It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Jimmy Polarek, who tragically suffered a traumatic brain injury while camping with friends over the holiday weekend. His unexpected loss leaves a profound void at Morgan Fire and in the community he served with unwavering dedication. Jimmy was the kind of person who was always the first to offer a helping hand, touching countless lives through his service in the fire department, his involvement in the 4-H community, and his work with the IUOE Local 150 Operators Union.

Jimmy's legacy of selflessness will continue to impact lives through his decision to be an organ donor, ensuring that even in his passing, he brings hope and life to others. As we navigate this difficult time, we ask that you keep Jimmy's family in your thoughts and prayers. Rest easy, Jimmy. Your brothers and sisters will carry on your legacy from here.

Members of the Stillman Fire Protection District and the broader Ogle County community are rallying to support two of our own, who now face a battle that no firefighter ever expects—one against cancer.

Whitney Trosper Anderson, a dedicated firefighter, has been diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She is embarking on an arduous journey of 16 rounds of aggressive chemotherapy over the next 8 months. In addition, Dariusz Warzocha, another brave firefighter who had previously conquered an aggressive form of Leukemia, is now facing a heartbreaking recurrence of the disease, which has returned with a vengeance, leaving him unexpectedly hospitalized.

Whitney and Dariusz have devoted their lives to keeping our Ogle County community safe, embodying the selfless spirit that defines the firefighter profession. Now, it's our turn to stand by them in their time of need. These courageous individuals have put their lives on the line countless times, and now they need our help as they confront these formidable battles with cancer.

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.