On September 25, 1978, Firestone Station Deputies Thomas “Tom” Fonte and Robert “Bob” Braman responded to a devastating fire at the Waymire Drum Manufacturing Company in Walnut Park. With approximately 40 workers trapped inside, the deputies repeatedly entered the smoke-filled, toxic building, carrying unconscious workers to safety. Their courage and selflessness saved numerous lives.

Both deputies suffered severe smoke inhalation and were later awarded the Medal of Valor for their heroic actions.

Deputy Fonte endured years of medical complications from his exposure and ultimately contracted AIDS following a contaminated blood transfusion during surgery. He passed away on October 2, 1990, at the age of 47. He was survived by his wife, Susan, and his children.

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