Phoenix firefighter found dead at Arizona National Guard base
Jul 8, 2018, 3:19 PM | Updated: Jul 9, 2018, 9:14 am
(Phoenix Fire Department)
(Phoenix Fire Department)
PHOENIX – A Phoenix firefighter was found dead in his sleeping quarters at the Arizona Army National Guard base, the department announced in a release on Sunday.
According to Cpt. Rob McDade of the Phoenix Fire Department, the death of 46-year-old Juston Doherty was “sudden,” as he was found deceased Saturday while on active military maneuvers for the Arizona Army National Guard.
Doherty was a 15-year veteran of the department, and also served as a Technical Rescue Technician at Station 45 in Phoenix.
“Juston was also a highly-decorated Captain in the U.S. Army,” McDade said in a release. “Juston had a long and decorated military career. He was an Army Ranger and Airborne School graduate.”
Doherty served in two combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, receiving numerous commendations and medals — including the Bronze Star Medal, which is awarded for heroic achievements and service.
Following his deployments, Doherty continued to serve as a member of the Army reserves while being a full-time firefighter, according to McDade.
“Juston Doherty was a cherished and decorated ‘larger than life’ member of the Phoenix Fire Department,” McDade said. “His sudden passing creates a void in our family that will be difficult to overcome.
“His energy, spirit and commitment to service was an invaluable asset to our membership and will be greatly missed.”
Along with his decorated military career, Doherty also received honors as a firefighter.
Doherty was a recipient of the Phoenix Fire Department’s Medal of Valor for his heroic actions. While off-duty, Doherty entered a burning apartment to save children who were trapped inside.
As a result, Doherty suffered serious burns during the incident, but saved the children’s lives.
No information regarding the cause of Doherty’s death was immediately available.
