The public is invited to attend a memorial service to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the “line of duty” death of East Pierce Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Dan Packer.

The event is planned for 3 p.m. July 26 at East Pierce Fire and Rescue headquarters station, 18421 Old Buckley Hwy. in Bonney Lake.

Packer died July 26, 2008, while fighting a California wildfire. He was deployed to the Panther Fire south of Happy Camp in Siskiyou County in northern California to assume a supervisory position in the firefighting effort.

Packer was a member of a Washington state-based incident management team and was deployed to major incidents, most frequently large wildland fires.

Guests are encouraged to park at Pierce Transit’s Park and Ride facility at 184th Avenue East and Sky Island Drive in Bonney Lake. A free shuttle to and from the fire station will be provided.

In honor of Packer, Bonney Lake Mayor Neil Johnson will dedicate a newly constructed pond, water fountain and bench.

Also planned is the dedication of the Chief Dan Packer Walk of Honor, which will pay tribute to firefighters, emergency services personnel and citizens who have volunteered their time and service to the community. Refreshments will be provided after the ceremony.

All are welcome to celebrate Packer’s life by contributing stories, memories and photographs at www.mem.com.