COEUR d’ALENE — A wave of silence washed over the crowds that lined Sherman Avenue on Thursday morning as the procession in honor of Cd'A Fire battalion chief John Morrison made its way toward the Hagadone Event Center.

Mary Naccarato of Coeur d’Alene held an American flag and a hand to her heart as she watched the procession pass.

She reflected on the courage of Morrison, 52, as well as Frank Harwood, 42, a battalion chief with Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. Both were shot and killed June 29.

“They were so brave to go into a situation that put them at risk,” she said. “We can’t change what happened, we just have to keep supporting them.”

The procession of motor units, first responder vehicles, fire engines and buses carrying Morrison’s family, friends and department brothers and sisters was followed by a 90-minute private celebration of life.

Nearly 1,000 firefighters from across the nation and Canada attended the event, and more than 100 bagpipers and drummers performed.

Coeur d'Alene Fire Department Capt. Jake Bieker described the service as "very beautiful" to honor the life and legacy of Morrison.

Several people offered tributes to the man known for his deep love of family and commitment to his profession and those he worked with during his 28-year career.

"It was a great opportunity for friends and family to share stories," Bieker said.

He said remembering Morrison's positive attitude, sense of humor and ability to bring out the best in those around him led to smiles and laughter during the memorial service.

"These things, they're somber, but John was a guy who loved to laugh and loved to joke," Bieker said.

A procession and private celebration of life will be held today for Harwood, also at the Hagadone Event Center.

Many lining the procession route were still processing the act of violence that resulted in the loss of the two firefighters.

“It just doesn’t happen here in Coeur d’Alene,” Naccarato said.

Tyler Alvarado attended the procession with his friend, George Rohlinger, both of Coeur d’Alene. The men are active in the local CrossFit community, which is popular among first responders.

“We couldn’t not be here. Our hearts, prayers and thoughts go out to the surviving spouses and children,” Alvarado said. “That was somebody’s son, dad and husband.” 

A fire engine, carrying the casket of Coeur d'Alene Fire Department battalion chief John Morrison, proceeds down Sherman Avenue Thursday morning.

 

Crowds of people lined Sherman Avenue to watch the procession in honor of battalion chief John Morrison Thursday morning.

Mary Naccarato of Coeur d'Alene holds a flag as she watches the procession on Sherman Avenue.