Captain Vernon Collett of the Johnson County Fire Protection District was honored alongside nine other Missouri firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty at the annual Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial ceremonies in Kingdom City.
Events began Saturday, Oct. 4, with a candlelight service and continued Sunday, Oct. 5, with a formal memorial service at the Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial. In addition to the 10 firefighters being honored who died in the line of duty, 94 others who have passed away were also recognized.
Collett, who died in the line of duty on March 8, 2025, while battling a natural cover fire, was a 29- year veteran of the District and the first line of duty death in its history. He served out of the District’s Station 6 near Valley City serving as a Captain since 2011. His name has now been permanently inscribed on the Wall of Honor at the Memorial, which commemorates all Missouri firefighters who have given their lives in service.
The memorial service included proclamations from Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, the solemn sounds of pipes and drums, the ringing of the bell, Taps, and presentations to family members of the fallen. Chief Russell Hobbs of the Tri-County Fire Protection District in Richland, delivered remarks. Chief Hobbs, who lost his father, Chief Rick Hobbs, in a 2021 line of duty death, spoke on the legacy and sacrifice of Missouri’s firefighters.
The Missouri Fire Fighters Memorial in Kingdom City serves as the state’s official tribute to Missouri firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Each October, the Fire Fighters Memorial Foundation hosts the annual candlelight and memorial services, providing time for families, colleagues, and communities across Missouri to honor and remember those who served with courage and dedication.
“Captain Collett’s name is forever etched on the Wall of Honor, standing as a reminder of his commitment and sacrifice,” said Johnson County Fire Protection District Chief Larry Jennings. “His service and legacy will continue to inspire our district and our community.”
For more information on the service, visit www.mofirememorial-museum.org.
Release courtesy of the Johnson County Fire Protection District.
