The National Fire Dog Monument (NFDM) is a nationally approve 501(c)3 non-profit created to building a bronze monument dedicated to all Certified Accelerant Detection K-9’s (arson dogs) as a way to acknowledge their service to the communities where they serve. These dogs do not ask for anything in return after risking their lives to reduce the negative impact of arson in their communities.
The monument is inspired by Colorado’s first arson dog – Erin. Her handler, Agent Jerry Means with the Colorado Bureau of Investigations created the monument when Erin passed away May 2010 from cancer. Agent Means wanted to recognize the tireless contributions arson dogs make in arson investigations. The monument design is a standing fire fighter looking down on his canine partner, who is looking back up at his handler ready to work. The monument is titled “From Ashes to Answers”.
The life-size bronze statue is the work of artist and sculptor Austin Weishel. The 22 year old specializes in bronze sculptures and monuments. Austin is also a firefighter with the Windsor Fire Department in Colorado. You can see more of Austin’s work at his website – Honorable Sculptures.
The bronzing process for the monument is being completed by Bronze Services Fine Art Foundry in Loveland, Co and will be ready for transportation to our nation’s capitol in June 2012. The monument will reside in the D.C. Fire & EMS Museum until its permanent placement outside of Fire Station #3 (just blocks from the U.S. Capitol building) in late 2012/early 2013.
