08/17/2026
IAFF Local 1348 members have been extremely busy and extremely heartbroken over this past week. The extreme flooding of many sections of our community, combined with the unimaginable tragic loss that one of our members and his family are now faced with, has made for trying times.
We constantly see citizens of our community and families on their worst days. What makes our jobs even more mentally challenging is when tragedy hits within our brotherhood and sisterhood. Brotherhood isn’t just a catchphrase to firefighters. As firefighters living together for up to a third of the year, we become family. A lot of times we begin this job as young men and women, and we watch our fellow brother’s families come together and grow throughout our careers. Celebrating births, birthdays, sports, academic achievements, and much more.
As with all families, some members naturally become leaders. Not just through rank but through actions. Captain Kelly Morey is one of those brothers….a “big brother” to many. Captain Morey and his family are the best among us as a community, both on the job and off. There are no words to be spoken or actions to be made that will make this new journey without Matthew any easier. Those of us who have been around MFD for any length of time got to know and watch Matthew grow into a wonderful young man. We got to watch him grow, compete in his athletic career, and most recently his high school graduation. It is definitely evident the impact Matthew had on so many lives from the outpouring of love and support being shown. He will be missed and remembered.
We ask that through their strong faith combined with time, that Kelly, Angie, Hannah, and the extended Morey family are allowed to rise up to meet the pain they are now experiencing. In the meantime the brotherhood will be there.
Much love.
