In Memoriam - Line of Duty Deaths

Edward W. Turner

Chief of Department
July 12, 1960

On July 12, 1960, Chief Edward Turner was the first Westmont firefighter to die while in the performance of his duty. At a smoky working fire at 91 Emerald Avenue, our Chief suffered a heart attack and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Daniel R. DiPaolo

Firefighter
October 11, 1967

On October 11, 1967, Firefighter Daniel DiPaolo was killed in the line of duty while operating at a working fire at the Van Sciver Mansion. This site is now the Westmont Plaza Shopping Center. Firefighter DiPaolo was buried by a collapse of a brick wall and was dug out by fellow firefighters. Daniel passed away shortly after his arrival at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden.

J. Elmer Hoss

Firefighter
September 18, 1970

On September 18, 1970, Firefighter Elmer Hoss died while in the performance of his duty. Moments after delivering a sick resident to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, while returning to town in the ambulance, Firefighter Hoss suffered a heart attack. Returning to the hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

When I am called to duty, God

Whenever flames may rage,

Give me strength to save some life,

Whatever be its age.

Help me to embrace a little child

Before it is too late,

Or save an older person from

The horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert and

Hear the weakest shout,

And quickly and efficiently

To put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling

And give the best in me

To guard my every neighbor

And protect their property.

And if according to your will

I have to lose my life,

Please bless with your protecting hand

My children and my wife.