nbspLine of Duty Death AnnouncementnbspdivbrdivdivnbspJames Doc BrooksdivdivbrdivdivIt is with deepest regrets that the Prince Georges County FireEmergency Medical Services EMS Department announces a Line of Duty Death LODD. nbspJames Doc Delbert Brooks a 20-year volunteer member of the Department passed away on Wednesday January 15 2014 after suffering a medical emergency while on duty the previous week. nbspDoc Brooks 62 years-old was a resident of Camp Springs Maryland.divdivbrdivdivOn Monday January 6 Brooks a member of the Prince Georges Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue was winterizing the boats and station in preparation of record low temperatures forecasted for the following day. nbspShortly after midnight while still at the Marina located in Fort Washington he experienced difficulty breathing and called 911. nbspFirefighters and paramedics arrived to find Brooks in cardiac arrest and immediately began pre-hospital care. nbspHe was transported to a nearby medical facility and subsequently relocated to Medstar at Washington Hospital Center in critical condition.divdivbrdivdivDoc Brooks was surrounded by his wife family members and colleagues throughout his time in the hospital. nbspJan Demeritt Deputy Chief of the Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue also maintained a constant vigil and was at his bedside when he passed. nbspOn behalf of the Brooks family I want to thank everyone for their continued support during this difficult time said Demeritt.divdivbrdivdivPrince Georges County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated This is indeed a dark time for the Department in particular the Volunteer Marine Fire Rescue as we mourn the passing of a friend and colleague. nbspBrooks was concerned about how the cold weather would affect the rescue boats and the barge that serves as their station. nbspHe wanted to ensure their readiness in the event they were called to duty.divdivbrdivdivA memorial service with full fire department honors is currently being planned. nbspArrangements will be provided as soon as they are available.divdivbrdivpp
