Thomas P. Grady, Pilot

On the night of July 24, 1977, while supporting firefighting operations on the Middle Fire, a 3,800-acre wildfire in the Angeles National Forest, Thomas Grady was tragically killed in the line of duty. During a nighttime landing at Mill Creek Heliport, the Bell 205 helicopter he was piloting collided mid-air with a U.S. Forest Service Bell 212. The accident seriously injured his co-pilot, Theodore Hellmers, and the two pilots of the other aircraft.

Thomas Grady proudly served his country with the United States Army before continuing his career in aviation with Air America, Inc. From May 29, 1968, to June 30, 1975, he worked as a rotary-wing aircraft pilot based out of Saigon, South Vietnam.

Following his service overseas, Grady returned home and became a dedicated helicopter pilot for the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Thomas P. Grady gave his life in service to others. He is remembered for his bravery, commitment, and sacrifice.