The Prescott Fire Department, on behalf of the group responsible for the annual “19” installation on Badger (“P”) Mountain, is honored to announce that those responsible for initiating and maintaining the installation have decided that the intent of the display is now firmly and fittingly commemorated at the Granite Mountain Hotshot Tribute installation of Prescott at the Courthouse Square. Therefore, the group feels it is time to let the “19” installation on “P” mountain come to an end. The anonymous group includes dedicated community members, former hotshots, and some of the family members of the 19.
According to the group, the “19” installation on “P” mountain was created to show deep respect and honor for the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot crew and epitomize the spirit of “I’ve got your six.” The “19” symbolized the crew’s silent commitment to fighting valiantly and was an enduring example of bravery, brotherhood, and selflessness.
Over the years, the group made this gesture quietly, allowing the tribute to speak for itself without fanfare. This supports the ethos of the GMIHC and hotshots everywhere. The group’s decision reflects their perspective that the crew’s spirit and memory are now forever enshrined in a place of prominence where the community can gather, reflect, and honor their sacrifice throughout the year. This allows the spirit of the “19” installation to be reflected in the memorial in the courthouse square thereby ensuring their legacy lives on in the hearts of all who visit.
“The Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot crew will always be remembered for their bravery and camaraderie, serving as an inspiration to all,” said Prescott Fire Chief Holger Durre. “The City of Prescott and the Prescott Fire Department are dedicated to honoring the legacy of the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot crew and strive to uphold the values of bravery, brotherhood, and selflessness they embodied. We support the group’s decision to transition this legacy to the memorial in Courthouse Square. I want to express our gratitude to all of the group members responsible for placing the 19 on “P” Mountain for the last 10 years.”
In order to honor the wishes of the committee, we will not be able to take further questions or comment further about this.
