LAFD Fire Station 27 was honored to be selected as the site for the 24th “R. Hero” in the Dalmatian Nation.

On 24 July, 2015 Councilmember David Ryu and Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell  joined LAFD Operations West Bureau Deputy Chief Joseph Castro and the members of Fire Station 27 in the dedication and unveiling of the R. Hero sculpture so generously provided by The Hero In You Foundation.                  

Bunni Benaron is a former elementary school teacher and daughter of a nurse who saw a need to recognize first responders in communities across the country.  Together with her husband Rick, they created The Hero In You Foundation with the mission of celebrating today’s heroes while inspiring the next generation of heroes.  

The Benaron’s worked with artists Aren and Tony Barone to develop the “R. Hero” sculptures.  The large scale, Dalmatian puppy represents the men and women who commit their lives to making their communities a better place.  R. Hero serves as a visual reminder and a way to start a conversation with children about the traits of a hero – respect, honor, bravery and compassion for others.

R. Hero also has an education component with a children’s book “R. Hero: A Dog’s Tale” that highlights how a puppy, Rocket, earned his Dalmatian spots through courageous actions. Also available are posters kids can use to show how they have “earned their spots” and create a cut out sculpture of their own R. Hero.

The LAFD is extremely fortunate to be host to not just one but two R. Hero’s.  In May, Fire Station 112 at the Port of Los Angeles unveiled the first sculpture.  We almost have a litter!

We are deeply grateful for the honor bestowed on our department by the Benaron’s and The Hero In You Foundation.  We strive to live up to the ideals represented by our shiny, bigger than life R. Hero. 

Please come visit either Fire Station 27 or Fire Station 112 and meet our newest friend.

For more information about the R. Hero program, please visit: www.r-hero.org