2010 Fallen Firefighter's Memorial Event

Every year, the LAFD Historical Society celebrates the lives and contributions of those firefighters who gave their lives while in service to the city. The 2010 event took place on a picture perfect day in Hollywood, attended by a faithful audience of firefighters, family members of those who died in the line of duty, and civic leaders. Firefighters from all over the city attended, and the street outside the memorial plaza was filled with fire apparatus.

After a solemn presentation by the LAFD Honor Guard, event presenter Captain I Steven Owens (76-C) introduced a series of speakers, including Council Member Tom LaBonge, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Fire Commissioner Jill Furillo, Fire Chief Millage Peaks, and the children of Fire Captain Joseph Dupee, who was killed while fighting a structure fire (March 8, 1998). Both boys made short, personal, and heartfelt presentations.

Mayor Villaraigosa spoke from the heart and engaged the audience, acknowledging the families, the sacrifice, and the dangers that exist in the firefighting service generally, and in Los Angeles specifically. Chief Peaks echoed the Mayor, adding that the current economic situation has created even more demands on firefighters, and that only their training had prevented disaster. Chief Peaks spoke dearly about his firefighters and was supportive to the families in attendance.

With beautiful music, singing, and a flyover by the LAFD Air Ops Section, not to mention the ever moving bagpipes of retired Paramedic John Keyes, the 90 minute event brings honor to every LA firefighter. The LAFD Historical Society will work to ensure that not one name is forgotten. Retired Fire Captain and LAFDHS President Jim Finn read the names of every firefighter who served the city and died during their service while on duty. It is a moving experience to hear each name read, the only other sounds being the flutter of the flag suspended between two raised aerial ladders and the soulful bagpipes of John Keyes.

Following the memorial event, the museum was open for tours, and refreshments were provided to all in attendance.

Our 2011 event will take place in October of next year. We invite you and your family to attend.

The LAFD Historical Society Museum and Memorial is open every Saturday from 10AM thru 4PM. All are welcome and currently, there is no admission charge. Come learn about the history of firefighting in Los Angeles.

For information, please feel free to contact the museum at 323-464-2727.