National EMS Memorial Service Honoree

	Billy A Gafford, Jr Birmingham Fire-Rescue Birmingham, AL

No matter what kind of mood you were in around him, he would always bring out a smile. Everything he did, not just the big stuff, but the common everyday things had something remarkable about them. There was gentleness in his spirit, a thoughtfulness that went out in everything he did and every word he spoke. "He is one man, a true leader, who will be missed tremendously," stated co-workers.

Bill Gafford, 56, of Birmingham, Alabama, died in the line of duty on April 25, 2007. Mr. Gafford was performing an annual fitness training exercise at the University of Alabama-Birmingham when he suffered a heart attack and collapsed. He was treated by other rescue members who were in at the training exercise and transported to the hospital where he later died.

Bill was the Captain of the Birmingham Fire and Rescue. He began his career as a Paramedic and Firefighter on April 30, 1984. He was a 23-year veteran with the department. He was also a volunteer serving as Fire Chief from 1989-1991 for the Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department. He had recently graduated from the Magic City Clown School in order to volunteer at local Birmingham Hospitals.

Captain Gafford was one great guy; he was always doing something worthwhile, something that would bring pleasure and happiness to others. "He lived life to its fullest," stated a friend and co-worker.

Honored 2008