6/16/2026: Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day Remarks

Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day Remarks

June 16, 2026

Good afternoon. Each year, we gather, as a community, to remember those who gave their lives in service for all of us - in service of our state. As Governor, I have the privilege of participating in these ceremonies, an opportunity for us to honor the sacrifices made by brave individuals and their families. Though they are no longer with us, their spirits, their legacies, remain with us.

Portland Fire & Rescue Retired Captain Jim Bieker passed away from Thyroid cancer in 2023. He joined Portland Fire & Rescue in 1981 and retired in 2023 after putting in 38 years in the fire service. He left behind his wife, four children, and four grandchildren at the time of his passing.

Sutherlin Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Merlino passed away from Thyroid cancer and left behind his wife, his family, and his brother. He spent 30 years serving his community at departments across Douglas County, where he was regarded for his work ethic and skillset. His community showed an outpouring of support during his battle with cancer as well as after his passing.

As we hear more about their stories, let us be a collective community that stands behind and supports their surviving family members, friends, and colleagues.

Whether you lost a loved one recently, or if their absence has been felt for a long time, each stage of grief has a place in today's ceremony. I hope that today's ceremony, and the public safety community who look out for one another, brings you solace through this difficult time.

It's difficult to recognize that cancer took the lives of these three firefighters.

I'm proud to have supported the great work the firefighter community has done to ensure that firefighters who experience greater rates of cancer can access the benefits and support they deserve. But there's more work to do, and I will continue to show up for all of you.

Each of the names on the wall represents a chair at a dinner table that's now empty. A parent who won't be there to watch their kids or grandkids grow up. A friend whose presence is deeply missed.

Behind each name is a story of service, community, loss, and remembrance. In remembering them today, we recommit ourselves to action in support of their calling.

I'll just close by saying that Oregon is on the verge of a potentially challenging fire season. It may test us to our limits. Many of you will deploy to the front lines to protect communities, critical infrastructure and natural resources. I want to thank our firefighters and all our first responders for their service in the months ahead.

Again, it's an honor to be with you today.