Unfortunately it is my privilege to honor another fireman who lost his life in the performance of his duties. Volunteer Firefighter Elias Jaquez and several of his fellow firefighters (Cactus VFD) went to the aid of the Dumas VFD, which was engaged in trying to control a wildfire near Dumas. As firefighters know, brush fires are very unpredictable. The speed of the fire and the direction of the burn can change in an instant. Fires can easily overtake and surround the brush fire trucks. In this case two fire engines were trapped by flames. Several fireman were burned but most were able to get away and escaped serious injury. Mr. Jaquez was overtaken by the flames and burned.
Over the next two weeks Firefighter Jaquez fought for his life in the burn unit at a Lubbock hospital. No doubt each day was an eternity of pain and suffering. On April 20th, Mr. Jaquez lost his battle for life. He received burns over sixty percent of his body and remained in the critical burn unit until he passed away. A benefit fund has been established in honor of Firefighter Elias Jaquez at the Happy State Bank at https://www.happybank.com
Once again, I say a big "Thank you!" to all firefighters, and I give Mr. Jaquez all praise due him for his willingness to serve his fellow man even as he walked through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. And my prayers to his family and his colleagues. May God cover all firefighters with his Hands.
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