On June 30, we remember the 19 Prescott, Arizona, fire fighters who died in the line of duty when they were overcome by a fast-moving wildfire near Yarnell. The 2013 loss was the greatest loss of fire fighter life in a single incident since September 11.
The fallen Granite Mountain Hotshots are: Robert Caldwell, Travis Carter, Eric Marsh, Jesse Steed, Travis Turbyfill, Clayton Whitted, Andrew Ashcraft, Dustin DeFord, Christopher MacKenzie, Grant McKee, Sean Misner, Scott Norris, Wade Parker, John Percin Jr., Anthony Rose, Joe Thurston, William Warneke, Kevin Woyjeck and Garret Zuppiger.
“As we mark this anniversary, our thoughts and prayers will be with the families, their United Yavapai Local 3066 brothers and sisters and those who knew the fallen 19,” says General President Ed Kelly. “I encourage all of our members to take a few moments to remember them and their sacrifice.”
“No matter how many years pass, these anniversaries never get easier, but it is important that we remember their sacrifice,” says General Secretary-Treasurer Frank Líma. “Our job now is to continue to fight for improved safety protocols and working conditions in order to prevent future tragedies.”
The 20-member Granite Mountain crew was working to contain the fire when the fast-moving fire overtook their position. Brendan McDonough, who was on lookout duty in a separate location, was the only one to survive.
On this anniversary, Yarnell Hill Fire Memorial Park will officially be dedicated. Fire personnel and family members of the fallen are expected to speak. The park is located at the corner of State Route 89 and Shrine Road in Yarnell and features the names and faces of the fallen on a specially designed memorial.
Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park was also created in honor of the fallen hot shots. It was dedicated in 2016.
