Well, I just returned from a trip back home where I attended my father’s memorial service.
He entered into this life 12/12/1936 and entered into eternal life 4/10/2009 on Good Friday.
This is what I shared at his service:
I’m going to share two Firefighter’s Pledges, because I think they really show Dad’s strength and character.
A Firefighter’s Pledge
I promise concern for others.
A willingness to help all those in need.
Promise courage - courage to face and conquer my fears.
Courage to share and endure the ordeal of those who need me.
I promise strength - strength of heart to bear
whatever burdens might be placed upon me.
Strength of body to deliver to safety
all those placed within my care.
I promise the wisdom to lead,
the compassion to comfort,
and the love to serve unselfishly
whenever I am called.
The Solemn Pledge of the Los Angeles Firefighters
… To Always Be There When You Need Us.
To Protect You From Harm.
To Always Do Our Best.
To Never Take Your Support For Granted.
I have a lot of great memories of my dad being a firefighter. I remember he worked a lot of holidays, and I’ll never forget having Thanksgiving turkey dinner at the firehouse, or Santa on the fire engine at Christmastime! It was awesome, because they made enough for anyone in the neighborhood who wanted to stop by and have a bite and take a toy. I loved waterskiing with the LAFD boat and ski club, and riding dirt bikes in the desert with a group of fire friends… As a kid, I loved the burnt smell of his turnout coat and boots, but I never had any idea what horrors they’d visited while collecting the scent.
Thank you Dad…
For all you’ve accomplished over the years. Your public service. And private love.
You will be missed, but we know that you’re relived from pain now.
I’m proud, but not surprised, at how honorable and courageous you were up until the end. I find peace knowing that you had a gentle transition to God, during a well-deserved slumber.
I’m grateful for the years we lived close to you and mom, after living abroad. I’m so happy you had a chance to know your granddaughter and grandson; how they loved to visit (and make a mess of) your house! I can’t help thinking of you every time I hear them jumping upstairs in our new house, “what’re those kids DOING up there?!” We will always remember you with love Dad. My family and I have memories we’ll cherish forever.
We love you and know that we will one day be reunited in Heaven. But, until then, say hi to the family for me!
