Millions watched on television as a woman, dressed all in black, stared at her feet dangling over the side of the 21-story City National Bank Building in Sherman Oaks. As news helicopters hovered overhead broadcasting live video across the region, police and fire rushed to her aid - eager to save a suicidal woman from a grave mistake. “We tried to gain her trust,” said … [Read more...] about Daring Sherman Oaks Rescue
medal of valor
Medal of Valor: Darin Laier
Kauai Beach Rescue In October 2015, Engineer Darin Laier, who at the time held the rank of firefighter, was on vacation in Kauai, Hawaii, with his wife and four-year-old triplets. Laier and his family were enjoying an afternoon at Queen’s Bath, an area on the north side of the island. While the spot is advertised to tourists as a calm swimming hole, in the winter months it … [Read more...] about Medal of Valor: Darin Laier
Medal of Valor: Harbor Rescue
On April 9, 2015, at approximately 6:10 p.m., Engine and Rescue 112, along with a physical rescue assignment, responded to a reported automobile into the ocean near Berth 73 at the Port of Los Angeles. When Engine and Rescue 112 arrived on scene they saw two adults in the ocean near the dock. Bystanders were also yelling to the firefighters that there were two children trapped … [Read more...] about Medal of Valor: Harbor Rescue
Electrocution Rescue Results in Medals of Valor
In the evening of August 22, 2012, Task Force and Rescue 60 responded to a reported traffic accident on Magnolia Blvd near Ben Ave in North Hollywood. When they arrived on scene, they found that an auto had sheared a fire hydrant and a street light standard before coming to rest nearby. They also found two female victims, lying motionless on the sidewalk beneath the water … [Read more...] about Electrocution Rescue Results in Medals of Valor
Portrait of Valor
While firefighters don't serve the public to win awards, there are times when action taken above and beyond is worthy of recognition. Such is the case of LAFD Firefighter/Paramedic Dan Apodaca, who was awarded the Medal of Valor for a brave rescue performed while off-duty. He also received a Certificate of Appreciation for his life-saving action during an on-duty call. While … [Read more...] about Portrait of Valor