Tribute to Fallen Firefighter Donald Ray Lam, Jr.

A longtime Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) ranger and wildland firefighter, Donald Ray Lam, Jr., passed away on February 17 after a courageous battle to overcome injuries sustained while fighting a forest fire in western Kentucky last September.  Lam, 58, served as the forest ranger technician for Caldwell, Crittenden and Lyon counties and had assisted with fire suppression efforts on the local, state and national level for nearly 12 years.  He was also a member of Cedar Bluff Baptist Church and a U.S. Navy veteran.  Mr. Lam is survived by his wife, Jeannie Swatzell Lam; a brother, Ronald Lam of Goreville; a step-son, Dusty Cooper; and a step-daughter, Dakota Son.

“This tragedy is a tremendous loss to our organization,” said Leah MacSwords, director of the Kentucky Division of Forestry.  "When you think about what forest wardens do every day and the frequency in which they put themselves in harm's way for the protection of citizens and forest resources, it makes you realize the commitment and loyalty that make up their character.” 

Lam, who had been in critical condition since the accident occurred on September 7, received injuries while working the Scotts Chapel Road Fire—a 12-acre wildfire in Livingston County.  Lam was clearing a fire break for containment at the base of a bluff when a burning snag broke loose on top and rolled off striking him from behind.  The impact left him unconscious and with serious injuries including second degree burns. The Scotts Chapel Road fire initially spread from a burning brush pile during a county-wide burn ban and charges are currently pending for the person responsible for starting the fire.

“Our firefighters face serious risks during the line of duty and it is particularly unfortunate that this accident occurred while fighting a wildfire that was completely preventable,” said KDF Fire Management Chief Bernie Andersen. 
Don’s legacy is recognized by his family, friends and colleagues and he holds special honor in the firefighting community.  Remembrances and condolences were received from fire departments, state forestry agencies, the U.S Forest Service and firefighter organizations from across the county.

Tributes to honor Don and his family were also received across the state.  Governor Steve Beshear directed flags at all state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff on February 21 and offered the following comments, “Jane and I send our deepest condolences to the family of Donald Lam.  His courage and dedication to protecting our public safety is an example to us all. Let his life’s work and tragic death remind us of the extreme dangers of uncontrolled burning anywhere in the Commonwealth.  Don served the Caldwell County community, the state and volunteered for wildfire assignments across the nation.  His sacrifice for the protection of life and property is to be commended and honored.”  

The Kentucky House of Representatives also honored Don by approving a citation offered by Representative Mike Cherry.  Representative Cherry called Don a true hero in a very moving tribute.  Following approval of the citation, the entire chamber gave Don a standing ovation in acknowledgement of his service to the Commonwealth.  A Senate resolution offered by Senator J. Dorsey Ridley likewise honored Don’s dedication and service and recognized his heroic efforts.  

An account that has been established for Lam's survivors:

First Southern National Bank

Friends of Don Lam Account

P.O. Box 379

Princeton, Ky.  42445