Flag Ceremony Held For LA County Fire Captain Who Died On Duty

EL MONTE, CA — Colleagues and family members of Los Angeles County Fire Department Captain Steven McCann, who died earlier this month after suffering a medical emergency while on duty, gathered Thursday for a flag ceremony to honor his memory.

The 10 a.m. ceremony was held at Fire Station 166, 3615 Santa Anita Ave., where McCann had been assigned.

A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. Friday at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, 22324 Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar.

During the brief ceremony on Thursday morning, family members and dozens of uniformed firefighters stood outside near the fire station's flagpole, where a large American flag that had been flying at half staff was raised to the top of the flagpole and then lowered and folded by an honor guard of firefighters.

Afterward, as bagpipers played "Amazing Grace," a firefighter solemnly carried the folded flag away from the ceremonial site, and an announcement was made that the flag would be presented to family members at Friday's memorial service. The flag ceremony then concluded.

McCann, a 16-year veteran of the fire department, died at a hospital after suffering a medical emergency on the evening of Feb. 9 at Fire Station 166, according to a Feb. 10 statement from Los Angeles County Firefighters Local 1014.

"Captain McCann passed away unexpectedly last night," Firefighters Local 1014 said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve's family and friends today."

According to the county fire department, McCann "suffered an unexpected medical emergency while on duty" at about 9:30 p.m. Feb. 9.

"He was subsequently transported to a local area hospital, where, we are saddened to announce, he passed away," county fire officials said.

The department later stated, "We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the entire McCann family during this difficult time."

In a statement on Feb. 10, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said:

``I extend my most heartfelt condolences to Captain McCann's family, friends and colleagues during this dark time. His service to our county's fire department will not be forgotten. His dedication to his life's work and sudden passing serve as a stark reminder of the deep thanks we owe the brave men and women who, like him, are always there to answer our calls for help during our times of greatest need. May he rest in peace."

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