Honorees

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Year Honored
2003
Honoree
James D Geiger
Agency
Defiance Fire and Rescue Division
Agency City
Defiance
Agency State
OH
Last Call
2/19/00
Cause of Death
On-duty Cardiac
Biography
The rescue and fire station was draped in black with an American flag hanging from its right side. The lone pair of boots was placed in perfect line formation as the procession passed by carrying the body of the diligent emergency worker. The station saluted and seemed to make a statement, no more long hours, no more missed meals, no more hustle to rescue scenes. It is time for you to rest; you are going home.<br /> <br /> James D.Geiger, 55, of Defiance, Ohio, died of cardiac arrest on February 19, 2000 following a labor-intensive emergency call. Mr. Geiger had pulled into the driveway of his home when he suffered a heart attack. His agency was summoned to the home, with emergency care provided establishing an airway followed by CPR. Jim was immediately rushed to Defiance Hospital where he later passed away. Earlier he had participated in a sledding accident and had assisted with the victim removal from the sledding hill as well as administering care to the victim through the snow to the waiting rescue vehicle.<br /> <br /> Mr. Geiger had been a volunteer with the Defiance Fire and Rescue Division since 1973. He was a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician. "He was a good man, always ready to help and he cared so much for others," stated a friend.<br /> <br /> Honored 2003