Paying tribute to fallen firefighters
The Honor Guard performs at the B61 Last Production Unit Ceremony
Firefighter Memorial Day is observed on the first Sunday in May as a tribute to those who died in the line of duty. There were 62 firefighter deaths nationwide in 2024 according to the U.S. Fire Administration. While we dedicate that day to remembering those who bravely served, members of the Pantex Honor Guard show support for fallen first responders throughout the year by participating in funerals, memorials, and other events.
“Unfortunately, firefighting can be a deadly profession,” Assistant Fire Chief and Honor Guard member Bob Napp said. “We have participated in at least 12 funerals or memorial services for line of duty deaths or retired firefighters who have passed away. Most recently for the Perryton assistant chief and the Fritch fire chief.”
Fire service is rooted in duty, honor, and pride. The Honor Guard exemplifies these characteristics. Honor Guard members are responsible for executing precise movements during ceremonies, symbolizing the discipline and commitment likened to military service.
“It takes a lot of extra time and dedication to train,” Battalion Chief and Honor Guard Member Jeremy Baker said. “Our members represent the department at funerals voluntarily. It is an honor, not an obligation.”
The Pantex Honor Guard participates in various events including Veterans Day, Armed Forces Day, Independence Day, September 11 Memorial tribute, openings of facilities, and completion of program celebrations. Ceremonies often include the presentation of colors, where flag bearers present or retire a flag. Events are diverse and signify different things to each member.
“Every one of the funerals we have done is meaningful,” Napp said. “Members of our Honor Guard were present at the memorial service for the 11 firefighters killed in the explosion in West, Texas. We attended the funeral for the four Houston firefighters killed in a roof collapse. We did the funeral for the fire chief in Memphis, Texas.”
Performing at important ceremonies can be stressful yet fulfilling because of the desire to make everything perfect for the family of those being honored.
“We have so much planning and preparation that has to be done to ensure everything is exactly right,” Baker said. “Initially, depending upon the type of event, the feelings range from sadness to a great sense of pride.”
The Pantex Honor Guard was established in 2011 and currently has 14 dedicated members. Their very first performance honored a founding member of the guard who died in a weather-related crash outside of work.
“I’ve been a member of the Honor Guard since its inception,” Battalion Chief and Honor Guard member Anthony Dompe said. “Our first event was the funeral for the firefighter responsible for starting our Honor Guard, Jody Baker. That will always be a meaningful event to me. Our Honor Guard has had the honor of laying two of our own to rest as well as several firefighters in the panhandle. For me it is the most important thing we do.”
Honor Guard members encourage Pantexans to take time today to pause and remember fallen firefighters who served our communities through fire prevention, community service, and emergency response.