Texas LODD Task Force

Firefighter Larry Marusik of the Ellinger Fire Department passed away Friday, March 23rd after being burned while battling a wildfire on March 10. Marusik, 68, grew up in Fayette County and after he retired returned to the area and volunteered at Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department. Marusik was assisting on a large brush fire earlier this month when he was severely burned. He was transported to Brooke Army Medical Hospital. Public visitation will be held on March 27th from 5pm

First responders (fire fighters, police, EMTs, ER staff and others) are recognized as being at significant risk for developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our risks are increased not only by the potential for experiencing traumatic events but are also due to the extremely stressful and draining nature of our work. Career and personal burnout are often the precursors to these conditions but seem to be viewed as inevitable. We’re held to higher standards than the general pu