Dateline: October 11, 2007

McMorries remembered among fallen fireman

The late James McMorries of Howardwick was one of 92 fallen firemen honored during ceremonies conducted by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Sunday in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

The three-day event, attended by McMorries’ widow, Tanis, was held for the firefighters’ families and was a time to remember lost loved ones and share common experiences. In addition to a parade, dinner, a candlelight service, and other activities, a plaque was unveiled with names of all the honorees who fell in 2006.

Locally, a flag lowering service was held at Howardwick City Hall, and Mayor H.L. Baird issued a proclamation calling on all citizens to observe October 5-7, 2007, in recognition of the efforts of fire and emergency personnel both past and present.

McMorries was one of three Howardwick firemen injured when their truck turned over while battling the Interstate 40 Wildfire on March 12, 2006. He succumbed to his injuries and passed away nearly a month later.