The California Fire Foundation hosted the 24th Annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in Sacramento, California. Fire departments and family members from across the State gathered to honor and remember 37 fallen firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.
Four of our own fallen County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) heroes were added to the California Firefighters Memorial Wall for having served with bravery and distinction:
● Captain David C. Gonzalez.
● Captain Michael Mercado
● Fire Fighter Specialist Ismael M. Villalta-Ayala
● Fire Fighter Paramedic Dustin Roberto
LACoFD Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone joined families, along with members of the Executive Team, IAFF Local 1014, and the Wellness Section – including the Honor Guard, Chaplain’s Office, and Emerald Society – to attend the ceremony and honor California’s fallen fire service heroes.
The LACoFD extends our heartfelt gratitude to the California Fire Foundation for preserving the tradition of honoring and memorializing these fallen heroes. We are grateful for their continued commitment to hosting this annual ceremony and providing an opportunity for families, friends, and colleagues to come together in remembrance. To watch this year’s ceremony, please click here.
