The Last Alarm

The Last Alarm
The Fire Service is steeped in many traditions 
through out its long history

In the past as Firefighters began their tour of
duty, it was the bell that signaled the beginning
of the days shift.

Through out the day and night each alarm was
sounded by a bell, which summoned these 
brave souls to fight fires, and place their lives
in jeopardy for the good of the people they 
were trusted to protect.

And when the fire was out , and the alarm had 
come to an end, It was the bell that signaled to
all that the task was completed and the Fire-
Fighters were returning to quarters.

When one of their own had made the supreme 
sacrifice it was the bell that solomnly announced
their passing. To symbolize this devotion and loss
a special signal of:

Three rings
Three times

representing the completion of their duties and 
they are returning to their quarters.

And now Ken Parks has completed his tasks
his duties are done
he has given his best
for husband ,brother and friend
with 32 years of service
last assignment 
Portland Fire Rescue
engineer , driver, 
and pilot of Fire Boat 3

His last alarm was
sounded 6 Sept 2009