Honoring the firefighters who have been lost to our community, this space is dedicated to remembering their courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public safety.
- CONTACT INFORMATION
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Non-Emergency
806-378-9360 -
Emergency
9-1-1 -
Fire Administration
310 S Van Buren
Amarillo, Texas 79101
Tribute to our fallen heroes
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. – John 15:13 KJV
Kenneth A. Caldwell
Firefighter
Deceased: December 21, 1982
Nicknamed: ‘Kenny the Kid’
Kenneth A. Caldwell's Story
Became a member of the AFD on September 2‚ 1980.
Kenneth A. Caldwell of the Amarillo (TX) Fire Department passed away in the line of duty on August 16, 1982. Kenny passed away from injuries he suffered fighting a fire that took place at the Badger Apartments – July 18‚ 1982. These apartments were located at 11th & South Jackson in Amarillo and it was later determined that the cause of the blaze was arson.
Christopher Brian Hunton
Firefighter
Deceased: April 25, 2005
Nicknamed: ‘Shrek’
Christopher Brian Hunton's Story
April 25, 2005 Christopher Brian Hunton aka “Shrek” passed away after falling from a fire truck while responding to a structure fire. He was putting on his turnout gear without a seatbelt as they turned the corner, the door came open, and he fell out.
After this tragic incident, the AFD created the “Team Brian” pledge. All members of our department have pledged an oath to always wear our seatbelts – no exceptions. Please take this as a reminder to Buckle Up and stay safe!
Robert Schwab
Assistant Fire Chief
Deceased: February 25, 1973
Nicknamed: ‘Bob’
Robert Schwab's Story
Assistant Fire Chief Robert “Bob” Schwab reported to work on February 24, 1973. Later that afternoon, he and fire crews responded to a structure fire in the 700 block of N. Johnson St. Several hours later, while back at the fire station, Chief Schwab suffered a heart attack and, despite the resuscitation efforts from fellow firefighters, passed away at 44 years of age. Chief Schwab was survived by his wife, Eleanor, and three sons, Robert, Jerry, and Gary.
Born on April 15, 1928, Chief Schwab began his career as a Firefighter for the City of Amarillo on July 13, 1949. On December 1, 1952, he was transferred to Record Clerk, holding that position until he became a Fire Driver on September 1, 1953. He was promoted to Lieutenant on September 10, 1957, and then to Fire Captain on January 16, 1962. On March 1, 1962, he became Drillmaster of the Department, and under his proficient guidance, the training program attained the mark of excellence it holds today. Chief Schwab became an Assistant Fire Chief on January 1, 1968, and served the City of Amarillo until his untimely death with 24 years of dedicated service.
The Amarillo Fire Department will be forever grateful for Chief Schwab’s sacrifice.
David Loar
District Chief
Deceased: June 12, 1973
David Loar's Story
David Loar passed away on June 12, 1973 after falling from a 25-foot overpass. The accident occurred about 3:30am as Loar was taking notes for an investigation of a cattle truck that caught fire and exploded on the Western Street overpass of the Canyon Expressway.
We honor you and thank you for your service Chief. Rest in peace.
Austin M. Williams
Firefighter
Deceased: May 7, 1936
Nicknamed: ‘Hotshot’
Austin M. Williams' Story
Austin M. Williams, 33 years of age, a 10-year veteran of the Amarillo Fire Department, passed away while fighting a blaze in a downtown warehouse. He was crushed beneath a collapsed wall of hot bricks when the support beams burned out and gave way.
Austin “Hotshot” Williams left behind a young widow and two small children. Thank you for your ultimate sacrifice, brother.