IT HAS BEEN A YEAR since East Pierce Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Dan Packer was killed in a California wildfire. Sunday, his family, friends and firefighters attended a dedication ceremony to honor his sacrifice on the anniversary of his death.

More than two hundred gathered at the East Pierce headquarters fire station on Old Buckley Highway in Bonney Lake to share their memories of the fallen chief, recalling his commitment to the firefighters he led and the communities he served. The mayors of both Bonney Lake and Sumner declared July 26 an official day of remembrance.

Everyone is welcome to celebrate Chief Packer’s life by contributing stories, memories and photographs at: Packer Everlasting Memorial Page.

Please enjoy these photos from the ceremony. To watch the complete video from the ceremony, click here.

(From the dedication speech, by East Pierce Volunteer Firefighters' Association Vice President Sean Slattery, July 26, 2009)

"Chief Packer was a firefighter in the proudest of traditions and we honor his example with this Walk. It is our hope that the names that will appear on the bricks next to his will not only pay tribute to those who have given so generously of their time and energy, but also serve as a reminder to the rest of us of what we can achieve when we dedicate ourselves in service to others.

In the Scripture, the Lord asks, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”

Isaiah responded by saying, “Here am I, Send me!”

It is with great pride that we dedicate the Chief Dan Packer Walk of Honor on behalf of all those who have answered and will continue to answer, “Send me!”

We are profoundly grateful for what you have done, and you will forever be our heroes."

For more information about the Walk of Honor -- and an application to have a brick inscribed -- go to www.eastpiercevfa.org.