Remembering Those Who Have Paid The Ultimate Price

on Jun 09 in Features, LODD, News, Remembrance tagged Becky Robinette Wright, Cecilia Turnbough, Edward Mizell, Memorial Service, Roy Smith, Virginia Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, Virginia Prof, VPFF, William David Lee Jr. by Webteam

Virginia Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service
By Becky Robinette Wright

Roy Dale Smith III of McGaheysville Volunteer Fire Company,William David Lee Jr of Virginia Beach Fire Department,Edward Spencer Mizell of Portsmouth Fire Department and Cecilia Turnbough of Dale City Volunteer Fire Department were honored for their sacrifice of giving their lives in the Line of Duty at Virginia Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial on June 6 at the RIR Complex on Laburnum Avenue.

Roy Dale Smith III
October 18,1991-November 7,2008

Smith served not only with McGaheysville Volunteer Fire Company but was a junior member of Shenandoah Volunteer Fire Company. Smith died as an accident, in his personal vehicle, while responding to a structure fire in McGaheysville.

The dedicated firefighter understood how a fire victim felt, he was a burn survivor himself.

As a three year old Smith received a burn injury. He attended the Mid-Atlantic Burn Camp in Rockingham County and had the goal of returning as a counselor.

Smith followed in the footsteps of his father who was a volunteer firefighter.

Smith was active in the Future Farmers of America and Skills USA, he was a junior at Spotswood High School.

William David Lee, Jr.
November 12,1949-August 5,2008

Lee valiantly served in Virginia Beach Fire Department. Affectionately known as “Duke” he succumbed to cancer on August 5, 2008. He spent the greater part of his career serving on “B” shift at Stations 2, 21 and 11. His final assignment was Company 6 “C”. He medically retired on June 30,2008.

He was well known for his love of food and his kind heart, always willing to help others and his dedication to family both at home and in the fire service.

Edward Spencer Mizell
Passed in 2007

Mizell became employed with the City of Portsmouth on December 29, 1959. He tried various occupations before finding his true calling-the fire service. He held positions at the City Garage, City Assessor’s Office and even the Police Department but it was the fire service that claimed his heart and on October 14th, 1963 his journey as a career firefighter began.

His career spanned over 40 years . He served on Engine and Ladder Companies and for 15 years as an aide to Battalion Chief C.E.White. After a p;romotion to Lieutenant in 1990 he began serving on the Haz Mat team. He became Captain in 1997.

Mizell was recognized from then Governor Mark Warner for his work and dedication to the PASS Reading Program.

Cecilia Turnbough
October 13,1966-November 9,2008

Turnbough was born in California. In 1999, Turnbough along with her spouse and children settled in Dale City. In May of the year 2000,she joined the Dale City Volunteer Fire Department. She faithfully served 8 years as Anb EMT-B and preceptor.

At the time of her death, she was a Guest Services Representive and Accountant for the Mount Vernon Ladies Association. Turnbough used her skills as a First Responder at the Mount Vernon Estate.

Governor Kaine in his remarks at the memorial said, “ The scripture was quoted in earlier remarks… That greater love hath no man that he lay down his life for his friends…I say there even a higher love…laying down your life for a stranger…” .

The event was held at the Richmond Raceway Complex.

Processional: Bagpipes by St. Andrews Legion

Presentation of Colors:Virginia Public Safety Honor Guard

Pledge of Allegiance: W.G. Shelton Jr., Executive Director Virginia Department if Fire Programs

National Anthem: Israel Medina, Master Firefighter,Virginia Beach Fire Department

Invocation: Reverend Bruce Gray Richmond Fire and Emergency Services

Song: “The Rising” Susan Greenbaum

Prayer: Paster Pete Hypes Chesterfield Fire and EMS

Eulogies: Offered by department members

Introduction of Governor Kaine: The Honorable John W. Marshall, Director of Public Safety

Remarks: Governor Tim Kaine

Poem: Kaylin Breeden “Brother will you weep for me”
Song: “ This Life” Susan Greenbaum