Firefighter John Emerson Spangler

On October 30,1991 the Neon Fire Department was called to a forest fire that was endangering a structure.

Firefighters John Adams and John Emerson Spangler were among those who responded to the call. They had grown up together in the community of Mayking and were best friends.

Weather conditions that evening were very windy, which became a major factor regarding the fire. Due to the magnitude of the incident, several departments responded to assist.

A gas pocket built up in the area where Firefighters Adams, Spangler, and two others were working. It eventually erupted and the men were overtaken by flames.

Firefighter Adams outran the flames but turned to help Firefighter Spangler after he had fallen.

Firefighter Adams was flown to the U.K. Medical Center Burn Unit with burns over 90% of his body. He later died of his injuries. Firefighter Spangler died at the scene. His body was recovered the following day.

They were the first members lost in the line of duty since the Department was created in 1947.

The two firefighters working with them at the time received severe burns but recovered.