Video of the Prescott hotshot memorial
Jul 1, 2013, 5:51 PM | Updated: Jul 2, 2013, 7:27 pm
PHOENIX — The 19 members of a Prescott-based hotshot crew who died over the weekend were remembered at a memorial ceremony on Monday night.
The memorial was held in Embry-Riddle University’s auditorium, which was filled to capacity for the first time in 10 years.
“No one had a stronger heart,” said Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick of a family member who was one of the hotshots who lost his life. “Stronger in terms of his loving commitment to our community and thinking nothing of putting his life at risk to keep us safe and I know that every member of his crew felt the same way.”
While the ceremony was held to mark the worst firefighter casualty number since Sept. 11, 2001, many speakers told attendees that the fight is long from over against the Yarnell Hill Fire that has burned more than 8,300 acres and destroyed up to 200 homes.
For volunteer, fundraising and other ways to assist those affected by the Yarnell Hill Fire, go to yarnellfallenfirefighters.com.