In this edition of Size-Up, the County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) spotlights the Los Angeles County Firefighters’ Memorial Committee, a dedicated group of individuals who ensure the contributions, stories, and legacies of fallen heroes are never forgotten.
Led by Deputy Fire Chief Brian Martin and Battalion Chief Brenda Simonian, who serve as co-chairs of the Firefighters’ Memorial Committee, this non-profit organization was created on May 6, 1988. The Committee was formed from the Widows Support Group (now the Family Support Group), as the spouses and families of fallen firefighters wanted a meaningful way to honor their loved ones.
One of the Committee’s first projects was to build a memorial wall, honoring firefighters who died in the line of duty, which became a reality on May 9, 1995. Now, they play a vital role in organizing the annual Firefighters’ Memorial Ceremony at Department Headquarters in unincorporated East Los Angeles. The service honors fallen LACoFD team members for their service, dedication, and bravery.
After completing that goal, the group launched other initiatives, including the annual Firefighters’ Memorial Golf Tournament, the Widows and Orphans Fund, as well as the 80th Anniversary Yearbook. Through the generosity of the Los Angeles County Fire Hogs, the Widows and Orphans Fund continues to grow. The fund provides college scholarships to the children of our fallen members. “The Firefighters’ Memorial Committee and its projects remind us of the courage of those who gave their lives and the sacrifices their families made so others could be safe,” said the Firefighters’ Memorial Committee. “Even now, firefighters continue to run into burning buildings to save people they’ve never met – because they’ve sworn to protect the public.”
The LACoFD is grateful to the Firefighters’ Memorial Committee for their continued efforts to preserve the memory of those who are no longer with us.
