On December 3, 1999, the vacant, six-story Worcester Cold Storage and Warehouse Co. building in Worcester, Massachusetts, was set ablaze by two homeless people knocking a lighted candle into a pile of ragged clothes.

The Worcester Fire Department responded at 6:13 p.m. to Box Alarm 1438.

The Rescue 1 team of Firefighter Paul Brotherton and Firefighter Jerry Lucey entered the building searching for occupants. Fire conditions worsened in the building at an alarmingly unexpected rate. Paul and Jerry, on the fifth floor, became disoriented in the smoke-filled building. Lost, and running low on air, they called for help. Several teams began searching for the lost fire fighters. Two teams reaching the fifth floor also found themselves disoriented in the smoke and trapped by the maze of interior walls — Lieutenant Tom Spencer and Firefighter Tim Jackson from Ladder 2, and Firefighter Jay Lyons and Firefighter Joe McGuirk from Engine 3. Though many more brave fire fighters attempted to locate their missing brothers, their efforts proved futile.

Six heroes died that night — their last alarm. May they always be remembered.

The deaths of Firefighters Paul A. Brotherton, Timothy P. Jackson, Jeremiah M. Lucey, James F. “Jay” Lyons III, Joseph T. McGuirk, and Lt. Thomas E. Spencer devastated Worcester and the nation. Their deaths marked the worst loss of fire fighters’ lives in more than 20 years in a building fire in America, and the third worst fire in Massachusetts’ history.

Six days after they died, a memorial service drew 30,000 fire fighters and 10,000 civilians in what was believed to have been the largest such service for fire fighters killed on duty. Fire fighters from across the country and from other countries attended, as did scores of prominent officials, including President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore.

We Will Never Forget their Many Sacrifices and Will Always Remember their Heroic Actions on that day.  We Thank the Families for Sharing these six men with us and Will Always Remember and Honor their Legacy they Leave Behind.

The following remembrances of the six fallen heroes who died in the December 3, 1999, fire appeared in the program for their memorial service in Worcester, Massachusetts, December 9, 1999, and are reprinted here courtesy of the Worcester fire fighters’ union, Local 1009, International Association of Fire Fighters.

Firefighter Paul A. Brotherton

Rescue 1

“He was a very loving and caring husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. We will remember not only his sense of dedication to his job, but also his love of life and his sense of humor.”

— The Brotherton Family

Firefighter Paul A. Brotherton, 41, was a 16-year veteran of the Worcester Fire Department and served on the Rescue Squad for five years. A native of Worcester, he graduated from Burncoat High School and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Paul and his wife, Denise, lived in Auburn with their six sons: Michael Paul, age 14, Brian George, age 13, Steven Patrick, age 11, Timothy Roger, age 9, Jonathan David, age 7, and David McCauliff, age 6.

Paul, described as a wonderful family man, raised his sister Kim after the death of their parents. His brother fire fighters were like a second family to Paul and all were invited to celebrate Kim’s marriage in 1998. When he wasn’t on duty, Paul enjoyed playing with his kids, riding his Harley-Davidson and going to Foxwoods. A talented cook, he could be counted on to whip up Sunday morning breakfast for his fellow fire fighters after night duty. While he took his role as a fire fighter seriously, he was also known to enjoy a good joke.

Fun-loving, with a zest for life, Paul leaves a legacy in his six sons. He will be sadly missed by his family, his friends and the community.

Firefighter Timothy P. Jackson

Ladder 2

“What I will always remember is the way Tim lived for the action. He wanted to be in it all the time.”

— Worcester Firefighter Kenneth A. Godbout, longtime friend

Firefighter Timothy P. Jackson, 51, a dedicated member of the Worcester Fire Department for 27 years, is remembered by family, friends and his brother fire fighters as a kindhearted man who spent many hours toiling in his yard, planting trees, shrubs and flowers, and polishing the chrome on his prized Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

The oldest of 13 children, Tim had served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was committed to the causes of Vietnam veterans and would ride his motorcycle to Washington, D.C., for rallies.

Tim and his wife, Mary, referred to their home in Hopedale as God’s country and enjoyed raising lilacs, especially the fragrant Korean variety that he grew by his back porch steps. Neighbor Jane Dean said she envied his touch with plants and how he was always dedicated to seeing that everything was growing well.

His friend, Firefighter Ken Godbout, remembers that he began his career with the Fire Department the same day as Tim – December 17, 1972. He and his fire fighter brothers have been touched by the irony that Tim, with service in the Vietnam War, would lose his life in a Worcester warehouse while trying to save his comrades.

He leaves behind his wife, Mary, and three sons and a stepdaughter, Diane.

While serving his country, Timothy was awarded a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, and an Army Commendation Medal.

Firefighter Jeremiah M. Lucey

Rescue 1

“He was a fire fighter’s fire fighter. He’s a guy you could count on in all aspects.”

— Worcester Firefighter Paul R. LaRochelle, Jerry’s partner

Firefighter Jeremiah M. Lucey, 38, is remembered by family and friends as always smiling and a perfectionist in every way. A native of Worcester, he joined the Worcester Fire Department in 1991. He served with the Rescue Squad at the Central Street Fire Station and with the Mass Hazardous Materials Response Team. He was also a member of the Worcester Fire Department color guard.

Jerry was raised in the Main South area of Worcester. His parents remember a hard-working boy who was always willing to help whenever and wherever needed. When he was old enough, he took on a newspaper route and saved enough money to buy his first car – a 1970 banana yellow Plymouth Duster.

As an adult, it was his Harley-Davidson motorcycle that Jerry most enjoyed getting around on. Among his greatest pleasures were spending time with his family, coaching his sons’ soccer teams, scuba diving, fishing, camping, canoeing, and visits to the beach.

Jerry’s five-year partner on the Fire Department, Paul LaRochelle, recalls that being a fire fighter wasn’t just a job for Jerry. “He loved the camaraderie, the brotherhood and every aspect of the work, from helping people at all costs to participating in parades or standing guard at a colleague’s funeral.”

Jerry leaves behind his wife, Michelle; two sons, Jeremiah III, age 11, and John, age 8; his parents, Jeremiah and Bridget Lucey; and a sister, Noreen Fabrycki.

Firefighter James F. “Jay” Lyons III

Engine 3

“He was a gentle, loving boy. He was a hero here, and he was a hero the day he was born.”

— Mr. James F. Lyons, Jay’s father

Firefighter James F. “Jay” Lyons III, 34, is remembered as a young man who lived by his dreams and dedicated himself to all those who were part of them. He joined the Worcester Fire Department in 1987 immediately after graduating from Clark University. Four years later, he decided to broaden his career in public service and joined the Massachusetts State Police. This was just another testament to his desire and commitment to protecting the lives of others.

In 1996, he returned to the job he always loved among the ranks of the Worcester Fire Department stationed at Grove Street, Engine 3. He challenged his goals and lived his endeavors to the fullest. He ran road races for charities, reached out to those in need, and spent his spare time bringing joy to his sick younger cousin he loved so much.

Jay also pursued other lifelong ambitions. He traveled around the country on another love, his motorcycle. He also returned to his ancestral roots with a visit to Ireland with his family. All the while, he remained focused on his job. He had recently placed fifth on the lieutenants’ exam and was awaiting promotion. His most recent quest as a fire fighter was to become a proud member of the Worcester Bagpipe Brigade.

A loving son, brother, friend and comrade to many, Jay will he remembered in life not for all he accomplished, but for who he was.

He is survived by his parents, James F. and Joan Lyons.

 

Firefighter Joseph T. McGuirk

Engine 3

“He was just a great kid and a good family man. He was never happier than when he became a fire fighter.”

— John F. McGuirk, Joe’s older brother

Firefighter Joseph T. McGuirk, 38, saw a longtime dream come true when he was appointed to the Worcester Fire Department in 1997. A Worcester native, and the youngest of 10 children, he grew up the son of a Worcester fire fighter as well as the brother, nephew and cousin of local fire fighters.

A graduate of Burncoat Senior High School, he enjoyed playing hockey and played on several teams during and after high school. He made a living for many years as a talented carpenter, but always harbored a desire to serve as a fire fighter, following in the footsteps of his dad and older brother.

On December 5, 1997, he was sworn in as a member of the Worcester Fire Department and was assigned to Engine 3 at the Grove Street Fire Station. For those who working closely with Joe, he was known for his inability to say “no” regardless of how busy he was or what he was doing. He always had the time to help others fix what was broken or finish what needed to be finished.

Joe leaves behind his wife, Linda, and their two children, Everett and Emily. In early November, they enjoyed an eight-day family getaway to Walt Disney World in Orlando, and just several days ago, Joe and his wife attended his 20-year high school reunion. The family made their home in the Rochdale section of Leicester.

 

Lieutenant Thomas E. Spencer

Ladder 2

“Most of all he was a good person. He would never hesitate to help.”

— Kathy Spencer, Tom’s wife

Fire Lt. Thomas E. “Tommy” Spencer, 42, is remembered for his dedication to family and friends and his giving spirit. He joined the Worcester Fire Department in 1978 and was assigned to the Winslow Street Fire Station.

Upon its closing, he was stationed at Engine 2, South Division. But Tom wanted to be a “ladder man,” and transferred to Ladder 4, Webster Square. After two years at Engine 9, Tatnuck Square, he was promoted to Fire Lieutenant in August 1992, and was assigned to Engine 15, Quinsigamond Village. As soon as a ladder position became available, Tom transferred to Ladder 2, Grove Street.

A lifelong Worcester resident, Tom attended St. Peter’s Grammar School and St. Peter’s High School, where he was a valued member of the football team. In 1979, he married Kathleen Murphy and had three children: two sons, Patrick, age 16, and Daniel, age 13, and one daughter, Casey, age 15. Tom was described as a true family man, and his devotion was evident in his commitment to various community organizations, including St. Charles Boromeo Church, where he and Kathy served as liturgical ministers; the Boy Scouts of America; Worcester Youth Soccer; and the Jesse Burkett Little League.

Tom loved to spend family time outdoors, especially camping, kayaking and hiking. Tom also enjoyed going to Red Sox games and to tailgate parties at the College of the Holy Cross football games. A true baseball enthusiast, he was an expert in baseball trivia and made annual trips to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

Along with Kathy and his children, Tom leaves his parents, Robert and Barbara Spencer; a brother, Michael, who serves as a Worcester fire fighter; and a sister, Linda Morrow.

Firefighter Memorial

As of February 2011 (Last Update)

The Worcester Fire Fighters Memorial Committee (WFFM) began working in late 2001 on the development of a permanent/public memorial to honor Worcester firefighters Paul Brotherton, Timothy Jackson, Jeremiah Lucey, James, “Jay” Lyons, Joseph McGuirk and Lt. Thomas Spencer. WFFMwas formed to select the site of the memorial, to establish a process for community participation and awareness in the design and development of the memorial and to raise funds for the memorial’s design, construction and maintenance.

WFFM has been working closely with the City of Worcester in developing and implementing an Integrated Master Plan for the 8.9 acre site of the proposed Worcester Fire Fighters Memorial at 141 Grove Street, Worcester, Massachusetts—including the following:

• Identifying and correcting critical environmental issues and concerns at Salisbury Pond/Institute Park.
• Transferring 5(+) acres of land from 141 Grove Street back to Institute Park.
• Reducing the cost of the Worcester Fire Fighters Primary Memorial Structure from $1.2 million dollars to $825,000.00 dollars.
• In conjunction with the City of Worcester, raising $3.8 million dollars in State funds to implement the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge Project, an important part of the WFFM Integrated Master Planat the 141 Grove Street site.

2003

WFFM was the recipient of an Order from the City Council of Worcester on November 18, 2003, granting the responsibility, in conjunction with the Worcester Fire Department, to create an 8.9 acre Integrated Master Plan at 141 Grove Street, Worcester Massachusetts for the development of a permanent/public Memorial to honor the six firefighters who died in Worcester, Massachusetts in the line of duty on December 3, 1999.

2004

Pursuant to a Trust Agreement with the City of Worcester dated January, 2004, WFFM conducted a national design competition for the design of the permanent/public Memorial which included a site master plan that served as the basis for the development of the overall WFFM Integrated Master Plan. Gala Simon Associates of Lexington, Ma., were the selected winners of the Worcester Fire Fighters National Design Competition and they are responsible for developing the first preliminary master plan framework for the 141 Grove Street site.

2005

WFFM prepared an Integrated Master Planfor the 8.9 acre site at 141 Grove Street which was approved by the City of Worcester and its Conservation Commission in September, 2005. The WFFM Integrated Master Plan develops and maps the strategy for solving and improving critical environmental and complex public safety and other planning issues at the 141 Grove Street site including the implementation of the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge Project as part of the integrated master plan. The WFFM Integrated Master Plan addresses all major components of the 141 Grove Street site: (1) the Philip E. O’Connell Athletic Field, (2) the Worcester Fire Headquarters building, burn training structure, parking area and new access points and access road, (3) the Worcester Fire Fighters Memorial & Park, (4) the Leary/EMC Training building, and, (5) the Salisbury Pond/Institute Park-pedestrian bridge. The WFFM Integrated Master Planalso includes planning strategies for the siting of other built memorials for past Worcester firefighters who have died in the line of duty and any Worcester firefighters who may perish in the line of duty in the future. All of these important elements have been included in the overall WFFM Integrated Master Plan for 141 Grove Street. WFFM has spent in excess of $550,000.00 in the development and implementation of the WFFM Integrated Master Plan, to date.

2006-2008

On December 11, 2007, the Worcester City Council voted to include the 8.9 acre WFFM Integrated Master Plan at 141 Grove street site as part of the Grand Master Plan for the revitalization of Institute Park.

Working closely with the City of Worcester, WFFM developed the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge proposal for submission to the Massachusetts Legislature to be part of the 2008 Transportation Bond Bill. On July 31, 2008, The Massachusetts House and Senate voted the approval of the 2008 Transportation Bond Bill which included $3.8 million dollars in funding for the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge Project, 141 Grove Street, Worcester, Massachusetts. On August 8, 2008, Massachusetts Governor, Deval Patrick signed the Transportation Bond Bill that provided $3.8 million dollars in funding for the implementation of a portion the WFFM Integrated Master Plan at 141 Grove Street, Worcester, Massachusetts.

2009

Working closely with the City of Worcester, Department of Public Works and Parks, WFFM prepared a formal proposal in seeking $2.62 million in federal funds for the revitalization and rehabilitation of the Philip E. O’Connell Athletic Field. Like the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge Project, this proposal follows the intent and direction of the WFFM Integrated Master Planby developing a seamless design and development approach for and within the 8.9 acre Grove Street site. This proposal follows the direction of the WFFM Integrated Master Planthereby continuing to ensure the implementation of (1) inspired design, (2) sound environmental objectives and specifications, (3) methodical development/construction techniques and (4) dedicated maintenance procedures to all components of the site and its immediate environs and beyond.

Aerial photo, Philip E. O’Connell athletic field showing Worcester Fire Headquarters & Burn Training Buildings, located at 141 Grove Street, adjacent to Salisbury Pond (photo: Design Development Services, Boston, Ma., 2002)

Looking south across the Philip E. O’Connell Athletic Field with Grove Street on the left and Worcester Fire Headquarters Center, Burn Building Structures in red. (photo: Design Development Services, Boston, Ma., 2002)

2010

WFFM concluded the second and final phase of the Primary Memorial Height Analysis with the recommendation that the final height of the Primary Memorial Structure be 21 feet thereby helping to reduce the cost of the Primary Memorial to $825,000.00. The two-phase height analysis was conducted in winter and summer seasons with special attention to existing and potential views, vistas, view corridors, visual site impediments and other physical and visual factors that might impact how visitors and users of Institute Park will see the Primary Memorial from various locations on Grove Street and within and around Salisbury Pond. Gala Simon Associates, LLC (Winners of the Worcester Fire Fighters Memorial National Design Competition) of Lexington, Massachusetts conducted an analysis of the costs for the Primary Memorial based on the new height recommendation and new state-of-the-art construction techniques and innovative and more durable construction materials–while still maintaining the visual integrity and construction quality of the Primary Memorial Structure. The new construction cost of $825,000.00 reduced the cost of the Primary Memorial by 31% (+/-).

In July, 2010, the first $1 million dollars of the $3.8 million dollars allocated for the Central Massachusetts Emergency Access Road & Bridge Projectwas provided by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the City of Worcester. Construction was started at the 141 Grove Street Site and it is anticipated that the remaining $2.8 million dollars will be allocated for construction completion by 2012.

2011

WFFM in conjunction with the City of Worcester’s Department of Public Works and Parks has mapped the boundaries of the 8.9 acres of land at the 141 Grove Street site and determined that 5(+) acres could be transferred back to Institute Park. Originally the 8.9 acre Grove Street site was owned by the Worcester Art Museum and part of Institute Park. In 1911 the Worcester Art Museum deeded the land to the City of Worcester. In 1954, the City of Worcester obtained authority to transfer the land area from Institute Park to the Worcester Fire Department pursuant to special legislation, Chapter 125 of the Acts of 1954. In the 1950’s the City built a fire station and training ground within the 8.9 acre location. The property came under severe pressure from new development proposals and WFFM protected the land by proposing to keep and retain the Philip E. O’Connell Athletic Field as part of the Worcester Fire Fighters Memorial Project. By doing so, a substantial portion of the 141 Grove Street land as defined in the WFFM Integrated Master Planwill be transferred back to Institute Park after more than fifty years, thereby protecting the land forever from future development. All of this has been made possible by the November 18, 2003, Order of the City Council and the Trust Agreement between WFFM, Inc., and the City of Worcester. WFFM’s mission to memorialize the six firefighter heroes who lost their lives trying to save the lives of others on December 3, 1999, played an important role in protecting the integrity of the various uses at this important site.

WFFM is presently conducting a feasibility study to determine the framework of raising the remaining $825,000.00 for the Primary Memorial structure. In addition, WFFM continues to oversee the implementation of the WFFM Integrated Master Planat 141 Grove Street where construction has started at the Worcester Fire Department.

Today, we Remember the Six Fallen Firefighters for the 13th Year in a Row.  May We Always Remember Their Heroic Actions and Sacrifices that were made on this Day. 

Thank you to the men and women who continue this great profession across the U.S. and around the World.  We are forever indebted to you and your families. 

Republished: 12/3/12 2115 Hours PST

Courtesy:  Worcester Local Union and Firefighters