In a heartfelt memorial on July 17, family, friends and colleagues past and present came together to honor Daniel Foley, a beloved wildland firefighter on the Fremont-Winema National Forest. Foley, who was passionate about being a wildland firefighter, passed away July 9 after a routine preparedness activity. Before joining the Forest Service, Daniel worked at the Buffalo VA Hospital and served as a volunteer with the Twin District Volunteer Fire Company, an EMT for American Medical Response, and as a professional firefighter in Fauquier County, Virginia.

The memorial service was a testament to how many people Daniel profoundly impacted throughout his life. The Forest Service Honor Guard presented the colors in a touching ceremony followed by the wildland firefighter prayer, bell ceremony and last call.

Flags were flown at half-staff at U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service units across the Pacific Northwest Region on July 17, coinciding with the memorial service.

“Daniel chose a life of service that speaks volumes to who he was and where he came from,” said Jacqueline Buchanan, regional forester for the Pacific Northwest Region. “He will always be remembered as a part of our Forest Service family.”

Foley, born in 1996, was known for his dedication, infectious humor and compassion. He is survived by his fiancé Ayla Magliarditi and her son Devin, father Daniel Foley Sr., brother William W. Foley and sister Caitlin E. Foley.

Daniel’s obituary can be viewed here.