Our condolences to the Martin and Morrison families and the St. Louis Fire Department of Missouri. FireFighters Derek Martin and Rob Morrison, both 38 years old and both 11 year veterans of the St. Louis Fire Department Rescue 1 died Friday May 3, 2002. Derek and Rob became trapped while trying to rescue a brother firefighter who was lost inside Gravios Refrigeration, a two story brick building. The firefighter they were searching for managed to escape on his own. Derek and Rob were found and rushed to a local hospital, but it was too late, they died shortly after at the hospital. Two other firefighters were injured in the blaze.

     Our brother Derek leaves behind a wife, Angela, and his children, Jordan (13), Denzel (11) and Kayla (3). Derek will lay in state on Wednesday May 8, 2002 at Mercy Seat Baptist Church located at 4424 Washington.

     Our brother Rob leaves behind a wife, Laura, and his children, Megan (8) and Matthew (11). Rob will lay in state on Tuesday May 7, 2002 from 1-9PM at Hoffmeister Colonial, 6464 Chippewa. There will be no public viewing on Wednesday for Rob.

     On Wednesday May 8th, 2002, there will be an assembly of St. Louis City Firefighters to march from Station 1 located at 2910 South Jefferson at 9AM, to Holy Cross Luthran Church located at 2650 Miami for service at 11AM. Reception following internment at St. Lucas School located at 7100 Morganford.

  

     The Backstoppers organization in St. Louis will assist the families of the fallen firefighters. For more information about contributing, call 636-230-9898. Donations also can be mailed to: