Request to Remember
and be Proactive!
In
North Dakota last week, a Battalion Fire Chief took his own life …and his
friends wanted us to share some details with you. Here is one example of a
request to honor BC Olson and to be alert to help our brothers and sisters in
pain BEFORE it’s too late. Please pass it on!!!
Billy,
Here is yet another example of how we need to keep a watchful eye on our
brothers and sisters and encourage participation in debriefings and employee
assistance programs to help keep a healthy mind especially after significant
incidents. It is tough to see a husband, father of three, and fellow
firefighter lose the mind battle. Too many times we are struck reactively
when it is too late and ponder what could have been done to keep our brother
alive. Just thought you may be able to do some good with this. Take
care and be safe.
Battalion
Fire Chief Daniel L. Olson, 42, Bismarck, died Dec. 1, 2012. Dan died after
taking his own life. He was born in 1970. Dan deeply cared for his career as a
firefighter. Dan first became a volunteer Firefighter in Berthold, later served
as a professional at the Minot FD from 1996-99, and became a Firefighter with
the Bismarck FD in 1999. Dan was currently serving as Battalion Chief, a
tremendous honor he had just received in 2012. Dan was also a part of the
North Dakota National Guard. Dan proudly served his country with the
North Dakota National Guard 957 MRBC in Iraq from 2003 to 2004 and in Kosovo
from 2009 to 2010. Dan was currently Master Sergeant in the 164 Engineer HHC.
Dan will always be remembered for his courage during difficult times, and even
though he lost his battle with P.T.S.D. and took his own life, his family
and friends know he is at rest and peace.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Tanya; his daughters, Emilee, 16, and
Aimee, 13; his son, Kevin, 3; his mother, Adeline; his brothers, Aaron Olson
and Ron Olson; and an extended family,
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be shared with the Emilee, Aimee and
Kevin Olson Memorial Fund, Bremer Bank, 710 S. Washington St., Bismarck, N.D.
58504.
Friends may share condolences and memories with the family online at wwwbismarckfuneralhome.com. RIP.
