To: Relief Association Board
Your article in the August issue of the Firemen’s Grapevine brings back memories of the Association’s generosity to me back in 2001, when I was the recipient of the historic and ongoing Leo Najarian Scholarship.
As is often stressed these days, higher education has become extremely expensive, with scholarships and awards filling critical roles for many individuals in completing that educational journey. My own receipt of such a scholarship was indispensable, and I remain immensely grateful for the Relief Association’s assistance.
After high school I attended Washington University in St. Louis, graduating after four years with a dual major. I was accepted to medical school in New York for four more years,·and then pursued a General Surgery Residency in Phoenix, where I have been for the last five years. I am now looking forward to starting a three-year Fellowship in Chicago in Plastic Surgery, which represents the end of my (formal) education.
Without the assistance of the Relief Association, my journey may never have started, and I would not be where I am today. Thank you again.
Most Appreciatively,
David Hill
Dr David Hill is the son of Francis E. Hill, who retired from the LAFD in 1979.
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LAFRA:
Wally [Berger] and I came on together in the Class of 2-10-68. While assigned to FS 1, due to the proximity to S&M, we were often there with Wally and his sidekick, Bruce Nelson. He was always ready to help get us what we needed and make our job easier. He supported our Task Force in any way he could. He left way too soon.
Thank you Wally for the kind man you were.
Jim Kinninger
Wellington, NV
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Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association
Thank you for the flag flown over Fire Station 38. I still remember Dad talking about “38’s.” He loved being a firefighter and would tell everyone about his beloved LAFD – that and sea stories.
We miss him dearly and appreciate the support and friendships he had all these years with you all.
Sincerely,
Christeen Welch
Gallatin, TN
Daughter of Ray Abernathy
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Relief Association:
Do you remember John Boyd? FF/PM out of 87’s? He looked and acted like a man with the weight of the world crushing down on his shoulders. One day I asked Rocky Garza, “What’s with Boyd?” What Rock told me changed my whole attitude towards John.
John’s wife had a major stroke. So bad that John was not sure she even recognized him. Most of us would have put her in a home. Not John. He took care of her every day he was off duty. John took care of her until death did they part. John only lived five years past retirement. The stress and sorrow took its toll. Rest in peace John. There is a special place in Heaven for people like you.
Mike Dunn, LAFD retired
Newbury Park, CA
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LAFRA:
I remember Bob [Looney]. I worked with him in Arson. Good guy and lots of fun to work with. Always had a good time but always did his job. Lost contact after his retirement. Hope all his retirement years were good. RIP Bob. I’m sure you’ll be missed.
Your friend,
Terry Depackh
Henderson, NV
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LAFRA:
To the family and friends of Hollis Williams, my heart goes out to you. As a one year boot I went to old 73’s in 1975 on the “B” with Frank Reichel as my Capt II. I worked with Hollis on SOD and vice versa. I never met a man more humble but at the same time willing to impart his knowledge to a new member of the greatest FD in the world. Those days are forever etched in my memory. You, along with Jack Malone, Vern Disney, Larry O’Hanlon , and numerous other “legends,” are forever in my thoughts. God bless you and your entire family.
Rest in peace
Mike Martin, Engineer retired
Saugus, CA
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LAFRA:
I met Capt Jere Souter when I was in high school. He was at 47’s in El Sereno, where I grew up. Before I was eligible to take the FD exam and knowing that I wanted to be a fireman, I would visit Capt Souter on a regular basis. He was kind, empathetic and always generous with his time.
After I was hired in Feb 1980, Cap Souter was one of the first people I updated. He was genuinely happy for me and his enthusiastic acknowledgment was truly heartfelt.
After two months at my first house (FS 29 w/ Iron Mike Ambarian) Captain Souter called me and insisted that I work a SOD day at old Fire Station 80. As soon as I arrived at FS 80, and after giving me a warm welcoming handshake, Capt Souter stated, “Listen, you don’t have to do any of that rookie stuff around here.” My response to him was, “Well… Ok, maybe just some of it.” Needless to say, he spent the rest of the shift ‘kindly’ asking me to ‘slow down’. Great memories.
Captain Souter’s passing has provided me a heartache. But it has given me an opportunity to reflect on how fortunate I was to have met him all those years ago. He was a ‘kind-hearted’ man who took time from his day to help a young kid to believe himself.
To Captain R. Souter and Captain S. Souter – you ‘got’ the best from your Dad. You’re both good men. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Sean K Conway
San Clemente, CA