Senate Resolution No. 44
(By Senators White, Laird, Edgell, Plymale, Unger, Kessler,
Stollings, Wells and Williams)
Memorializing Nicholas County firefighters Johnnie Hammons and
Timothy Nicholas, who were killed in the line of duty.
Whereas, Firefighting is a dangerous profession that takes the
lives of nearly 100 firefighters nationally each year; and
Whereas, Despite the meticulous training received by our
fighters, dangerous situations often arise that trap them in
structures and in forest fires; and
Whereas, On February 20, 2009, Lieutenant Johnnie Hammons and
Firefighter Timothy Nicholas of the Craigsville Volunteer Fire
Department responded to a mobile home fire on Route 20 near
Craigsville; and
Whereas, It appears there was a roof collapse, trapping
Lieutenant Hammons and Firefighter Nicholas inside; and
Whereas, Sadly, Lieutenant Johnnie Hammons and Firefighter
Timothy Nicholas perished in the blaze; and
Whereas, Their passing not only brought to mind the dangerous
profession of firefighting, but also the dedication and commitment
to community service of volunteer firefighters; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the Senate hereby memorializes Nicholas County firefighters Johnnie Hammons and Timothy Nicholas, who were killed
in the line of duty; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Senate commends all firefighters
who place themselves in harm's way for the safety and welfare of
our communities in West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward
a copy of this resolution to the families of Lieutenant Johnnie
Hammons and Firefighter Timothy Nicholas.