While Anderson was being removed, additional personnel successfully reached the two victims and removed them safely from the water.

After Anderson was removed from the water, medical care was initiated by fire and EMS personnel. He was eventually transported by Lifeflight to Cleveland Metro Hospital.  Resuscitation efforts at the hospital were unsuccessful.

Al "Buz" Anderson was 47 years old. He served on the Wellington Fire District's Dive Rescue team for four years and was a trained swift water rescue diver with fifteen years experience. Buz was married to his wife Julie for 20 years and had four children.

This is the third Line of Duty death for the Wellington Fire District in its 125 year history and first in thirty years. The firefighters and Board of Trustees of the Wellington Fire District extend their sincere sympathy to the Anderson family and want it known that their brother died a hero.

A memorial fund has been established for the family at:

The Farmers Savings Bank

502 South Main Street
PO Box 438
Wellington, Ohio  44090

The Allan "Buz" Anderson, Jr. Memorial Fund, #210621369

Funeral and visitation services are as follows:

Visitation:  Monday, June 26, 2006

1pm-3pm, 5pm-8pm
Wellington High School
629 North Main Street
Wellington, Ohio

Full Honor Service:  Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Written and photos by Wellington Fire District

Related Links

• United States Fire Department Directory (26,955)
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• Ohio Fire Rescue News
• Ohio AFG Award Announcements