Glenn L. Allen
Following in his father's footsteps, Glenn L. Allen joined the LAFD and devoted himself, heart and soul, to helping the citizens of this city in their times of need. Allen and the crew of Engine 97 responded to a greater alarm structure fire in the Hollywood Hills on the night of Feb. 16, 2011. AS they battled the flames, a ceiling collapse occurred, causing injury to four LAFD members and two LA County firefighters, including Allen. He later succumbed to his injuries at Cedars Sinai Medical Center. He is the 61st Los Angeles Firefighter to have died while directly involved in emergency operations during the Department's 125-year history.
On Friday, February 23, thousands of firefighters from scores of agencies walked in a solemn procession from the south lawn of City Hall. They followed Allen's flag-draped casket borne upon a fire engine caisson. Led by an honor guard and accompanied by a troop of bag-pipers, the mourners filed along streets lined by apparatus representing departments from all across California. Finally, from under a large American flag prominently displayed from crossed aerial ladders, the mourners entered the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
A beautiful tribute to this fallen hero was led by LAFD Chaplain Danny Leon. "Glenn lost his life doing what he was called to do, to help others," said the chaplain to the 3,500 that filled the sanctuary and the thousands more that stood outside in the rain.
Many rose to speak of the departed, describing him as a man who approached life with a true servant's heart, always seeing to it that others' needs were met before his own. One said that first responders are our better angels, our true guardians, those we entrust to safeguard our families. And as a city family, it is now our turn to safeguard the memory of firefighter Glenn Allen.
Fire Chief Millage Peaks displayed Allen's badge to the mourners, and described his fallen colleague as a hero. "The word 'hero' is too often used to describe the most routine and common behaviors . . . but exceptional deeds, noble qualities, exceptional bravery, and special ability are what (define) an authentic hero, and firefighter Allen lacked for none of these qualities," Peaks said.
Members from Fire Station 97, both active and retired, accompanied their fallen comrade throughout the ceremony. They were called to the dais at the conclusion of the service and soberly and stalwartly rang out ten bells for a brother lost.
Allen is survived by his wife, Melanie; his daughter, Rebecca McPhee and husband Brandon; his mother; his brother; and his sister. Allen's daughter gave birth to his first grandchild the day after he died. While Glenn will never know baby Nathaniel, his grandson will definitely know his grandfather and the hero that he was.
Firefighter/Paramedic Glenn Allen, a beloved husband, father, brother, and son, dedicated his life to the most selfless public service there is - saving other people who find themselves in harm's way. Allen paid the ultimate sacrifice in his service to his fellow man. May he rest in peace.
To make a contribution to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund in Glenn Allen's name, please click here or mail 815 Colorado Blvd., 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90041.