As we navigate through 2020 and the Covid-19 epidemic, we have all learned that some things are just out of our control. It was with a heavy heart we first learned that both the in-person IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial and the California Firefighter Memorial would be cancelled, however, we were elated to discover that both held virtual ceremonies. The IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial Honored six of our own Fallen Brothers: Donald C. Welcker, Michael K McOsker, James V. Como, Donald W. Wallace, Glen R. Phillips, and Rick W. Watson.
All 2020 honoree families will be invited to attend the 2021 Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial where our fallen members will receive proper recognition, along with those lost in 2020 at a traditional ceremony, with all families receiving their flag.
“Like all of you, we are disappointed that we are unable to hold our memorable, beautiful ceremony, but the IAFF believes this was the safest and best path to ensure that we honor our fallen this year as best we can under the circumstances, guided by the information available to us today.” said IAFF.
As part of the California Firefighter Memorial, names of 32 fallen California firefighters were engraved on the California Firefighters Memorial Wall at California State Capitol Park, Sacramento. In addition to the commemorative video tribute, all 32 fallen heroes from 2020 will be honored at the 2021 Memorial Ceremony. The California Firefighter Memorial Honored four of our LAFD Fallen Brothers: Glen R. Phillips, Donald C. Welcker, James V. Como, and Rick W. Watson.“It is our hope that this year’s memorial tribute truly honors the fallen and the California Fire Foundation is proud to enshrine their sacrifice into Californian history.” said CA Fire Foundation.
