Memorial Benches Installed for Fallen Firefighters
The 2026 Coeur d'Alene Leadership Class honored two battalion chiefs with new commemorative benches.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in People
The 2026 Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class installed two memorial benches to honor Battalion Chief Frank Harwood and Battalion Chief John Morrison. These leaders were tragically killed in an ambush on Canfield Mountain last year.
Why it matters
The benches serve as a lasting reminder of the service and sacrifice made by the two first responders in the local community. They provide designated spaces for reflection on the loss experienced by the city in 2025.
Two custom memorial benches were fabricated, powder coated, and installed through a local project collaboration. The effort involved contributions from four area businesses to ensure the project completion.
The players
Frank Harwood
He was a battalion chief who served the local fire department prior to his death.
John Morrison
He was a battalion chief who served the local fire department prior to his death.
The details
The benches were designed, fabricated, and powder coated locally by a consortium including Pacific Steel, CDA Fabrication, Andy's Heating & Cooling, and Iron Mountain Studios. Harwood's bench is situated at the Kootenai County Fire Department Training Center on Seltice Way, while Morrison's is located at the Fire Department Administration Building in downtown Coeur d'Alene.
Timeline
June 29, 2025: Frank Harwood and John Morrison died in an ambush.
October 9, 2026: The 2026 Leadership Class installed the memorial benches.
Market Landscape
This project reflects a broader trend of community-driven infrastructure improvements that honor local history and public service. By leveraging local manufacturing resources, the chamber aligns its corporate social responsibility goals with regional industry partnerships.
Residents can visit the new benches at the Kootenai County Fire Department Training Center or the Fire Department Administration Building to pay their respects. These locations are now open to the public as designated memorial sites for the community.
The takeaway
These memorial benches provide a permanent space for the city to honor its fallen first responders. Community members are encouraged to utilize these sites to reflect on the service and dedication of the two battalion chiefs.
What happens next
Dedication ceremonies for the newly installed memorial benches are expected to be held in the near future.
Further reading
Learn more about local community updates in the Coeur d'Alene People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Coeur d'Alene Press.
