They say a man who loves his job never works a day in his life. That was Bruce. The man had an infectious smile, genuine friendliness and old-fashioned manners. He set his sights on becoming a first responder from an early age and never looked back. Harrolle had an unrivaled passion for life, adventure, teamwork and service. Flying as a medic was his passion.Bruce Harrolle, 36, of Mesa, Arizona, died in the line of duty on October 13, 2008. He was rescuing two stranded hikers on Bear Mountain who had become dehydrated and exhausted. Paramedic Harrolle was escorting one of the patients into the chopper when he was struck and fatally injured by one of the helicopter's rotor blades.Harrolle began his career with the Arizona Department of Public Safety in 1999 as a cadet officer and certified paramedic. After graduation, he was assigned to the department's elite Air Rescue Unit. He completed challenging search and rescue missions throughout Arizona with various pilots. He was the recipient of the department's prestigious Distinguished Service Award for his role in the Lewis Prison hostage situation in 2004.Bruce died doing what he loved. He wouldn't have had it any other way. He loved his family and was so proud of them.Honored 2009 |