CLEARFIELD – Mourners filed into seats in the Florian Banquet Hall of Clearfield last night to remember one of their own who passed from this life one year ago.
Jeffrey Buck Jr. was critically injured in the line of duty March 3, 2015 doing what he was called to do – fight fires and protect the community.
Six days later, he went from this life to the next, leaving behind friends and family and his yet-to-be-born son, Landen.
Last night firefighters and other emergency responders from around the county and members of the community gathered to remember Buck, his life, his legacy and to remind each other of the value of what they do.
The Rev. Gary B. Jewart led the service, noting that we live in dangerous times and things happen quickly and unexpectedly. He said now is the time to take a moment and pay tribute to Buck and support his family, sharing fond memories of the person they knew and love.
Lawrence Township Fire Chief Elliott Neeper then spoke and quoted John 15:13 of the Holy Bible: “Greater love hath no man than this: that he lay down his life for his friends.” Neeper noted that Buck made the ultimate sacrifice and asked that everyone remember his sense of duty.
He read the definition of a hero from Merriam-Webster’s dictionary: “a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities; one who shows great courage.” Neeper said firefighters are admired for these traits, and Buck placed himself at risk for others. “He would have moved heaven and earth to prevent disaster or save a life,” he said.
Neeper thanked the family for their sacrifice, “You are not alone,” he reminded them. Then, to the greater audience, he said that nothing can replace those who volunteer and sacrifice their time and talents and, occasionally, themselves.
He emphasized how important it is to have people who volunteer for others. He concluded by saying how honored and humbled those at Station No. 5 are by the turnout of fire companies and the community.
A video of photos of Buck was shown and then the sound of the fire call on March 3, 2015. The video concluded with photos of Buck and his girlfriend and son.
Jewart then spoke briefly on the life of Buck, noting that everyone who knew him has struggled to redefine their lives. He said there is encouraging news, referring to scripture, especially Psalm 23.
The encouragement includes: You never have to walk alone, as God will walk it with you; it is a growing experience for everyone because we all learn more from the bad times than from the good; and we can recall the memories of Buck and no one can take them away from us, Jewart said, adding, “Our relationship does not end as we remember him.”
He then read a poem entitled “The Dash” by Linda Ellis and reminded everyone what Buck would say to them, “Don’t hold onto my death. Remember my life and I’ll we waiting for you at the gate.”
Jewart concluded with “A Fireman’s Prayer,” which he asked everyone to rise and read aloud.
“When I am called to duty, God
whenever flames may rage,
Give me the strength to save some life
Whatever be its age.
Help me to embrace a little child
Before it’s too late,
Or some older person
from the horror of that fate.
Enable me to be alert
And hear the weakest shout,
And quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out.
I want to fill my calling
and give the best in me,
To guard my neighbor
And protect his property.
And if according to Your will
I have to lose my life,
Please bless with Your protecting hand
My children and my wife.”
The evening concluded with a memorial ride through town to Interstate 80, the Woodland exit and with Station No. 5 arriving at Bradford Cemetery for a private service.