Cody Wilcox, a 6-year veteran of the fire service, was injured in an accidental gunshot wound on Saturday, August 11th. This injury will keep him out of commission for at least 12 weeks. Cody, a new officer serving as a First Lieutenant, works three jobs to support his son and fiancée. Unfortunately, none of these jobs provide short-term disability benefits.

In addition to his fire service role, Cody works for Green For Life Environmental and serves as the City Ordinance Officer for Brown City. During this challenging time, he is seeking assistance to help cover his family's needs while he is unable to work.

Any support extended to Cody and his family would be greatly appreciated as they navigate this difficult period.

Bubba McClure has been a dedicated firefighter in Idaho for over 15 years, serving with Local 5327 in the Parma Rural Fire District, volunteering with the Ola Fire Department, and deploying to wildland fires with the Sand Hollow Fire District. Bubba and his family have deep roots in Ola, Idaho, where they live on their family ranch.

On August 7th, 2024, Bubba was called back from his deployment on the Limepoint Fire to assist his own community with fire protection. Upon returning home, he immediately joined forces with the BLM and local mutual aid crews, working tirelessly to protect the homes and lives of his neighbors and friends.

We are deeply saddened to share that Firefighter Ty Voth, a dedicated member of the Wichita Fire Department, tragically fell in the line of duty while bravely serving our community. When others run away from danger, Wichita Firefighters like Ty run in without hesitation.

Ty Voth was a five-year veteran of the Wichita Fire Department. His selflessness and dedication were unmatched; he always put others before himself. Our fire department is more than a team—it's a family, and this loss is felt profoundly by us all.

Before joining the Wichita Fire Department, Ty Voth served with the Manhattan, KS Fire Department, where he also demonstrated his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others.

Ty's legacy of bravery and selflessness will forever be remembered by his Wichita Fire Department family and the entire community.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jeff Tomczak, who was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in April 2023. On Thursday, July 25th, Jeff's suffering came to an end.

Jeff dedicated over 25 years as a DOD firefighter for the U.S. Army and U.S. Air National Guard, served as a firefighter and fire marshal for the Allentown Fire Department for 14 years, and worked as the Deputy Fire Marshal for Upper Gwynedd Township. He was also a 28-year member of the Upper Gwynedd Township Fire Department, where he served as Chief until his passing.

The military and the IAFF are recognizing Jeff's cancer as occupational and are treating his death as an occupational line-of-duty death (LODD).

Jeff leaves behind his beloved wife, Brittany, and their two sons, Matthew (14) and Connor (10). In this difficult time, any support from The Yard Foundation to help Jeff's family would be greatly appreciated.

Let us honor Jeff's legacy and commitment to service by supporting his family during this challenging period.

It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Captain Kevin Hargis, a dedicated and highly respected member of the Joliet Fire Department. Captain Hargis, a 22-year veteran of the department, passed away suddenly on June 29, leaving a profound void in our community and a beloved family grieving the loss of a Husband, Son, and Brother.

Kevin's career with the Joliet Fire Department was marked by his commitment and diverse roles. He served as a member and coordinator of the Hazardous Materials Team, a safety committee member, a CPR instructor, coordinator, and trainer, and as the Captain of Fire Station No. 7. His extensive qualifications include almost every state of Illinois certification for firefighters, as well as advanced levels, showcasing his dedication to professional excellence.

In addition to his roles within the fire service, Kevin was a Paramedic Instructor and Board-Certified Emergency Nurse, further highlighting his passion for helping others and his extensive training and formal education.

The loss of Captain Hargis is deeply felt by his colleagues at the Joliet Fire Department, where his leadership, knowledge, and compassion were invaluable. His impact extended beyond the department into the wider community, where his dedication to service made a significant difference.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Hargis family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Kevin's legacy of service and care will continue to inspire us all.

To the Joliet community, we ask that you keep Kevin's family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through this period of grief. Your support and compassion are greatly appreciated.

In honor of Captain Kevin Hargis, let us come together to celebrate his life and continue his mission of helping others.