Honorees

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Year Honored
2006
Honoree
John Jeffrey Rook
Agency
Pafford EMS
Agency City
Hope
Agency State
AR
Last Call
2/19/05
Cause of Death
Ambulance Involved MVC
Biography
Each and every first responder deserves his own star for the work he performs. When a responder is lost in a line of duty death, it is an honor to be recognized for his lifesaving work. Secretary of State Roger Williams posthumously presented the "Star of Texas Award" to John Rook. Representative Williams stated, "Texas is a land filled with heroes, but none are more heroic than our first responders. They are among our greatest heroes, sacrificing their lives to ensure that the promise of our great nation will be fulfilled."<br /> <br /> John Jeffery "Jay" Rook, 23, was killed on February 19, 2005. He lost his life when the ambulance in which he was a passenger collided with a train. The accident sent the rescue vehicle into a spin, ejecting all three medics before landing in a ditch. John died at the scene along with his partners. The patient survived the accident.<br /> <br /> Mr. Rook was an emergency medical technician who had just received his license the week prior to his death. He was employed by Pafford EMS of Hope, Arkansas and had worked for them for about eight weeks. John was an Eagle Scout, a Boy Scout Leader, and a Police Explorer. He was also employed with Charitable Christian Medical Clinic in Hope. He enjoyed life, and loved working as a member of the Civil War Reenactments.<br /> <br /> Honored 2006