The City of Madison Common Council passed a resolution Tuesday night officially naming Engine 10 in honor and memory of Firefighter/Paramedic Richard Garner, Jr., who died suddenly on April 1, 2018.

Richard Garner joined the Madison Fire Department on September 24, 2012. He served as a firefighter/EMT at Fire Station 5 until moving to Fire Station 10 and becoming a paramedic in 2017.

In the five and a half years he was with the MFD, Garner made a profound impact on the department and forged countless relationships within the community. He was particularly passionate about working with and mentoring youth.

Now, a plaque bearing his name adorns the fire engine serving Madison's north side.

“Rick’s spirit will watch over all those that serve on that truck, and all the citizens that the truck will serve in the future,” said Firefighter Doug Johnson.

The resolution renaming Fire Engine No. 10 in honor of Garner’s dedicated service to the residents of the City of Madison and the City of Madison Fire Department reads:

WHEREAS, the City of Madison Fire Department and the Madison community lost a valued member on April 1, 2018 with the line of duty death of Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr.; and,

WHEREAS, Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr. made the ultimate sacrifice after providing emergency services to the community of the City of Madison; and,

WHEREAS, Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr. was hired as a firefighter on the 24th of September, 2012 and appointed to Paramedic on the 6th of June, 2017; and,

WHEREAS, he was assigned to the City of Madison Fire Station No. 10 on Madison’s north side, working diligently and tirelessly with his crew; and,

WHEREAS, Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr. was especially committed to leading and mentoring the youth within the community; and,

WHEREAS, his sense of humor, kindness, and energy enriched those fortunate enough to know and work with him, or receive his care; and,

WHEREAS, Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr. served the City of Madison residents with diligence, bravery, integrity, and compassion,

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Madison, Wisconsin, honors the memory of Richard Lance Garner Jr, mourns his death, and gratefully acknowledges his remarkable achievements, contributions, and service to the citizens of Madison; and,

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that Fire Engine No. 10, which is housed at Fire Station No. 10, 1517 Troy Drive, City of Madison, shall bear the name of Firefighter-Paramedic Richard Lance Garner Jr., in his memory and in honor of his dedicated service to the City of Madison residents and City of Madison Fire Department.