Eight years ago our oldest son William died when the water bomber he was flying went down over a forest fire in northern Alberta, caught in a fire tornado. We were in total disbelief when we got the call, but now that the shock has long since worn off, we remember him proudly. He pursued his dreams to become a water bomber pilot, and he achieved that.
This is my favourite photo of William working, he was so proud to make it as a water bomber pilot.
And this is one of our best photos of Will relaxing, taken during one of the summers he spent on Haida Gwaii.
In the immediate months that followed William's death, we attended four memorial services, one in Ottawa, one in Alberta, and one in B.B., as well as the local service here. But the most memorable of those, and the one by which I will remember Will, was the one in Hinton Alberta, at the Hinton Training Centre.
This is the small memorial, nestled under the golden Trembling Aspen. Sadly it includes plaques for more than 20 firefighters.
And this is William's plaque.
In case you're interested, this is the small 'Fire Boss' water bomber that William flew. This was Will doing a demonstration at Lac Labiche in northern Alberta. This is the way I choose to remember him.
If you're interested in learning more you can review the tab labelled 'William' above. There is also a memories site site at forevermissed.com/william-hilts, with lots of photos.
william...a brave man who will be missed forever. i love seeing these pictures, i love that you and others keep his memory alive. you must be so proud of him, he is so handsome also, just like his dad!!
ReplyDeleteI was following you when this happened, and I cried then as I am now. It's such a great loss to the world. I can hardly believe it's been eight years. My heart goes out to all who grieve.
ReplyDeleteIt was a very sad day to lose William. Now you can only look back at the good times and achievements he made.
ReplyDeleteA truly sad rememberance day for you and Mrs FG.
ReplyDeleteA day to remember a well-loved son.
ReplyDelete" Time is too short for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity." William will always be remembered with so much love, your pride in his achievements, and that beautiful plaque.
ReplyDeleteThose who fly water bombers and bird dogs are a special breed. William's life and legacy are a testament to his strength and your pride in his accomplishments is well founded.
ReplyDeleteSeeing your son’s age is heartbreaking. He is but a beautiful memory away now. Take care, FG.
ReplyDeleteTime passes, but the memories live on. He chose a profession that matters.
ReplyDeleteThank you for helping me to remember William once again.
ReplyDeleteIt is such a tough anniversary. Remembering him with such honor is so good.
ReplyDeleteI remember seeing this day of memory of your son William who died while fighting fire in Alberta, Canada. Part of his job to save other people. Sorry for your loss but there are always good memories of your son. I heard there is fire in Alberta, Canada again. Sorry you have to go through that. I hope it ends soon. I have had pollen that is high in our area in Oregon. I wound up having an asthma attack early last Thursday morning. Not a good day for me but it did get some things figured out when it hospital. Life seems to change all of a sudden and I continue to live and breathe so far. Hope you and wife are doing ok where you live and all those around in your area. God bless and stay safe and healthy, Becky
ReplyDeleteI remember… so tragic. But he made a contribution in a way he found rewarding. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful tribute post, you must have so many good memories.
ReplyDeleteSending my good wishes to you and Mrs FG.
All the best Jan