Sergeant John Strawn Nutter
I was the Chief of the LFD the night Strawn died. It was one of the darkest days of my career. I will never forget the events of that night and the following days: The call that he was trapped and response to the scene; the trip on to the hospital; joining the mayor and chaplain to go to his home to notify Angela; the funeral; and meeting with Strawn's parents. Strawn was a courageous and honorable professional...a fine, outstanding person and firefighter. Strawn will always be missed by his family, the members of the LFD, and the entire community. Strawn was a man among men. To this day, he remains in my daily prayers.
I was working late watch in the (old) 5th District that night. I routinely monitored LFD (and EMS) on my scanner in my cruiser. I heard the call go out that EMS was transporting an injured Firefighter from the area of the old 3rd District to University Hospital via 7th Street to Chestnut. I happened to be at 7th and Broadway and immediately closed the intersection, shortly after, LPD dispatch began having the other beat cars in my district and the adjoining districts close the entire route so EMS could make the trip to UofL non-stop. I hated the feeling as the med unit passed my post, knowing the firefighter inside was critical. Even though I had never met Strawn, I remember the feeling when I learned he didn't make it. Thank you for your selfless service Sarge. Rest In Peace.
John was a friend who worked for me at the Living Well Fitness Center in St. Matthews. I moved to the West coast 25 yrs ago and lost touch with him. You were my friend John, and I will always remember you. "SEMPER FI" my friend.
Never forgotten.
Thank you. Rest in peace. You are not forgotten.
There is not a day that goes by when I don't think of you!!!
The world lost a good one
You were a good friend, thank you. My condolences go out to Larry, Nancy, and your folks.
Rest in peace Shawn. Best wishes to Larry and Nancy.
From brother to brother in the fire dept. You will be miss brother. Thanks for what you did with thew fire dept and alway look on us down here. DSFD
what a wonderful person. You were taken too soon...you will always be in our hearts