men being in the building. Both were equipped with SCBAs, which had run
out of air.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1875 - BOSTON, MA
F/F John H. Kelley - Ladder 4
During a fire in a fireworks factory, he and 5 civilians were killed,
and 10 others were seriously injured, when a quantity of gunpowder
exploded.
1925 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. William Sikora - Squad 2
He died after being overcome by carbon monoxide fumes while attempting
to rescue trapped workmen.
1941 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F George Michalski - Engine 3
F/F Henry Bodenlos - Engine 4
F/F Norris Coulombe - Engine 42
While fighting a 6-alarm fire in a mill and lumber company, they were
killed when they were caught under a collapsing wall.
1968 - CHICAGO, IL
Dep. Chief John V. Daugherty - Division 2
While directing operations at a 2-alarm fire in a factory, he suddenly
collapsed and died.
1976 - SISKIYOU NATIONAL FOREST, OR
F/F S.L. Finley - U.S. Forestry Service
He died while taking part in a training exercise.
1986 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Robert Liesz - Engine 124
He was killed when he fell from a 3rd floor window while working at an
alarm.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1907 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Cornelius H. Tagen - Engine 14
While responding to an alarm, he was thrown from the seat of the engine,
suffering internal injuries and fractures of both legs. He died later
that evening.
1911 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Lee Beall - Engine 22
While riding one of the company horses on an exercise run, he suffered a
fractured skull when he fell from the horse after it became frightened
by a street car and reared up. He died in a hospital a few hours later.
1916 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Richard C. Duenwald - Engine 25
While enroute to a false alarm, he died of severe injuries when Engine
25's motorized pumper collided with Engine 12's horse-drawn hose wagon.
A total of 6 other F/Fs were injured, as well as 4 civilians, who were
hurt when the wagon jumped the curb and ran through a crowd.
1919 - ALBANY, NY
Fire Patrolman George Brown
He was killed while fighting a 6-alarm hotel fire.
1936 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Maurice Moloney - Engine 30
He was killed when he fell down a pole hole in quarters while on duty.
1947 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Frederick Ziegler - Ladder 144 - 9-year veteran
F/F William D. Austin - Ladder 144 - 10-year veteran
While proceeding on a launch to the scene of a speedboat fire off-shore,
they were killed when a 35-gallon gasoline tank exploded on the speed
boat and sailed through the air, crashing through the cabin of the
launch. The lieutenant was also seriously burned.
1965 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Theodore Glinka - Engine 7
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a fire.
1969 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F John McAllister - Engine 13
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus.
1972 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. Thomas J. Carroll - Engine 32
Lt. John E. Hanbury - Ladder 13
F/F John E. Jameson - Engine 22
F/F Joseph F. Boucher Jr. - Engine 22
F/F Thomas W. Beckwith - Engine 32
F/F Paul J. Murphy - Engine 32
F/F Richard B. Magee - Engine 33
F/F Charles E. Dolan - Ladder 13
F/F Joseph P. Saniuk - Ladder 13
While overhauling, after fighting a 4-alarm fire in the 7-story Hotel
Vendome which was under renovation, they were killed, and 9 other F/Fs
were seriously injured, when the 5 upper floors collapsed burying them
under tons of rubble. It took F/Fs over 10 hours to recover their fallen
brothers.
1976 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas Lambert
He died as a result of injuries he sustained June 1st, 1974, in the
performance of his duties.
1977 - CORBETT, OR
Vol. F/F L.K. Register - Corbett Rural FPD
Vol. F/F S.L. Smith - Corbett Rural FPD
They were killed when they were struck by a car while working at the
scene of a motor vehicle accident.
Bob Salo
>1972 - BOSTON, MA
>Lt. Thomas J. Carroll - Engine 32
>Lt. John E. Hanbury - Ladder 13
>F/F John E. Jameson - Engine 22
>F/F Joseph F. Boucher Jr. - Engine 22
>F/F Thomas W. Beckwith - Engine 32
>F/F Paul J. Murphy - Engine 32
>F/F Richard B. Magee - Engine 33
>F/F Charles E. Dolan - Ladder 13
>F/F Joseph P. Saniuk - Ladder 13
>While overhauling, after fighting a 4-alarm fire in the 7-story Hotel
>Vendome which was under renovation, they were killed, and 9 other F/Fs
>were seriously injured, when the 5 upper floors collapsed burying them
>under tons of rubble. It took F/Fs over 10 hours to recover their
>fallen brothers.
It took Boston 25 years to recognize these fallen heroes. The people of
the neighborhood refused even a small plaque in the neighborhood.
However today they unveiled a new memorial honoring these brave men who
died in the line of duty. This monument has a bench so you can sit and
"experience" it's wonder. It will be on the opposite corner from where
the Vendome stood. To quote the memorial's creator "When you are there,
you will be able to memorialize these men and their sacrifice more deeply
" Eight of these brave men were married. They left 23 children.
Bob S.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1919 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Walter F. Musgrove - Truck 8 - Age 48 - 22-year veteran
While out with the engine on driver training, he was killed when he lost
his balance and fell from the back step, hitting his head on the street.
1922 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Adrian Curnan - Engine 26
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when he was caught under a
collapsing chimney while fighting an 8-alarm fire on June 15th. Another
F/F also died in the collapse.
1933 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. John W. Smith II - Ladder 115
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while working at an alarm
on May 19th.
1994 - WEST TERRE HAUTE, IN
Vol. F/F David H. Barter
He suffered a fatal heart attack after returning to quarters from a
medical call in very hot weather.
1995 - CLEVELAND, OH
Capt. Edward Carey - Age 68
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on March 28th, 1979, while
fighting an arson fire in a vacant school. While walking down the stairs
to the cellar, he fell through a rotted step and landed face-first on
the floor. The impact was sufficient enough to stop his heart, and
several minutes passed before he was found and revived by fellow F/Fs.
He lapsed into a coma and died without ever regaining consciousness.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1913 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Daniel Deveny - Hose Wagon 13 - Age 34 - 6-year veteran
He was critically injured when he was struck by a train as he walked
along the railroad tracks. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died
2 hours later.
1922 - PORTLAND, OR
F/F James S. Baldwin - Truck 1 - 4-year veteran
As he entered a smoke-filled room at a dwelling fire, he tripped over a
light cord. As he fell, the cord wrapped around his neck and sent a jolt
of 600 volts through his body, killing him instantly.
1951 - RICHMOND, VA
Capt. J.S. Gibson
He died in the performance of his duties.
1970 - FRANKLIN, PA
Vol. Lt. David Depew - Cornplanter VFD - Age 27
He was killed, and 4 other F/Fs were seriously injured, when they were
caught in an explosion of a large crude oil tank as they fought a major
oil refinery fire.
1972 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Vincent Dimino - Ladder 30
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on October 24th, 1971, when
he was thrown from the tiller seat while responding to an alarm.
1986 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Richard G. Sale - Engine 35 - 19-year veteran
While fighting a 2-alarm fire on September 5th, 1982, he suffered an
acute heart attack. He died of the effects of that attack, from which he
never fully recovered.
1992 - RAILROAD FLATS, CA
Pilot Roger Stark - California Forestry Service - Age 48
The state's chief forestry pilot was killed when his twin-engine air
tanker crashed after dropping a load of fire retardant on a brush fire.
1996 - CAMERON, NY
Vol. F/F Rex Hoad - Age 43
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in an apparatus accident
when the rig he was riding left the road while returning from a call.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1905 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Lawrence Hickey - Engine 99
He died as a result of injuries he sustained July 4th, when he fell down
a pole hole in quarters.
1912 - BUFFALO, NY
F/F Paul Siegert - Engine 22 - 11-year veteran
As he was donning his rubber coat, while responding to an alarm, he was
thrown from the back step of the hose wagon when it went into a skid
after striking the street car tracks. His head struck the pavement,
severely fracturing his skull. He died in the hospital a short time
later.
1994 - GLENWOOD, CO
F/F Tamera J. Bickett
F/F James R. Thrash
F/F Robert E. Browning Jr.
F/F Terri A. Hagen
F/F Bonnie J. Holtby
F/F Jon R. Kelso
F/F Roger W. Roth
F/F Richard K. Tyler
F/F Kathi J. Beck
F/F Scott A. Blecha
F/F Douglas M. Dunbar
F/F Robert A. Johnson
F/F Donald K. Mackey
F/F Levi J. Brinkley
The above-named forestry F/Fs were all killed while battling a major
forest fire on Storm King Mountain. They became trapped by shifting
winds and the raging fire swept over their position. Four others were
treated for burns and smoke inhalation.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Plainfolk
"Fireman's Prayer"
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1924 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Christ Christiansen - Engine 34
He died as a result of injuries he sustained when he fell down a pole
hole in quarters.
1975 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James W. Robertson - Engine 235 - 7-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a 2-alarm fire.
1982 - HAMMOND, IN
F/F John Rossi
He died in the performance of his duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1898 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Harry Courtney - Truck 3 - Age 39 - 3-year veteran
While drilling in front of quarters, he was killed instantly when he
lost his footing, after climbing to the top of the aerial ladder, and
fell to the pavement.
1909 - ALBANY, NY
F/F James P. Kelly - Engine 2
He was killed while fighting a fire.
1936 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Lt. George W. Ream - Engine 12 - Age 40 - 15-year veteran
While fighting a brush fire, he collapsed and couldn't be revived. He
was rushed to the hospital, where he died of the effects of a massive
heart attack.
1943 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Arthur Barcal - Engine 14 (Acting battalion chief)
Capt. Henry Wurthmann - Truck 9
Lt. Edward J. Moffett - Truck 3
F/F Thomas McCarthy - Engine 12
F/F Richard Jablonski - Truck 2
F/F Robert Walsh - Squad 1
F/P Harry Weinel - Fire Patrol 5
While fighting a 4-alarm fire in a 4-story commercial building, which
had burned several hours earlier in a 3-alarm fire, a loud crack was
heard and the entire roof collapsed. The top floor then collapsed,
carrying each floor down to the basement, trapping numerous F/Fs under
tons of burning rubble and debris. After 6 hours of arduous digging, the
first body was found. The 7 above-named men were killed outright in the
collapse, and an unknown number of men were seriously injured, 3 of whom
would die at later dates.
1965 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Morris E. Hunt - Truck 6 - Age 32 - 9-year veteran
While fighting a 6-alarm fire on an extremely hot day, he complained of
not feeling well after a wall collapsed, and walked through the smoke
filled rear yard to the front of the building, where he collapsed on the
fender of an apparatus. Despite all efforts to revive him, he died as a
result of an apparent massive heart attack.
1984 - COTTAGE GROVE, OR
F/F Richard A. Bowers - Age 22 - OR Division of Forestry
F/F Barbara A. Booth - Age 19 - OR Division of Forestry
While enroute to a forest fire in a 1,000-gallon forestry tanker, the
driver apparently failed to negotiate a turn onto a gravel road and the
truck overturned. It then slid into a bridge abutment, where the tank
was knocked loose from the chassis. The chassis continued to fall down a
25-foot embankment, landing right-side-up in a creek. The tank then
crashed down on top of the cab, crushing it.
1986 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas O'Donovan - Engine 107
He was killed when he fell from a snorkel as it backed into quarters.
1995 - NORTH LITTLE ROCK, AR
Lt. Randy Williford - 22-year veteran
He died of the effects of a heart attack he suffered while taking a
strenuous physical agility test on July 6th.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1878 - BUFFALO, NY
Vol. F/F Arthur A. Poole - Hose 5
While responding to an alarm, he was jolted from the hose wagon when the
wheels struck a rise in the pavement. Before he could get up, he was run
over by Truck 2, who was following close behind. He was carried to a
store, where he died 20 minutes later.
1893 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. James Garvey - Engine 1
Capt. Burton Page - Engine 3
Capt. James Fitzpatrick - Engine 63
Lt. Charles Purves - Engine 4
They were killed, and numerous other F/Fs were injured, while fighting a
5-alarm fire in a large cold storage warehouse. A total of 9 civilians
were also killed in the blaze.
1940 - WASHINGTON, DC
Capt. Raymond E. Oden - Engine 17
He suffered a fatal heart attack in the performance of his duties.
1940 - CHICAGO, IL
Fire Patrolman Henry Klenesatt
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on detail to the Fire Alarm
office.
1943 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Joseph Strenski - Truck 3
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day in a
building collapse, while fighting a 4-alarm fire. He was the 8th member
to die as a result of the collapse. Two others died at later dates.
1969 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Lloyd Miller - Truck 3
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties on July 2nd.
1977 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Martin R. Celic - Ladder 18 - Age 25 - 4-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on July 2nd, when he fell 5
floors while working at a 4-alarm arson fire. While he was working in
the building, a 2nd fire was set, cutting him off from his escape route.
He attempted to jump from a window to the bucket of a tower ladder, but
was unsuccessful.
1995 - MANHATTAN, KS
Vol. F/F Gary E. Soupene - Riley County Rural FD
While responding to a reported brush fire, he was killed as he slowed
his vehicle to pick up another F/F and was rear-ended by another F/F's
car who was going to the same fire. The force of the impact overturned
his vehicle.
1995 - GLENSIDE, PA
Vol. F/F John Schuyler - Weldon Fire Co.
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to the firehouse on
foot in answer to an alarm for a car fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1862 - BOSTON, MA
F/F George M. Abercrombie - Engine 7
He was killed when he was caught under a collapsing wall while fighting
a factory fire.
1914 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Peter Hoenig - Truck 14
He was killed when a live wire fell and struck him as he was fighting a
barn fire.
1956 - MULTNOMAH COUNTY, OR
Dist. Chief Al Troge - District 10
He suffered a fatal heart attack while fighting a brush fire.
1960 - PORTLAND, ME
F/F Thomas G. O'Conner - Ladder 3
He was killed when he was pinned between Engine 4 and Ladder 3 after
they collided while responding to an alarm. Several other F/Fs were
injured. some seriously.
1964 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Edwin C. Remhild - Ladder 128
He died while working at an alarm.
1984 - EAGLES MERE, PA
Vol. F/F David A. DeWire
He died as a result of injuries he suffered on July 8th, when he was
struck by shrapnel from a homemade cannon that exploded at a fireworks
festival.
1996 - RARITAN, NJ
Vol. F/F Bruce Lindner - Age 48
He suffered a fatal heart attack while using a Hurst tool to pop a car
door at an extrication drill.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1877 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Daniel Hartnett - Truck 4
While responding to an alarm, he was thrown from the truck and trampled
to death by the horses.
1885 - ALBANY, NY
Capt. John Luby - Engine 2
Capt. Fred Wallen - Engine 4
F/F Daniel Wheeler - Engine 4
While fighting a general-alarm fire in a piano factory, they were killed
when they were caught under a collapsing wall.
1895 - CAMBRIDGE, MA
F/F Joseph W. Hopkins - Ladder 3 - Age 30 - 4-year veteran
While tending to one of the company's horses in its stall, the horse
kicked him in the left side of his abdomen. He was rushed to a hospital,
where he later died of internal injuries.
1915 - BOSTON, MA
Dep. Chief Charles H.W. Pope - Division 2
He died of smoke inhalation while operating at a fire.
1919 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. Albert Stevenson - Fireboat 1
F/F Thomas Innes - Engine 13
F/F John J. Green - Engine 21
F/F Thomas Kelly - Engine 21
F/F Harry Legrand - Ladder 2
F/F Charles Zorr - Pipeline 3
They all died in the performance of their duties.
1939 - BLACK HILLS, SD
Vol. F/F Ervin Voegle
He died while fighting a forest fire which was caused by a lightning
strike.
1954 - ALBANY, NY
F/F John Stolz - Engine 2 or 3
He died while fighting a fire in a jewelry store.
1962 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F John C. Farragher - Rescue 1 - 9-year veteran
While fighting a 4-alarm fire in a loft building, he was killed when the
roof collapsed.
1969 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Charles Caldwell - Engine 35
He died in the performance of his duties.
1973 - RICHMOND, VA
Lt. Joseph N. Thomas Jr.
He died in the performance of his duties.
1987 - SEATTLE, WA
F/F Robert D. Earhart - Engine 10 - Age 41 - 15-year veteran
While fighting an arson fire in a vacant apartment building, he became
trapped in the building and died of smoke inhalation. He was found lying
unconscious on the top floor with his SCBA removed.
1994 - SILVER CITY, NM
Pilot Robert G. Boomer - Briles Wings
F/F Anthony S. Gutierrez - U.S. Forest Service
F/F Samuel C. Smith - U.S. Forest Service
While enroute to make an initial attack on a forest fire in the Gila
National Forest, they were killed when their helicopter crashed in a
remote area.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1943 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Matthew McDonough - Squad 1
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on July 9th, when he and
numerous other F/Fs were caught in a building collapse while fighting a
4-alarm structure fire. He was the 9th F/F to die as a result of the
collapse. The last F/F injured in the collapse died at a later date.
1978 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Gerard T. Ganley - Engine 258 - Age 46 - 18-year veteran
While detailed to Engine 297, he suffered a fatal heart attack while
operating at a fire.
1996 - HOLYOKE, MA
F/F Arthur J. Petit - Age 58 - 26-year veteran
He suffered a massive heart attack while operating at a 2-alarm fire in
an apartment house. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died a short
time later.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1909 - BIRMINGHAM, AL
F/F E.M. Philan
He was killed when he fell from an extension ladder during a drill.
1909 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Lt. Robert C. Keyser - Engine 20
He died in the performance of his duties.
1940 - BALTIMORE, MD
Lt. Herbert B. Campbell - Salvage 3
He died as a result of critical injuries he sustained in a fall on April
22nd, while fighting an 8-alarm fire in a furniture warehouse.
1963 - TACOMA, WA
Batt. Chief Arthur Strong
He was killed at a 3-alarm pier fire when he was swept over by the fire
as he tried to warn his men to evacuate the pier.
1967 - SIOUX FALLS, SD
F/F Charles E. Larson
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while fighting a major
structure fire in the downtown section of the city.
1968 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Edward G. Dennis - Engine 18
He suffered a fatal heart attack while manning the pumps at a 4-alarm
fire involving 7 tenements.
1971 - QUEENS, NY
F/F James P. Lavin - Ladder 121 - 8-year veteran
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an
alarm.
1972 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F William Tracy - Engine 59
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties on August 2nd, 1968.
1981 - CHERRY VALLEY, IL
F/F Terry K. Berg
He died in the performance of his duties.
1988 - OREGON
Pilot John Day - U.S. Forest Service
While enroute to a forest fire, he was killed when his plane crashed.
1995 - DETROIT, MI
F/F John Weingart - Engine 35
While stretching lines at a house fire, he suffered a massive heart
attack and collapsed at the scene. He was rushed to the hospital, where
he died a short time later without ever regaining consciousness.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Plainfolk
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1904 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Henry Schoenherr - Engine 74
He died of heat prostration while fighting a fire.
1917 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F William O'Brien - Engine 22
He suffered a fatal heart attack in the performance of his duties.
1939 - SPOKANE, WA
F/F Thomas E. Sparrow - Engine 16 - Age 54 - 19-year veteran
He collapsed and died while working at a house fire.
1961 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F James M. Gallagher - Truck 14 - Age 49 - 18-year veteran
While fighting a fire in a dwelling, he was found lying unconscious in a
large accumulation of water in the cellar. It was later determined that
he died of carbon monoxide poisoning.
1967 - NEWARK, NJ
Capt. Michael F. Moran - Engine 11
While climbing a ladder to check an automatic alarm during the Newark
Riots, he was shot in the back by an unknown sniper, and died enroute to
the hospital.
1976 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Budz - Engine 1
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1984 - JERICHO, NY
Vol. F/F John L. Carlson - Age 60
He died as a result of multiple cerebral contusions suffered June 26th,
when he was thrown from the back step of the pumper when it collided
with another vehicle, and then struck a pole.
1985 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Raymond Sidwell - Engine 76
He suffered a fatal heart attack while stretching a line at a 2-alarm
fire involving 3 houses.
1995 - WINDSOR LOCKS, CT
Vol. Asst. Chief Edward Pitcher Jr. - Age 39
He was electrocuted while trying to cut power to a fallen power line
after a storm.
1995 - RUTH, NV
Vol. F/F Adam Sorenson
He was killed when the ambulance he was driving suddenly swerved and
crashed.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1924 - BROOKLYN, NY
Capt. James R. Starkey - Ladder 112
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while fighting a brewery
fire.
1927 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Lt. James Duane - Engine 5
He died in the performance of his duties.
1981 - ATLANTA, GA
Prob. F/F Scott D. Duncan - Ladder 1 - Age 21 - 7-month veteran
He died as a result of the massive injuries he sustained the previous
day when he and 2 other F/Fs were forced to jump from a 3rd floor window
due to rapidly escalating fire conditions.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1899 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Berger Habel - Truck 9
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on July 1st, when he fell
from the driver's seat while responding to an alarm.
1912 - ATLANTIC CITY, NJ
Capt. Edward F. Barnett - Engine 1 - Age 48 - 25-year veteran
He was electrocuted when his lantern came in contact with bared live
wires while fighting a fire in the clock tower of City Hall.
1920 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Harry Wilson - Engine 252
He was killed while responding to an alarm.
1954 - BRONX, NY
F/F Edward J. Curtin - Engine 63 - 16-year veteran
He died in the performance of his duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1878 - BUFFALO, NY
Vol. F/F John D. Mitchell - Hose 11
While fighting a fire in a condemned hotel, he was leaving the building
to determine why his crew had lost water in their line, when a wall
collapsed without warning, killing him instantly.
1899 - MILWAUKEE, WI
F/F Edward Haley - Engine 3
While overhauling a 2-alarm fire in a hotel, the entire building
collapsed, carrying 41 men from 16 different companies down with it. All
of the men were injured, 12 seriously. F/F Haley was taking a line down
a ladder when the collapse occurred. He was instantly crushed to death
by a collapsing wall.
1922 - MANHATTAN, NY
Lt. John J. Schoppmeyer - Engine 13
On arrival, F/Fs found a fire involving some wooden crates on a loading
dock of a 6-story brick warehouse. As they applied water to the fire, a
massive and violent explosion occurred, hurling debris and F/Fs through
the air. Unknown to F/Fs, the crates contained magnesium powder. Lt.
Schoppmeyer was killed instantly when he was struck head-on by the blast
and debris. The fire went to 8 alarms and took 5 days to extinguish. In
all, 220 F/Fs were injured fighting the blaze.
1922 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James H. Malone - Engine 219
He was killed while relocating to another company who was operating at
the above 8-alarm fire. He fell from the apparatus when it skidded on a
highway and collided with another vehicle.
1925 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Charles Metzger - Engine 25
He died in the performance of his duties.
1930 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Victor Johnson - Truck 35
He was killed instantly when he fell from a pompier (scaling) ladder
while drilling at the academy.
1955 - BRONX, NY
F/F Peter J. Bradley - Ladder 53 - 28-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day, while
operating at an alarm.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1845 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. F/F Augustus J. Cowdrey - Engine 42 - Age 22
During a conflagration, which went on to destroy 300 buildings, the fire
spread to a warehouse containing a large quantity of saltpeter. After
burning awhile, a violent and massive explosion occurred, vaporizing the
building, and killing F/F Cowdrey and 29 civilians. He and many of the
civilians were blown to shreds and their bodies were never found. The
explosion was heard and felt as far away as Sandy Hook, NJ.
1895 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F John F. Ryder - Engine 18
He died in the performance of his duties.
1898 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F John L. Bradley - Engine 1
While detailed to Wagon 7, he was killed when Engine 13 and Wagon 7
collided while responding to an alarm. In addition to his death, the
horses of both companies were killed, and the steamer was demolished.
The remaining 8 F/Fs were thrown in all directions, suffering multiple
injuries.
1913 - BOSTON, MA
F/F John J. Goff - Engine 45
He died in the performance of his duties.
1915 - RICHMOND, VA
Fire Commissioner Mann
F/F T.H. Pegram
They died in the performance of their duties.
1930 - BRONX, NY
F/F Joseph Sullivan III - Engine 62
He was killed when the chief's car he was driving to an alarm, crashed
into an elevated railway pillar.
1941 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Leo J. Lindauer - Engine 7 - Age 36 - 5-year veteran
He died as a result of severe chest injuries he sustained, when Engine 7
collided with a gravel truck while responding to an alarm.
1957 - WASHINGTON, DC
Aux. F/F William H. Hoake - Engine 31
While stretching a feedline in at a fire in the Bureau of Standards
Building, he was struck by the pumper and killed.
1972 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F William Olvaney - Engine 6
He suffered a massive heart attack in quarters and was rushed to the
hospital, where he died a short time later.
1981 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Francis W. Blackstock - Truck 3
He died of the effects of an acute heart attack he had suffered while
working at a fire on July 12th.
1984 - WICHITA FALLS, TX
F/F Jeffrey A. Hardin - Age 26
While he and another F/F were advancing a line on a fire in a furniture
store, they were forced to abandon the line when conditions began to
rapidily deteriorate. One of the men made it to the street by following
the line, and he assumed F/F Hardin had already exited the building. In
reality, F/F Hardin apparently became disoriented after losing the line
and never made it out. His air supply then ran out and he died of smoke
inhalation.
1994 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Alton G. Warren - Engine 43 - Age 55 - 31-year veteran
He died due to complications as a result of a broken ankle he sustained
while working at a fire on May 30th.
1995 - FREPORT, NY
Fire Commissioner Arthur Thompson
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to a fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1908 - ATLANTA, GA
F/F Raymond M. Fisher - Engine 6 - Age 28 - 4-year veteran
While operating a line from a ladder into a 2nd floor window at a fire
in a factory, back pressure caused the hose to recoil, knocking him from
the ladder. He did a complete flip in the air and landed and his head
and back on the sidewalk. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died
as the result of a broken neck, a fractured skull, and severe internal
injuries.
1951 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Edwin Paulsen - Truck 18
While fighting a 4-alarm store fire, he was killed when he was thrown
from a roof by an explosion.
1995 - KISSIMMEE, FL
Lt. Lyle Garlinghouse
He died of the effects of the acute heart attack he suffered on July
15th while responding to an EMS call.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1875 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Francis Carlin - Ladder A
He died in the performance of his duties.
1905 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Peter Mutter - Engine 12
He died as the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound while on duty in
quarters.
1920 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. Edward Schwartzkopf - Engine 26
F/F Harry Wilfrin - Engine 43
They died in the performance of their duties.
1936 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Carroll Ritz - Truck 26 - Age 35 - 10-year veteran
While on vacation, a friend jumped into the water for a swim and began
to show signs of distress. F/F Ritz, who was fully clothed, jumped into
the water to help him. He dove under and was never seen alive again. His
body was found the next day by fireboat crews.
1956 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F George J. Murphy I - Limited Service Squad
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1987 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Donald Wilson - Engine 129
He suffered a fatal heart attack while in the quarters of another
company after fighting a fire.
1994 - MANHATTAN, NY
Lt. George W. Lener - Ladder 6 - Age 41
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while working at a 5-alarm
arson fire on June 5th. He had gotten separated from his company and was
later found lying in a pool of water, in full arrest. He was revived by
CPR, but had to be placed on life support equipment.
1995 - HONOLULU, HI
F/F Peter A. Crown - Age 39 - 4-year veteran
While searching for a missing hiker in the mountains, he and 2 police
officers were killed when the rescue helicopter he was flying crashed
into a cloud-covered cliff. The police officers were riding in a basket
that was suspended from the chopper.
1996 - PIGEON TOWNSHIP, IN
Vol. F/F Donald M. Raibley - Age 19
While responding to a call in his own vehicle, he suffered a seizure.
His car left the road and went into a lake, where he drowned.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1936 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas Fitzgerald - Engine 53
He was electrocuted while working at a fire.
1946 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Hans Jacobsen - Engine 50
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at an alarm.
1955 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Bernyl Deady - Engine 53
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a fire in the stock
yards.
1956 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. David O. Brown - Engine 41
He suffered a fatal heart attack while drilling with his company.
1971 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Edward J. Heaney - Engine 261 - 13-year veteran
He was killed while working at an alarm.
1982 - BRONX, NY
Capt. Barry N. Brown - Division 6 - 18-year veteran
He died while working at an alarm.
1985 - EVANSTON, IL
F/F Martin F. Leoni Jr. - Age 27 - 5-year veteran
He was killed as he attempted to rescue a reportedly trapped baby from a
burning house. He did not know that the child had already been removed
from the building.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1919 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Hugh Murray - Engine 46
He suffered a fatal heart attack while fighting a 5-alarm fire involving
15 buildings.
1928 - PORTLAND, OR
Lineman Harry Josephson - Fire Alarm Bureau - Age 29 - 1-year veteran
As he attempted to adjust his life belt while up a pole, he lost his
balance and fell to the pavement, suffering a severe skull fracture. He
later died at the hospital.
1928 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Batt. Chief George McConaghy - Battalion 1
He died in the performance of his duties.
1934 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Frederick V. Erb - Engine 231
While driving Battalion 44 to a false alarm, he was killed after being
ejected from the car as a result of a collision with a taxi cab. He
struck his head on the curb, suffering a massive skull fracture.
1938 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F John E. Schumacher - Engine 18
While moving a hoseline at a single-alarm house fire, he suffered a
massive heart attack. F/Fs carried him to a nearby doctor's office,
where he was pronounced dead.
1961 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Rolla L. Berg - Engine 2
He died in the performance of his duties.
1964 - SEATTLE, WA
F/F John F. Herron - Ladder 1
He died in the performance of his duties.
1984 - ROMEOVILLE, IL
F/F Kenneth E. Armour - Union Oil Co.
F/F Lothar S. Cogar - Union Oil Co.
F/F Katherine Hughes - Union Oil Co.
F/F Perry E. Parker - Union Oil Co.
F/F Robert E. Pleski - Union Oil Co.
F/F Barney O. Staggs - Union Oil Co.
F/F Charles R. Staggs - Union Oil Co.
F/F Belle C. Sullivan-Weiss - Union Oil Co.
F/F Christopher I. Watkins - Union Oil Co.
F/F Dale A. Whitmarsh - Union Oil Co.
The above-named members of the company fire brigade were killed in a
massive explosion that resulted from propane leaking into a cracking
tower. In addition, 9 other workers were killed and 2 brigade pumpers
were destroyed. The 19 victims all died of multiple trauma and burns.
1994 - CLEVELAND, OH
F/F Michael P. Shaughnessy
He was killed when he fell from the roof of a firehouse.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1912 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Frank Haering - Truck 26
He was killed while Engine 102 was making a test run of the city's first
piece of motorized fire apparatus. They struck an unoccupied street car
as it was coming out of the car barn, and he was thrown from the pumper,
dying instantly. The engine was traveling at such a high rate of speed
that the rig was firmly embedded in the rear of the car and had to be
cut out.
1913 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Long - Fireboat 58
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1917 - SEATTLE, WA
F/F Ole G. Rust - Engine 20
He died in the performance of his duties.
1953 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. James Meskill - Battalion 4
He died in the performance of his duties.
1955 - BROOKLYN, NY
Batt. Chief Edward P. Scully - Battalion 37
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties on February 16th, 1954.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1883 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Robert McDougall - Ladder 103
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on July 19th, when he was
crushed by a falling ship's mast while fighting a major waterfront store
fire.
1894 - WASHINGTON, DC
Lt. Samuel E. Mastin - Engine 1
F/F Michael R. Fenton - Engine 1
F/F Dennis O'Donnoghue - Engine 1
While working an inside line at a warehouse and stable fire, they became
trapped in the burning building when the wall of the exposure collapsed,
blocking their exits. Before brother F/Fs could rescue them, they burned
to death. In addition, 150 horses also died in the blaze.
1902 - ALBANY, NY
Fire Patrolman Donald K. Bishop
He and two other fire patrolmen were trapped when, without warning, the
fire building collapsed as they were throwing salvage covers on the 3rd
floor. When found, it was discovered that his skull had been crushed by
a falling timber.
1909 - SPOKANE, WA
Prob. F/F Henry J. Maynard - Wagon 5 - Age 28 - 3-month veteran
He was killed in a collision between Ladder 1 and Wagon 5 while enroute
to an alarm.
1965 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Thomas F. Stewart - Engine 71
He died in the performance of his duties.
1969 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Bernard P. McManus II - Battalion 51 - 30-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1995 - KUNA, ID
Vol. F/F William Buttram - Kuna Rural VFD - Age 31 - 2-year veteran
Prob. Vol. F/F Joshua Oliver - Kuna Rural VFD - Age 18
They were killed when a brush fire, fanned by 70 mph storm winds, swept
over them as they called for help from their stalled brush truck.
1995 - TUNNELTON, WV
Vol. F/F Mitch Weaver
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at the scene of a motor
vehicle accident.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1860 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. F/F Thomas Cox - Hose 50
He was killed while working at a fire.
1900 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Michael Emmett - Engine 261
He died as a result of blood poisoning he contracted in the performance
of his duties.
1923 - HOUSTON, TX
F/F Harry Dodd - Ladder 1 - Age 39 - 2-year veteran
While responding to an alarm, Ladder 1 was involved in a collision with
an automobile and a street car. He was thrown from the front seat and
killed instantly. Several other F/Fs and four civilians were injured in
the crash.
1925 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Barry - Engine 14
He died as a result of a fractured skull which occurred when he fell
from the apparatus.
1927 - WASHINGTON, DC
Lt. Samuel L. Gallahan - Engine 26
While responding to an alarm, he was crushed to death against the back
of the apparatus when Engine 26's hose wagon was struck in the rear by a
car involved in a high-speed police pursuit.
1942 - BRONX, NY
Lt. Thomas Blackburne - Ladder 27
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on June 29th, 1935, when he
fell over a fence while working at an alarm. He never fully recovered
from his injuries.
1942 - QUEENS, NY
F/F John C. Huggins - Engine 308
He died as a result of the critical burns he sustained while working at
a fire on July 22nd.
1957 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Thomas J. Walters - Battalion 37
He died in the performance of his duties.
1995 - HOWESVILLE, WV
Vol. F/F Milton Weaver - Age 30
He suffered a fatal heart attack after carrying extrication equipment
several times up and down an embankment at the scene of a motor vehicle
accident.
1996 - SLIGO, PA
Vol. F/F Kris Sherman - Age 35
While driving an apparatus to a motor vehicle accident, he was killed
when the unit overturned while going around a curve on a wet roadway.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. If you have a moment, and it so be you
Mike Weihman
: 1984 - ROMEOVILLE, IL
: F/F Kenneth E. Armour - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Lothar S. Cogar - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Katherine Hughes - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Perry E. Parker - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Robert E. Pleski - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Barney O. Staggs - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Charles R. Staggs - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Belle C. Sullivan-Weiss - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Christopher I. Watkins - Union Oil Co.
: F/F Dale A. Whitmarsh - Union Oil Co.
: The above-named members of the company fire brigade were killed in a
: massive explosion that resulted from propane leaking into a cracking
: tower. In addition, 9 other workers were killed and 2 brigade pumpers
: were destroyed. The 19 victims all died of multiple trauma and burns.
Does anybody have more information about this tragedy? I had not
heard of it before.
--
-mike
_________________________________________________________________________
Mike Weihman mi...@sr.hp.com N1DJE
Hewlett-Packard Co. | H-P Chemical/Medical Response Teams
Microwave Instruments Division |
1212 Valley House Drive | Firefighter/EMT-D
Rohnert Park, CA 94928 USA | Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District
(707) 794-4454 | Penngrove, California
PGP key available: send email with "PGP key" as the subject.
Opinions are my own and do not represent H-P or RAFPD.
_________________________________________________________________________
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1910 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Stewart K. Rosenberger - Engine 10
He was killed when he fell from a ladder while working at a fire.
1928 - BUFFALO, NY
Marine Engineer Thomas J. Lynch - Fireboat 1
He was killed and 4 other F/Fs were severely burned when a massive
explosion ripped through the boiler room of the Fireboat Grattan. The
boat had become surrounded by burning oil while fighting a major fire
which resulted from the collision between an oil barge and a tanker.
1932 - BRONX, NY
F/F Thaddius Connolly - Ladder 32
He died as a result of injuries he sustained while responding to an
alarm on May 18th. Another F/F died that day making the same response.
1954 - BRONX, NY
Batt. Chief Edward C. Huber - Battalion 20 - 27-year veteran
He died in the performance of his duties.
1993 - SENECA, IL
Asst. Chief Delmar Mondy
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to an alarm.
1994 - WENATCHEE, WA
F/F Paul T. Hodges
He suffered a fatal heart attack while driving a tanker to a fire.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. If you have a moment, and it so be your
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1899 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Charles W. Kinsey - Truck 4
He died as a result of injuries he sustained the previous day, when he
was thrown from the tiller seat after the truck was struck by a trolley
car while returning to quarters from an alarm. Several other F/Fs were
injured.
1937 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Edward R. Lynn - Engine 18
He died in the performance of his duties while operating at a fire.
1943 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Everett L. Owens - Truck 1
He was killed in a collision between Truck 1 and a tractor-trailer truck
while responding to an alarm.
1954 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Joseph D. DeLong - Ladder 107
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Plainfolk
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1856 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Charles T. Warren - Ladder 3
While fighting a 2-alarm fire in a large block of buildings, he was
killed when he was caught under a collapsing chimney.
1960 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Dennis McQueenie - Ladder 126 - 10-year veteran
He died while working at a single-alarm fire.
1962 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Mario Lazzarotto - Engine 14
He suffered a fatal heart attack in the locker room of the firehouse
after returning to quarters from a fire.
1984 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Melvin S. Rosewag Jr. - Engine 19 - Age 48
He died as a result of the head injuries he sustained on July 25th, when
he fell from a jump seat while putting on his SCBA. He fell on his back
with the mask on, striking his head on the pavement, and lapsed into a
coma.
1992 - OAK PARK, IL
Lt. Patrick Luby - Age 43 - 15-year veteran
He died of smoke inhalation after evacuating his crew from a cellar fire
in a single-family house. A piece of his clothing apparently snagged on
some debris, preventing his escape. He was found lying at the bottom of
the stairs in full arrest.
1994 - MISSOULA, MT
Pilot Robert E. Kelly - Neptune Inc.
Pilot Randy C. Lynn - U.S. Forest Service
They were killed when their airtanker crashed after making a retardant
drop on a 150,000-acre forest fire on Henry Peak.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1919 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Joseph McDonough - Engine 18
He died after being overcome by ammonia fumes while working at a fire.
1927 - ATLANTA, GA
Capt. A. Clyde Cawthorn - Engine 5 - Age 54 - 16-year veteran
F/F James B. Richardson - Engine 4 - 2-year veteran
While fighting a major fire in a grain warehouse, they were both killed,
and 6 other F/Fs were seriously injured, when a wall collapsed as they
were advancing a line up a ladder.
1935 - SAUGUS, MA
Chief Mellen R. Joy
He was killed in an acetylene explosion while working at a fire.
1939 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Samuel T. Waters - Engine 15
He died of the effects of an acute heart attack that he suffered while
on duty in quarters on July 18th.
1940 - MANHATTAN, NY
Dep. Chief James Tubridy - Division 2
He died as a result of injuries he sustained April 20th, when he fell
from a fire escape while working at a fire.
1972 - NEWARK, NJ
Capt. Daniel J. McCoy - Fireboat 1
He suffered a fatal heart attack while out drilling on the fireboat.
1995 - ABERDEEN, MS
Vol. Chief William D. Luker - Cedar Creek VFD
While driving a tanker to a barn fire, he was killed when he was ejected
from the truck as it overturned.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1874 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F John O'Neill - Ladder 4
He was killed when he was run over by the truck while responding to an
alarm.
1893 - BOSTON, MA
F/F James M. Powers - Ladder 4
He was killed when he was crushed between the truck and a utility pole
while responding to an alarm.
1903 - BOSTON, MA
Capt. John F. O'Connell - Engine 16
He suffered a fatal heart attack after overexerting himself at a fire.
1907 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F George E. Gill - Truck 4 - Age 48 - 17-year veteran
While overhauling a 3-alarm fire in a straw mat factory, several F/Fs
were caught in the collapse of the 4th floor down into the 3rd. All of
the men were removed alive, except for F/F Gill, whose crushed body was
the last to be found.
1949 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Peter E. Farley - Ladder 136 - 12-year veteran
He died as a result of the massive head injuries and multiple fractures
he suffered when he fell down a pole hole in quarters.
1954 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Morris E. Princell - Engine 23 - Age 41 - 15-year veteran
He died as a result of head injuries sustained on August 10th, when he
fell from the apparatus while responding to a car fire.
1970 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Walsh Jr. - Truck 44
He died as a result of injuries he sustained on July 6th, when he was
caught under a collapsing wall while fighting a 6-alarm fire in a
7-story structure. Snorkel 7 was also destroyed in the collapse.
1982 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Stanley Brown - Engine 9
He died as a result of gunshot wounds he sustained while on duty in
quarters on August 14th. Another F/F was also shot and killed that day.
1995 - WARRENTON, VA
Vol. F/F Christopher M. Garneau - Age 17
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to an alarm.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1919 - PORTLAND, OR
F/F Francis H. McCormick - Truck 1 - Age 42 - 9-year veteran
While fighting a spectacular fire in a box factory, he was struck by a
hose stream and knocked from a railroad trestle to the tracks 30 feet
below. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died of a skull fracture
and internal injuries.
1949 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Edward G. Williams - Truck 12
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1975 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Donald Moore - Truck 58
While fighting a 3-alarm fire in a car dealership, he was killed when he
was caught under a collapsing wall.
1990 - UMPQUA, OR
F/F J.C. Starr - U.S. Forest Service
While fighting a forest fire, he suffered a fatal stroke while on duty
in a fire base camp.
1993 - ALBANY, NY
Batt. Chief Howard R. Schmitt Jr. - Age 55 - 34-year veteran
He died of the effects of an acute heart attack suffered while working
at a 2-alarm fire on January 29th. His father, also an Albany F/F, died
in the line of duty in 1938, due to a massive heart attack he suffered
while working at a structure fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1878 - CHICAGO, IL
Fire Patrolman Edward Ferris - Fire Patrol 1
He was killed when he fell from the roof of the firehouse.
1920 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Denis Donovan - Engine 20
He died of smoke inhalation while fighting a 4-alarm fire which swept
through the lower floors of a 5-story garment factory. A total of 25
F/Fs were overcome by smoke while battling the blaze, several of whom
had to be rescued.
1931 - CAMBRIDGE, MA
Lt. William J. Atkinson - Engine 4 - Age 54 - 31-year veteran
While attempting to rescue a civilian trapped in a manhole, he was
overcome by benzol gas fumes, and died.
1940 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. James Mulcahy - Engine 43
Lt. William Schmidt - Engine 114
F/F Raymond Carroll - Engine 43
F/F Alfred Schilling - Truck 13
After bringing a 4-alarm chemical plant fire under control, F/Fs were
picking up equipment in a narrow alleyway when 2 explosions suddenly
occurred. The above-named men were all killed instantly, and 16 others
were injured, one critically. The critically injured man died 3 days
later.
1963 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Lt. Roy Pope Jr. - Engine 1 - Age 38 - 17-year veteran
While searching for the seat of an extremely smoky fire in a commercial
building, he became separated from his company in dense smoke. A search
was started when he did not exit the building with his crew, and he was
found unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died an hour
later as a result of smoke inhalation.
1966 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F John J. O'Keefe - Engine 16 - 13-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in a training accident at
the fire academy.
1971 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. Daniel T. McInness - Engine 8
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at an alarm in the Boston
Navy Yard.
1975 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Robert J. Fisher - Engine 33
F/F John Andrews - Engine 49
F/F Hugh McIntyre - Engine 56
F/F Ralph Campana - Ladder 19
F/F Roger T. Parker - Ladder 27
F/F Joseph R. Wiley - Ladder 27
The above-named men were killed, and a dozen others were injured, when
they were caught in the flashover of accumulated flammable product while
fighting a spectacular 11-alarm fire in the Gulf Oil Refinery. Three of
the men were killed outright in the initial flashover and 3 others died
as they went to the aid of their brothers. Two others, who also went to
render assistance, were critically burned, and died at later dates.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1891 - MANHATTAN, NY
Lt. James H. Shute - Engine 27
He died of smoke inhalation while fighting a fire.
1914 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. William Shannon - Engine 119
He was killed when he touched a live wire while going to quarters during
an electrical storm.
1936 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Fred Witarowsky - Engine 109
He was killed in a collision with a street car while responding to an
alarm.
1949 - MANHATTAN, NY
Batt. Chief Gunther E. Beake - Battalion 3
He died as a result of the poisonous fumes he inhaled while fighting a
2-alarm fire in the Holland Tunnel on May 13th.
1963 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas McKnight - Fireboat 37
He drowned while the fireboat was putting on a display of colored water.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1867 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Miles L. Swoarby - Ladder 10
He was killed when he fell 65 feet to the ground from a roof, while
working at a fire.
1898 - LAUREL, MD
Prob. F/F Charles L. Franke - Baltimore City Engine 10 - Age 29 - 44-day
veteran
While pulling the heavy steamer on a mutual aid call for a fire in
Laurel, he tripped and fell under the wheels which passed over his head,
killing him instantly.
1916 - MILWAUKEE, WI
Capt. Arndt Nessheim - Engine 8
Lt. Dennis Moroney - Engine 30
They died of smoke inhalation while fighting a fire in a piano factory.
1925 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F James L. Mann - Engine 21
He was killed in a collision between the engine and street car while
responding to an alarm.
1943 - BALTIMORE, MD
Dep. Chief Harry B. Scheve - Division 5 - Age 45 - 24-year veteran
While responding to his command post during an air raid blackout, he
slumped dead in his seat due to a massive heart attack.
1956 - PORTLAND, ME
Capt. John Tolan - Engine 6
While working at a stubborn dwelling fire, he stated that he needed air,
and stepped outside. As he stepped outside the house, he collapsed and
died.
1965 - BRONX, NY
F/F Edward F. Snediker - Engine 48 - 12-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at an alarm.
1968 - CAMBRIDGE, MA
F/F Charles A. Jones - Ladder 1 - Age 41 - 11-year veteran
He was killed in a collision between Ladder 1 and a tractor-trailer
while responding to an alarm.
1973 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John McKevitt - Engine 7
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1994 - HUDSON FALLS, NY
Vol. F/F Paul A. MacMurray - Age 30 - 6-year veteran
After rescuing several occupants from a hotel fire, he went back to the
2nd floor to search for more people. Conditions rapidly deteriorated,
causing him to become separated from his partner. F/Fs were forced to
abandon rescue operations when a major interior collapse occurred. His
body was recovered the next day.
1994 - WINDHAM, NY
Vol. Asst. Chief Gerald E. Murray - Windham Hose Co. #1
He was killed in a crash involving his personal vehicle while responding
to a fire.
1995 - MEBANE, NC
Vol. F/F James G. Hinson
While attempting to rescue a man from his car on a flooded highway, he
was swept under by a sudden surge of water. His rescue rope became
entangled in a utility pole guide wire and he drowned.
1996 - HARAHAN, LA
Lt. Lawrence Roche - Age 46 - 30-year veteran
As he was pulling a hoseline from the bed of the pumper at a structural
fire, he suddenly collapsed to the street in full arrest. Immediate CPR
was administered and he was rushed to the hospital, where he was
pronounced dead.
1996 - SOUTH PORTLAND, ME
Vol. Capt. Robert E. Wallingford - Engine 1 - Age 47 - 30-year veteran
While battling a 4-alarm fire in a welding plant, he suddenly collapsed
to the street following a large explosion. His 3 children, who were also
battling the blaze, ran to his aid and started CPR, managing to restore
a faint heartbeat. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died a short
time later as a result of the massive heart attack he had suffered. He
was the first member of the department to give his life in the line of
duty.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1893 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Benjamin F. Plummer - Truck 1 - Age 36 - 4-year veteran
While enroute to an alarm, Truck 1 struck a pole as it turned a corner,
throwing F/F Plummer from the driver's seat. He suffered massive head
injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he died a short time
later. F/F Ryan was also killed in the accident.
1905 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. William Mayer - Engine 79
He died as a result of asphyxiation while working at a fire.
1914 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas Carney - Truck 4
He died as a result of injuries sustained in an explosion while working
at a fire in an apartment house on August 23rd.
1958 - MULTNOMAH COUNTY, OR
Batt. Chief Glen Farrington - District 14
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a barn fire.
1967 - HAMMOND, IN
F/F Michael Pellar
He was killed in the performance of his duties.
1967 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James C. Kearney - Ladder 114 - 16-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained on August 25th, when he hit
his head on the door of the apparatus while working on the truck in
quarters.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following member of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1927 - BRONX, NY
F/F William Carlock - Engine 62
He was electrocuted when he was struck by a falling high-voltage power
line.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget this brave soul who unselfishly gave his life in the
performance of his duties. Let us all take a moment out of our busy day
to say a prayer for this fallen soldier of the Lord, and ask that He
grant him eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1885 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F John Ennis - Engine 8
He was killed when he was caught under a collapsing wall while fighting
a fire.
1931 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Anthony Kennedy - Engine 17
He died as a result of a fractured skull he sustained when he fell down
a pole hole in quarters on August 19th.
1975 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Carroll Brenek - Engine 57
He died as a result of the critical burns he sustained when he was
caught in a flashover while fighting an 11-alarm fire in the Gulf Oil
Co. refinery on August 17th. He was the 8th and last F/F to die as a
result of the blaze.
1976 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. Joseph Sparacino Jr. - Engine 291 - 10-year veteran
He was killed while fighting a 4-alarm fire, when the 1st floor of the
fire building collapsed, burying him under tons of rubble in the
basement.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His kingdom.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1883 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Charles Albert - Truck 5
He died as a result of injuries sustained August 28th, when he fell from
a ladder while working at a fire.
1914 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Lt. George St. Ledger - Engine 25
He died in the performance of his duties.
1971 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. C.S. Pietrak - Engine 35
He died of smoke inhalation while fighting a fire in the basement of an
apartment house.
1976 - GADSDEN, AL
Chief Ralph Speer
F/F Michael Thornton
F/F Michael Patrick
While fighting a fire involving a bulk gasoline storage facility, they
were killed instantly when a 6,000-gallon tank BLEVE'd, incinerating
them in a ground level fireball that was 150 feet in diameter. At least
30 other F/Fs were injured in the blast, and a pumper was destroyed.
1992 - PRYOR, OR
F/F J.S. Campbell - Oregon Division of Forestry
He was killed when he was struck by a falling tree while fighting a
forest fire.
1995 - BRUSH, CO
Vol. F/F Martin G. Kautz - Age 35
He was killed when the private van that he and 3 other F/Fs were in, and
an EMT's private 4WD vehicle collided while both were enroute to the
firehouse to answer a call for a child choking.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1889 - KANSAS CITY, MO
F/F Barney McBreen - Truck 1 - Age 27
He was killed when he fell 8 stories while drilling with a pompier
(scaling) ladder. He was the 1st member of the department to die in the
performance of his duties.
1894 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Maloney - Engine 28
While fighting a 2-alarm lumber yard fire along the Chicago River, he
drowned when he fell into the river from a bridge.
1938 - MANHATTAN, NY
Lt. Christopher J. Plunkett - Engine 8
He died as a result of injuries sustained on August 31st, when he fell
down an elevator shaft while working at a single-alarm fire.
1941 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Mehigan - Truck 15
He was killed while responding to an alarm.
1956 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Thomas F. Maher - Battalion 52
He died as a result of injuries he sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1965 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Edmund Gillmeister - Engine 55
He suffered a fatal heart attack while fighting a 5-alarm lumber yard
fire.
1967 - UNION, NJ
Capt. Dominick Ritorto
He died while fighting a fire in a welding shop.
1994 - CHILLICOTHE, OH
Capt. Earl G. Detty Jr. - Union Twp. F.D.
He suffered a fatal heart attack while walking back to the apparatus
after investigating a reported fire in the woods.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His kingdom.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1915 - PORTLAND, ME
F/F Smith - Ladder 4
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an
alarm.
1930 - BALTIMORE, MD
Capt. John D. Meakin - Engine 44 - Age 50 - 28-year veteran
He apparently suffered a fatal heart attack in his sleep and was found
dead in the bunkroom of the firehouse.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1935 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Michael F. Logan - Engine 321
He died of exhaustion while working at an alarm.
1953 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Herman Leyh - Engine 22
While manning the pumps at a 6-alarm lumber yard fire, he suffered a
serious heart attack and was rushed to the hospital, where he died a
short time later.
1985 - BOSTON, MA
F/F James D. Ealey - Engine 3
He died in the performance of his duties.
1994 - HIGHVIEW, KY
Sgt. Craig E. Drury - Engine 1136 - Age 24
He died as a result of severe inhalation and body burns sustained while
fighting an arson fire in a dwelling. His funeral was held in the church
he was to be married in, on the same day.
1996 - BAHAMA, NC
Vol. F/F Richard C. Dorsey - Age 19 - 2-year veteran
While responding to a call to help extricate an engine company from
under a fallen tree during Hurricane Fran, he was killed when a tree
collapsed on the cab of the truck, crushing him to death.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1894 - MILWAUKEE, WI
F/F Adolph Meyer - Engine 2
He was killed by the explosion of a chemical fire extinguisher while
working at a fire.
1896 - BENTON HARBOR, MI
While fighting a major fire in an opera house, a wall collapse occurred,
burying 15 F/Fs from the Benton Harbor and St. Joseph Fire Departments.
Due to the heavy fire conditions, and the fear of sebsequent collapses,
rescue efforts were delayed. When F/Fs were finally able to reach their
trapped comrades, they found 6 Benton Harbor and 5 St. Joseph F/Fs dead,
and the remaining 4 men seriously injured.
1939 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Carl Schichi - Truck 19
He was electrocuted while working at a fire.
1959 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Pfeiffer - Water Tower 3
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1973 - MANHATTAN, NY
Lt. Frank J. Brennan - Engine 3 - 19-year veteran
He died in the performance of his duties.
1993 - FOREST GROVE, OR
F/F B.L. Hill - Oregon Dept. of Forestry
He was killed in a motor vehicle accident while making a routine forest
patrol.
1994 - MEMPHIS, TN
Prob. F/F Dwight E. Smith - 3-week veteran
While jogging in a physical fitness exercise at the training academy, he
collapsed in full arrest and died as a result of a massive heart attack.
1995 - GLENSHAW, PA
Vol. F/F George Peters - Elfinwild V.F.D.
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a multiple-alarm
fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1907 - ATLANTA, GA
F/F Clifford A. Smith - Engine 7 - 6-year veteran
He died as a result of the back and internal injuries sustained on June
21st, when he and several other F/Fs were caught in the collapse of a
porch at a dwelling fire. Amother F/F died at a later date as a result
of the collapse.
1915 - BRONX, NY
F/F John Duffy III - Engine 83
He died as a result of the severe skull fracture sustained the previous
day, as he attempted to rescue a child who was trapped in a hole.
1927 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Robert O'Donnell - Truck 20
He was killed while responding to an alarm, when Truck 20 collided with
a dairy truck.
1930 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Ernie Schabes - Squad 2
He was killed when he fell from a ladder while operating at a fire, and
broke his neck.
1939 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F James P. Lawson - Engine 19
He died in the performance of his duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of busy
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1855 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. F/F Charles B. Elliott - Engine 6
He was killed when he fell under the wheels of the engine while enroute
to an alarm, and was run over.
1872 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Jacob Steiger - Engine 23
He died as a result of critical burns sustained on September 6th, when
he came in contact with flaming kerosene oil.
1906 - BIRMINGHAM, AL
F/F J.S. Melton
He was killed when he was run over by the steamer.
1928 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Mark Cronin - Squad 5
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an
alarm.
1953 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Julius Feldman - Ladder 43 - 4-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained on August 31st, when he was
blown out of a 6th floor window while working at a single-alarm fire.
1995 - BRONX, NY
Vol. F/F John F. Pache Sr. - Aviation V.F.D.
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to a structure fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1900 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Lt. James Sowney - Engine 48
He died in the performance of his duties.
1935 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Pemberton Warmsley - Truck 15 - Age 65 - 28-year veteran
While pulling a hose at a church fire, he suddenly collapsed. He was
rushed to the hospital, where he died as the result of a peritonitis
hernia.
1941 - STATEN ISLAND, NY
F/F Robert Mahl - Engine 161
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at an alarm.
1968 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Harry L. Miniter - Limited Service Squad - 21-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1969 - QUEENS, NY
F/F John F.M. Whelan - Ladder 162 - 32-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1970 - CHICAGO, IL
Batt. Chief Leonard Shankman - Battalion 26
He suffered a ruptured aneurysm in quarters while on duty, and died as a
result.
1989 - SEATTLE, WA
Lt. Matthew W. Johnson - Engine 20 - Age 32 - 9-year veteran
While operating an initial attack line at a fire in a lumber warehouse,
he and a F/F became overcome by heat and smoke when conditions quickly
deteriorated and the building became rapidly involved in fire. The F/F
staggered out of the building and collapsed before he could tell anyone
that Johnson was still inside. His body was found over 3 hours later,
buried under 2 feet of charred rubble.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
At this time, there are no entries in the LODRS databases for any
members of the fire service dying in the line of duty on this date.
Let us take this opportunity to remember all of the brothers and sisters
that have made "The Supreme Sacrifice" through the decades. Let's take a
moment to say a prayer for all those soldiers of the Lord that have
fallen in the performance of their duties. Ask that He grant them
eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom. Also say a prayer for those who
are currently on the mend from injuries suffered in the line of duty,
and ask that they are helped to make a full and swift recovery.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1875 - MANHATTAN, NY
Batt. Chief William H. Nash - Battalion 4 - Age 43
F/F William Hughes - Engine 9
F/F Philip J. Maus - Ladder 6
While demonstrating the new Scott-Uda aerial ladder, they were killed,
and 4 other F/Fs were injured, when the ladder snapped, pitching them to
the cobblestones below.
1900 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Edward Knouff - Ladder B
He died in the performance of his duties.
1907 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James Smith - Ladder 104
He died as a result of burns he sustained in quarters on September 4th.
1951 - BROCKTON, MA
F/F Francis F. Nash
He died in the performance of his duties.
1953 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Daniel A. Weisse - Water Tower 1 - 18-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained while working at a 3-alarm
fire on April 13th.
1969 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Lawrence Kelly - Division 3 Aide
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a fire.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Stay safe, all,
Chief Hank
LODRS
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1884 - BROOKLYN, NY
Capt. Charles Keegan - Ladder 104
He was killed while fighting a fire in an oil refinery.
1900 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Patrick Moroney - Engine 66
He died as a result of injuries sustained in quarters, when he fell onto
the wheel of the hose wagon while on duty.
1968 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Thomas Moffat - Fire Headquarters
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty in headquarters.
1979 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Joseph F. Zino - Ladder 122 - 19-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters after returning from a
fire.
1994 - BOISE, ID
F/F Robert L. Johnson - Idaho Bureau of Land
He was killed when his truck was struck by another vehicle as he was
driving supplies to a fire base camp.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1903 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F William P. Boland - Engine 11
He died as a result of injuries sustained the previous day, when he was
pinned under the hose wagon after it overturned while responding to a
fatal dwelling fire. Several other F/Fs injured in the accident also
suffered acid burns when the contents of the wagon's chemical tank
spilled out onto them as they lay injured in the street.
1930 - BOSTON, MA
F/F George J. Corcoran - Engine 13
While standing in a pool of water at a 2-alarm fire, he was electrocuted
after being struck by falling high-voltage power lines.
1972 - NEWARK, NJ
Capt. Emilio Pinal - Community Relations
While attempting to rescue the occupants at a 3-alarm apartment building
fire, he fell down a flight of stairs. He was treated at the scene and
sent home, where he suffered an acute heart attack. He was rushed to the
hospital, where he died a short time later.
1995 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Eric D. Schaefer - Rescue 1 - Age 25 - 18-month veteran
He was killed, and 18 F/Fs were injured, when they were caught under a
collapsing granite wall while fighting a 9-alarm fire in a former
foundry complex.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1853 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Ezra J. Wiley - Engine 11
He was killed when he was run over by the apparatus while responding to
a dwelling fire.
1916 - RICHMOND, VA
F/F M.B. Nash
He died in the performance of his duties.
1939 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Frank B. Schultz - Engine 9
He died in the performance of his duties.
1941 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Bertram Butler - Ladder 137
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating the aerial ladder at a
drill in front of the firehouse.
1960 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Robert E. Severn - Engine 12
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty.
1969 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Joseph Papp - Engine 85
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1979 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Lt. Michael J. Kriech - Squad 29 - Age 32 - 9-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained on September 10th, when the
apparatus was struck by a train while they were responding to a motor
vehicle accident.
1995 - HARRIMAN, TN
F/F Gene Schubert
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at the scene of a fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1910 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Frank DeHaven - Engine 47
He died in the performance of his duties.
1919 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F Daniel Rogers - Engine 9 - Age 74 - 48-year veteran
As he jumped from the rear step of the Christie/American LaFrance
steamer to chock the large rear wheels, the motor stalled and the rig
rolled backwards over him, crushing him to death. He spent his entire
career in Engine 9 since the day they went in service. The alarm they
were at proved to be false.
1921 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F William Selluiger - Ladder 102
He died as a result of injuries sustained in quarters on September 16th.
1926 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. Joseph C. Jones - Engine 50
F/F John J. Dykes - Engine 50
They both died in the performance of their duties.
1960 - ATLANTA, GA
Chief Luther W. Guthrie - Age 47 - 22-year veteran
We was critically injured in a wall collapse at a railroad warehouse
fire on February 9th, 1953, and never fully recovered from injuries
sustained. He suffered recurring medical problems and died as a result
of the injuries. An assistant chief was killed instantly in the
collapse.
1984 - SHREVEPORT, LA
F/F Percy R. Johnson - Haz-Mat Unit - Age 31
He died as a result of critical burns sustained the previous day, when
an explosion occurred as he and another F/F were attempting to stop an
anhydrous ammonia leak in a cold-storage warehouse.
1985 - SANDY SPRINGS, GA
F/F Michael Gurley - Fulton County F.D. - Age 35 - 10-year veteran
During a familiarization diving drill at a dam, his legs became pinned
by strong suction in a large pipe at the bottom of the dam. Despite all
efforts to free him from the pipe, 30 feet below the surface, he lost
consciousness and died after an hour. His death was attributed to
stress, extreme pain, and hyperventilation.
1996 - SPRINGDALE, OH
F/F Henry L. Scott Jr. - Engine 90 - Age 36 - 5-year veteran
While working as a safety officer at a training fire in the drill tower,
he suddenly collapsed and went into full arrest. Immediate ALS was begun
and he was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1896 - BOSTON, MA
Capt. William G. Blanchard - Engine 20
He was killed when he was caught under a collapsing wall while fighting
a fire.
1960 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F David J. Murphy - Ladder 24
He died in the performance of his duties.
1969 - BRONX, NY
F/F Michael T. Carr - Engine 85 - 6-year veteran
While responding to an alarm, he suffered severe head injuries when he
fell from the apparatus after being struck by a brick thrown by a 13
year old boy. He was rushed to the hospital, where he died a short time
later.
1975 - WORCESTER, MA
F/F Raymond C. Gleason
He died in the performance of his duties.
1995 - NAPA, CA
Capt. Ray Lencioni - Colma F.P.D.
He suffered a fatal heart attack while working at a medical call in a
nursing home.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1931 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Michael Fagan - Water Tower 1
He suffered a fatal heart attack while backing the apparatus into
quarters after a response.
1943 - DENVER, CO
F/F John Kennedy - Engine 8 - Age 34
F/F James Williams - Chief's Aide - Age 37
F/F Douglas V. Parrish - Dept. Mechanic - Age 49
While operating on mutual aid at a fire in a 1,600-foot railroad tunnel,
F/Fs Kennedy and Williams became trapped when a flashover occurred and
the tunnel collapsed on top of them. F/F Parrish then grabbed a mask and
ran into the tunnel. After not coming back out, a search was started and
his body was found about 100 feet into the tunnel. Efforts to revive him
failed and he was pronounced dead of carbon monoxide poisoning. The
tunnel became fully involved in fire and burned for close to 2 days. The
bodies of F/Fs Kennedy and Williams were never found, and it was assumed
that they had been cremated under the fallen burning timbers.
1952 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Allen Lewis - Engine 31
He suffered an acute heart attack in quarters after returning from a
response, and was rushed to the hospital, where he died a short time
later.
1996 - BIRMINGHAM, AL
F/F William R. Reid - Age 42 - 18-year veteran
He suffered an apparent fatal heart attack while taking a departmental
physical performance evaluation.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1894 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Michael J. Lamb - Engine 42
He died in the performance of his duties.
1914 - SPOKANE, WA
F/F E.G. Deardorf - Ladder 9 - Age 32 - 1-year veteran
He was killed when he fell from a pompier (scaling) ladder.
1978 - SPRINGFIELD, OR
Capt. H.F. Rech
He died of smoke and carbon monoxide poisoning after becoming confused
and disoriented as his company was evacuating from the 2nd floor of a
burning supermarket. He complained of being dizzy while changing to his
third air cylinder, but refused to stay outside. He was found with his
mask still on and his coat pulled over his head.
1996 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Martin Doherty Jr. - Truck 45 - Age 63
Fellow F/Fs found him lying unconscious and in full arrest in quarters
while on duty. CPR was administered immediately and he was rushed to the
hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1902 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Daniel L. Shea - District 5 Aide
While fighting a 2-alarm fire in a 6-story warehouse, he was killed when
he fell from the roof.
1904 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Robert Freeman - Engine 44
He was killed when he fell down a pole hole in quarters.
1924 - SEATTLE, WA
F/F William E. Shuberg - Engine 2
He died in the performance of his duties.
1953 - MANHATTAN, NY
Marine Engineer John D. McKean - Fireboat 85 - 15-year veteran
He died as a result of severe scalding burns sustained September 17th,
when the fireboat's boiler exploded during a water demonstration.
1968 - LAVALATTE, NJ
Lineman John DiNicholas - Newark F.D.
While attempting to rescue a boy who was trapped in the undertow at the
Jersey shore, he also became trapped, prompting several passers-by to
come to their aid. While they were able to save the boy, the couldn't
get to L/M DiNicholas, whose body was found washed up on the beach
several hours later.
1975 - WAYLAND, MA
F/F Arthur E. Flieger
He died in the performance of his duties.
1978 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F George Molnor - Engine 34
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty.
1981 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Craig L. McShane - Engine 42 - Age 26
F/F Joseph Hitz - Truck 1 - Age 54
While operating at a 2-alarm fire in a high-rise office building, they
were killed when they fell down an open elevator shaft.
1985 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Bernard Rogers - Engine 120
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1994 - LIVINGSTON, TX
Vol. Capt. James L. Certain - Scenic Loop V.F.D.
He was killed when the water tanker he was driving to a dwelling fire
overturned.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1896 - SAVANNAH, GA
F/F Frank McStay
He fell 40 feet to his death through an open grating while fighting an
arson fire in a wholesale grocery warehouse.
1950 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. Roy E. Burrill - Ladder 14
F/F William R. Benson - Ladder 14
They both died as a result of smoke and gas inhalation while fighting a
cellar fire.
1960 - BRONX, NY
Lt. Thomas E. Fitzgerald - Engine 45
He died in the performance of his duties.
1994 - MCCALL, ID
F/F John C. King - U.S. Army Reserve
He was killed when the helicopter he was in crashed while attempting to
pick up F/Fs at a forest fire. He was struck by the chopper's main rotor
blade in the crash, and suffered severe trauma.
1995 - BULLVILLE, NY
Vol. Asst. Chief Frederick T. Fairweather
He suffered a fatal heart attack while marching with the department in
the annual town parade.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1901 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Charles Corey - Engine 29
He was killed when he was caught under a collapsing wall while fighting
a 3-alarm factory fire.
1911 - MANHATTAN, NY
Batt. Chief William Devlin - Battalion 4
He died as a result of the critical back and internal injuries sustained
September 20th, when he fell from a roof at a smoky loft building fire.
1922 - BRONX, NY
F/F Louis J. Farrell - Ladder 33
He died as a result of critical injuries sustained while responding to
an alarm the previous day.
1929 - ATLANTA, GA
Lt. Harrison Finch - Engine 4 - 15-year veteran
While fighting a major fire in a clothing factory, he became overcome by
the dense smoke and collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital in the
chief's car, but died before any treatment could be rendered.
1937 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Peter J. Harmon - Engine 61
He was killed when he fell down a pole hole in quarters.
1949 - MARTIN, SD
Vol. F/F William E. Burd
He was burned to death while fighting a prairie fire.
1951 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James Roche - Ladder 118 - 12-year veteran
He died as a result of massive internal injuries and multiple fractures
sustained while operating at a single-alarm fire.
BJL...@aol.com
In a message dated 97-09-20 18:00:59 EDT, you write:
<< 1894 - BOSTON, MA
F/F Michael J. Lamb - Engine 42
He died in the performance of his duties. >>
May he Rest in Peace.
No relation...but gives one pause to think.
Bill Lamb
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1832 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. F/F Nathaniel Brown - Engine 42
Vol. F/F James Hedges - Engine 42
They were killed while operating at a fire.
1852 - MANHATTAN, NY
Vol. F/F Arthur J. Evans
He was killed while fighting a fire in a chocolate factory.
1907 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Edward D. Lahey - Engine 240
He died as a result of the severe skull fracture he sustained September
20th, when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an alarm.
1919 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Thomas Tuite - Engine 48
He was killed in a collision while responding to an alarm.
1956 - ROCKLAND, MA
F/F William N. Mullen
He died in the performance of his duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1927 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F George E. Walker - Ladder 40
He died as a result of injuries sustained while on duty.
1948 - MILWAUKEE, WI
Supt. John J. Cwiklinski - Bureau of Construction & Maintenance
While operating at a factory fire, he was severely burned by a caustic
substance and died as a result.
1959 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Ludwig A.E. Beckmann - Engine 31 - 23-year veteran
He died while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1995 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Thomas J. O'Boyle - Commissioner's Aide - Age 55 - 28-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a 3-alarm furniture
store fire. It was his 55th birthday.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1907 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F John J. Carey - Ladder 110
He was killed while responding to an alarm.
1922 - BOSTON, MA
Capt. William J. Swan - Ladder 15
He was killed when he was run over by the apparatus while responding to
an alarm.
1955 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Bernard Izban - Engine 71
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters after returning from an
alarm.
1981 - CHICAGO, IL
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty.
1989 - CATLETT, VA
Vol. F/F Mark Miller - Wagon 7 - Age 23
Vol. F/F Matthew Smith - Wagon 7 - Age 22
While responding to a car fire, they were killed instantly, and 3 other
F/Fs were injured, 2 critically, when the apparatus was struck by a 75
mph passenger train at a rail crossing. The force of the impact caused
the 2 locomotives and 11 cars of the train to derail.
1992 - DENVER, CO
F/F Mark Langvardt - Age 39
While fighting a fire in a printing firm, he died of smoke inhalation
after becoming trapped when the floor collapsed under him, dropping him
to the 1st floor.
1994 - SALLISAW, OK
Vol. Chief Gus E. Fullbright Jr.
He died as a result of critical burns sustained September 13th, when he
and several other F/Fs were caught in an explosion while fighting a fire
in a garage with a car inside.
1995 - GREENSBURG, PA
Vol. Sgt. John Fisher
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding on foot to a call for
a pedestrian that was struck by a train.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1912 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Patrick Carroll - Engine 88
He suffered a fatal heart attack while responding to an alarm.
1921 - ATLANTA, GA
Asst. Chief S. Blake Chapman - Age 65 - 34-year veteran
While directing operations at a smoky fire in a cotton warehouse, he
stepped into an open elevator shaft and plunged 3 stories to the ground.
He suffered a broken back, fractured skull, a broken leg and shoulder,
and critical internal injuries. He was rushed to the hospital, where he
died a short time later.
1925 - BROOKLYN, NY
Batt. Chief Michael F. Harley - Battalion 43
He was killed when his car struck a telephone pole while responding to
an alarm.
1947 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Albert E. Mitchler - Rescue 2
He died as a result of illness contracted in the performance of his
duties.
1970 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Pratt - Truck 12
He suffered a fatal heart attack after making a rescue at a fire.
1996 - HURST, IL
F/F Kevin Reveal - Herrin F.D. - Age 31
He was killed when a wall suddenly collapsed without warning as he and
several other F/Fs were removing boards from the windows of a burning
building.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1896 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F John F. Hickey - Engine 213
He was killed when he fell 35 feet while operating at an alarm.
1900 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Bernard McDonough - Engine 49
He died as a result of injuries sustained September 27th, when the rig
collided with a trolley car.
1907 - ATLANTA, GA
F/F George W. Waits - Engine 7 - Age 48 - 16-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained June 21st, when he and several
other F/Fs were caught in the collapse of the front porch while fighting
a dwelling fire. He was the 2nd and last F/F to die as a result of the
collapse.
1919 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F August Danczyk - Engine 87
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a fire.
1924 - CHICAGO, IL
Fire Patrolman Edward Bodden - Fire Patrol 8
He was killed when he was struck by a train in front of quarters while
chasing a ball.
1967 - CHICAGO, IL
Lt. Thomas Murphy - Engine 67
He suffered a fatal heart attack while being hospitalized for pneumonia,
which he contracted in the performance of his duties on August 24th.
1995 - RICHMOND, KY
Instructor Richard A. Washburn - Kentucky Tech Fire/Rescue Training
He suffered a fatal heart attack while teaching a confined space rescue
course.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1916 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Raphael A. Fox - Ladder 22
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an
alarm.
1928 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F George MacFarlane - Truck 16
He was killed when he fell from the apparatus while responding to an
alarm.
1937 - SEATTLE, WA
Capt. Albert S. Wolpert - Engine 16
He died in the performance of his duties.
1945 - BRONX, NY
Lt. Michael W. Tarpey - Ladder 41
He died as a result of injuries sustained September 29th, when he fell
to the floor over a banister on the staircase in quarters.
1964 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. John J. McCorkle - Engine 24
Lt. John J. Geswell - Ladder 26 (detailed to Ladder 4)
F/F Robert J. Clougherty - Engine 3
F/F Francis L. Murphy - Engine 24
F/F James B. Sheedy - Ladder 4
Fire Buff Andrew Sheehan - Engine 3 - Age 25
While fighting a fire in a large, vacant 4-story brick toy factory,
several F/Fs were trapped when a portion of a side wall collapsed. As
other F/Fs began to dig out their trapped comrades, the remainder of the
wall collapsed, burying more men. A total of 5 F/Fs and a fire buff were
killed in the collapses, and many more men were injured.
1992 - BILLERICA, MA
F/F Kenneth B. Bates
He died in the performance of his duties.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1888 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Matthias Kettern - Truck 3
He died in the performance of his duties due to drowning.
1908 - PORTLAND, ME
F/F Barrett
He died while operating at a hotel fire.
1942 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas Fitzgerald - Truck 14
He was killed and a captain was critically injured when they were caught
under a collapsing wall while fighting a 5-alarm fire in a trucking
warehouse. The captain died the next day as a result of his injuries.
1963 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. George R. Goger - Engine 312 - 31-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1969 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F James Damico - Ambulance 17
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties on July 2nd, 1968.
1976 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Rudolph Primozic - Truck 49
He suffered a fatal heart attack in quarters while on duty.
1992 - KYBURZ, CA
F/F Leonard D. Martin - U.S. Forestry Service - Age 35
F/F Charles F. Sheridan - U.S. Forestry Service - Age 54
They were killed when their 4-engine DC-7 air tanker crashed into a
mountainside after making a retardant drop on a 20,000-acre forest fire
in the Eldorado National Forest.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1888 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Joseph Home - Engine 30
He was killed when he was thrown from the driver's seat and run over by
the heavy steamer while responding to an alarm.
1892 - PORTLAND, OR
F/F John G. Hewston - Engine 4 - 9-year veteran
While fighting a major fire in a commercial building, he was knocked
from a ladder when the building's tower collapsed. He suffered a severe
skull fracture, and died as a result.
1921 - PORTLAND, OR
Lt. Oscar H. Lehman - Engine 1 - 11-year veteran
He suffered a severe skull fracture and died as a result of a collision
between Engine 1 and another apparatus that was responding to the same
alarm.
1928 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Joseph Charles - Truck 37
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a fire.
1935 - HARTFORD, CT
Capt. John J. McCarthy - Engine 4 - Age 47 - 19-year veteran
While drilling at the new drill tower for the very first time, he was
killed instantly when a sudden increase in pressure on a hoseline
knocked him from the roof, dropping him 90 feet to the pavement.
1942 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. William Steed - Truck 14
He died as a result of injuries sustained the previous day, when he and
a F/F were caught under a collapsing wall while fighting a 5-alarm fire
in a trucking warehouse. The F/F was killed instantly.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1892 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Henry Wallbaum - Engine 3
He was killed in a collision while responding to an alarm.
1902 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas Fitzgerald - Engine 67
He was killed when he fell from the firehouse watch tower.
1922 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Albert Fischer - Engine 21
F/F Patrick A. Murray - Engine 21
F/F Thomas Gilloway - Ladder 2
F/F Edward T. Paxson - Ladder 2
They were killed in the performance of their duties.
1930 - BROOKLYN, NY
Capt. Edward A. Dougherty - Engine 202
He died as a result of injuries sustained October 16th, 1929, while
operating at a 2-alarm fire.
1937 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F George T. Frainey - Truck 4
While battling a 3-alarm fire in a celluloid factory, a tremendous
explosion rocked the complex and showered the entire area with flaming
debris. He was killed when he was struck in the head by a flying steel
girder.
1940 - WASHINGTON, DC
Inspector John H. Gray - Fire Prevention Bureau
He suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty.
1987 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Richard O'Connor - Engine 29
He suffered a fatal heart attack after climbing the stairs to the 10th
floor to assist an EMS crew.
1994 - QUEENS, NY
Capt. Wayne E. Smith - Ladder 136 - Age 37 - 15-year veteran
He died as a result of critical body and inhalation burns sustained
August 7th, when he was caught in a flashover while searching for
trapped ocupants at a 2-alarm dwelling fire.
1996 - TINE HALL, NC
Vol. F/F George M. Guyer - Stokes-Rockingham VFD - Age 38
He was killed in a collision while responding to a call in his personal
vehicle.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1913 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F John B. Barget - Engine 234
He was killed while responding to an alarm.
1955 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F George C. Zapf - Ladder 156 (detailed to Engine 40) - 2-year veteran
While responding to an alarm, he and a civilian were killed when Engine
40 collided with a panel truck, struck 2 cars, and then jumped the curb
and sidewalk into an apartment house.
1968 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Phillip C. Smith - Limited Service Squad
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1988 - CHELSEA, MA
F/F Frederick Donovan
He died in the performance of his duties.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1869 - MANHATTAN, NY
Capt. James Whalen - Engine 6
He was killed when he was run over by the apparatus while responding to
an alarm.
1930 - SPOKANE, WA
Fire Alarm Operator Charles Bunnell - Age 44 - 12-year veteran
He died while on duty in the alarm center.
1951 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Bernard Delamer - Engine 49 - 23-year veteran
He died as a result of multiple trauma sustained September 29th, when he
was thrown from the apparatus while returning from an alarm.
1958 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Frank J. Zatecky - Limited Service Squad - 21-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1966 - BALTIMORE, MD
Lt. Roy E. Buck - Fire Prevention Bureau - Age 44 - 18-year veteran
While driving his car to an assignment, he slumped dead behind the wheel
due to an apparent massive heart attack.
1994 - COUER D'ALENE, ID
F/F Daren J. Smith - U.S. Forest Service
He was struck and killed by a falling tree as he attempted to clear a
fire road.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1892 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F David J. Burke - Truck 8
He was killed in a collision while responding to an alarm.
1900 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Frank B. Cocker - Engine 14
He died in the performance of his duties.
1921 - CAMBRIDGE, MA
Capt. James T. McCabe - Chemical 1 - Age 62 - 33-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a 5-alarm lumber
yard fire.
1923 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
F/F Louis C. Lauth - Squad 1 - Age 28 - 4-year veteran
While responding to a house fire, Squad 1 struck a traffic light pole.
He was riding in the rear of the wagon and was pitched forward, striking
his head on the chemical tank. He was rushed to the hospital, where he
died later in the day.
1941 - MILWAUKEE, WI
F/F Alvin J. Stiller - Engine 26
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a fire.
1980 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Darryl Williams - Engine 68 - Age 29
While operating at a fire, he suddenly collapsed and died.
1982 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Seeman - Engine 97
He suffered a fatal heart attack in the performance of his duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Stay safe, all,
Chief Hank
Line of Duty Research Service
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1902 - SPOKANE, WA
F/F John F. Lynch - Hose Wagon 3 - 5-year veteran
He was killed when he fell from a 3rd floor window while he and another
F/F were drilling with the pompier (scaling) ladders.
1906 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Michael Ehret - Truck 25
He was killed while responding to an alarm, when the apparatus was hit
by a train.
1954 - CHICAGO, IL
2nd Deputy Commissioner Paul H. Conners
He died as a result of injuries sustained the previous day, when he was
caught in a floor collapse while operating at a 3-alarm fire in a hall.
1975 - LYNN, MA
F/F Paul V. Walsh
He died in the performance of his duties.
1985 - CROW VALLEY, OR
Vol. F/F M.L. Francis - Crow Valley Rural FPD
He died of carbon monoxide poisoning in the fire station.
1995 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Peter F. McLaughlin - Rescue 4 - Age 31 - 7-year veteran
He was killed when when he was caught in a flashover while operating on
the top floor at a 3-alarm fire in an apartment house.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1922 - ATLANTA, GA
F/F Robert H. Spearman - Engine 11 - 19-month veteran
He suffered a severe skull fracture and died as a result when he was
thrown from the apparatus while responding to an alarm.
1946 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Vincent Saraullo - Engine 46
He died in the performance of his duties.
1950 - MILWAUKEE, WI
F/F Walter Pufahl - Engine 36
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a fire.
1958 - BRONX, NY
F/F Thomas Casey - Ladder 52 - 21-year veteran
He died in quarters while on duty.
1974 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Batt. Chief Walter T. Long - Battalion 6 - Age 41
He suffered a fatal heart attack after taking part in rescuing a fellow
F/F who became trapped while working at a major fire in a paper products
factory.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1915 - RICHMOND, VA
F/F C.L. Atkinson
F/F R.M. Norment
F/F W.R. Odell
They all died in the performance of their duties.
1942 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Roy Feiereisel - Truck 36
He died as a result of severe burns he sustained on October 8th, while
operating a rooftop air raid siren.
1943 - MILWAUKEE, WI
F/F Albert E. Dessecker - Engine 1
F/F Gordon G. Fischbauer - Truck 3
They suffocated to death when they were caught in a mudslide while
operating at a dump fire.
1967 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. John Donovan - Truck 29
He suffered a fatal heart attack after taking part in the rescue of a
fellow F/F who became trapped while operating at a fire.
1967 - BRONX, NY
F/F Carl Herer - Ladder 19 - 29-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained while operating at a single
alarm fire on June 9th.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1902 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Patrick J. Quail - Ladder 18
While responding to an alarm, he suffered a severe skull fracture and
died when he was thrown from the truck.
1918 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F William H. Richards - Engine 11
He died as a result of influenza contracted in the performance of his
duties.
1957 - AKRON, OH
F/F Ross E. Varner
He died in the performance of his duties.
1960 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Robert J. Denney - Engine 294 - 13-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained in quarters while on duty.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1911 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F John Flynn - Engine 55
He was electrocuted when he came in contact with a live wire while
operating at a fire.
1918 - WASHINGTON, DC
Lt. Frank O. Markward - Truck 4
He died as a result of influenza contracted in the performance of his
duties.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1916 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F Frank Fredericks - Ladder 12
He died in the performance of his duties.
1931 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Matthew J. Dunn - Ladder 14
He died as a result of critical burns sustained while fighting a fire in
a 2-story garage.
1937 - BALTIMORE, MD
Lt. James K. Harrison - Engine 5 - Age 32 - 9-year veteran
While fighting a 5-alarm fire in a printing and box factory, F/Fs heard
a loud crack and started to run for their lives as the building began to
collapse. He stumbled over a raised street grating, while just inches
from safety, and was crushed to death under 20 feet of burning rubble.
It took brother F/Fs about 30 minutes, using torches to cut through the
twisted steel, to get to him.
1945 - QUEENS, NY
F/F James Costello - Engine 263
He died as a result of a severe skull fracture suffered when he fell
down a pole hole in quarters.
1953 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F James J. Morgan III - Engine 208 - 2-year veteran
He died of smoke inhalation while fighting a 5-alarm commercial building
fire.
1956 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Ruby Naturman - Limited Service Squad
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties.
1960 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. John Reszczynski - Truck 19
He died of smoke inhalation while operating at a fire.
1962 - NEWARK, NJ
F/F Salvatore Vacca - Truck 11
He died of smoke inhalation while searching for a victim trapped in a
tenement fire. Both men were found dead.
1994 - GREEN TOWNSHIP, IN
Vol. F/F Roy W. Stephenson
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating the pumps at a building
fire.
1996 - METAIRIE, LA
F/F Keith Boudoin - Jefferson Paris FD - Engine 11 - Age 41 - 19-year
veteran
While preparing to enter a fire building for the third time to search
for possible trapped occupants, he suffered a massive heart attack and
collapsed to the street in full arrest. CPR was started, and he was
rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead after several
additional attempts were made to revive him. He was the first member of
the department to make The Supreme Sacrifice.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Stay safe, all,
Chief Hank
Line Of Duty Research Service
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1880 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Thomas O'Shaughnessy - Engine 1
He died as a result of injuries sustained September 11th, when he was
thrown from the apparatus while responding to an alarm.
1911 - WASHINGTON, DC
Capt. Timothy J. Brown - Engine 4
F/F Michael A. Downs - Engine 4
They were killed when they were caught under a collapsing wall while
fighting a 4-alarm fire in a tobacco warehouse.
1921 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
Capt. George Atkinson - Engine 36
He died in the performance of his duties.
1937 - BALTIMORE, MD
F/F John H. Summers - Engine 15 - Age 40 - 16-year veteran
While taking up hose the next morning from the previous day's 5-alarm
fire (where Lt. Harrison was killed), he lifted a roll of wet hose and
collapsed to the street, dead of an apparent massive heart attack.
1949 - MANHATTAN, NY
While backing out of a 2-alarm fire in a loft building, 2 members of
Fire Patrol 3 were killed when they were caught under an interior floor
collapse.
1960 - COTTAGE GROVE, OR
Vol. F/F L.L. Longton
He died in the performance of his duties.
1966 - SEATTLE, WA
Capt. Harold W. Webb - Engine 13
He died in the performance of his duties.
1973 - BOSTON, MA
F/F John W. Carlson - Battalion 9 Aide
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at an alarm.
1979 - QUEENS, NY
F/F Gerald D. Crowley - Ladder 134 (det. to Lad. 165) - 13-year veteran
He suffered a fatal heart attack while operating at a single-alarm fire.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1904 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F Arthur B. Gibbing - Truck C
He died as a result of an illness contracted in the performance of his
duties.
1921 - CHICAGO, IL
Capt. Patrick Deasy - Engine 116
He was killed as a result of a collision between Engine 116 and another
vehicle while responding to an alarm.
1961 - WORCESTER, MA
F/F Vincent Zinkus
He died in the performance of his duties.
1970 - CHICAGO, IL
Batt. Chief John Kozak - Battalion 18 - Age 55 - 21-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of his
duties on March 16th, 1967.
1972 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. Herman G. Berny - Engine 270 - 17-year veteran
He died as a result of injuries sustained October 10th, while operating
at a 3-alarm fire.
1996 - COWLESVILLE, NY
Vol. 2nd Asst. Chief Karl A. Schmidt - Age 40
He suffered a fatal heart attack while taking part in an EMS training
event.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1891 - PHILADELPHIA, PA
F/F James Forsythe - Engine 11
He died in the performance of his duties.
1918 - WASHINGTON, DC
F/F William T. Byram - Engine 24
He died as a result of influenza contracted in the performance of his
duties.
1940 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Charles Stenvall Jr - Engine 69
He died of smoke inhalation while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1950 - QUEENS, NY
Lt. Robert E. Rummel - Ladder 165 - 19-year veteran
He died as a result of the acute heart attack he suffered December 19th,
1949, while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1970 - BOSTON, MA
Lt. Joseph J. Downing - Engine 2
He died as a result of critical burns sustained September 19th, when the
gasoline tank of a burning taxi cab exploded.
Hank Przybylowicz
_|_ _|_
| THE SUPREME SACRIFICE |
by Hank Przybylowicz
On this date in history, the following members of the fire service made
The Supreme Sacrifice:
1927 - CHICAGO, IL
F/F Richard Hourihan - Truck 20
He died as a result of injuries sustained while returning to quarters
from a fire.
1935 - CAMBRIDGE, MA
F/F Thomas H. Anderson - Engine 2 - Age 54 - 28-year veteran
While driving the pumper to an alarm, he was killed when the engine ran
into the back of Ladder 3.
1937 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F Joseph McNamara - Engine 239
He died of smoke inhalation while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1945 - BROOKLYN, NY
F/F William F. McNulty - Engine 233
He died of smoke inhalation while operating at a single-alarm fire.
1966 - MANHATTAN, NY
Dep. Chief Thomas A. Reilly - Division 3
Batt. Chief Walter J. Higgins - Battalion 7
Lt. Joseph Priore - Engine 18
Lt. John J. Finley - Ladder 7
F/F Walter F. McGarron - Division 3 Aide
F/F James V. Galanaugh - Engine 18
F/F Joseph Kelly II - Engine 18
F/F Bernard A. Tepper - Engine 18
Prob. F/F Daniel L. Rey - Engine 18
F/F John G. Berry - Ladder 7
F/F Rudolph F. Kaminsky - Ladder 7
F/F Carl Lee - Ladder 7
A raging fire in the basement of a 4-story loft building caused the 1st
floor to collapse, pitching most of the F/Fs who were operating there
into the roaring inferno. The ensuing collapse of the upper floors made
immediate rescue attempts impossible. Many F/Fs had close brushes with
death that night, and many heroic rescues were made. Several F/Fs were
seriously injured, but a dozen died in the collapse, making it the worst
tragedy in the history of the FDNY.
1970 - MANHATTAN, NY
F/F Edward A. Tuite - Rescue 1 - 5-year veteran
He was killed when he fell through a boarded over area and fell down an
elevator shaft while venting the roof at a single-alarm fire.
"Lay me down beside cool waters
And lay to rest my body sore
Send the word out to my brothers
The fire is down, let it burn no more."
-- Charlie Ball
"Fireman's Prayer"
Let us not forget these brave souls who unselfishly gave their lives in
the performance of their duties. Let us all take a moment out of our
busy day to say a prayer for these fallen soldiers of the Lord, and ask
that He grant them eternal rest and peace in His Kingdom.
Stay safe, all,
Chief Hank
Line Of Duty Resaerch Service