On March 17, 1969, Firefighter Robert Parker was riding the tailboard of Engine 3 — the open rear step where firefighters once stood as they rode to an emergency — when the engine collided with another vehicle. He was thrown to the roadway and struck his head on the curb.
He never regained consciousness. Firefighter Parker remained in a coma until his death on May 10, 1969. He was 27 years old.
St. Petersburg Fire Rescue later ended the practice of riding the tailboard of an apparatus while responding to emergencies. Every firefighter who has since ridden safely inside the cab owes something to what was learned the day Robert Parker fell.
A photograph of Firefighter Parker has not yet been found. St. Petersburg Fire Rescue's historian continues to search for one, and if you knew him or have photographs or records to share, we would be grateful to hear from you.
Your support keeps the memorial standing and stands beside the families of those who gave everything.