Sr. Chaplain Les Palmer’s Celebration of Life:

On Thursday, April 26th, several members of the IFOC Board of Directors had the distinguished honor of attending the final celebration of Sr. Chaplain Lt. Col. Les Palmer. Sr. Chaplain Palmer was given a Fire Fighters Last Alarm tribute to his home church Calvary of Albuquerque. His remains were transported in a special Fire Truck used specifically for Fire Fighters and their family members last ride to their final resting place.

His wife Sr. Chaplain Debbie Palmer and children had the privilege of riding along with him for this, his last ride. The procession snaked through Albuquerque from the far west side fire house #27 to the church escorted by Albuquerque’s Fire Department Chaplains, members of the Albuquerque Police Chaplains Corps and four IFOC Board members.

The procession wound its way through Albuquerque with a full police escort, lights and sirens all the way. Upon arrival at the church, an honor guard consisting of uniformed Chaplains from the Albuquerque Regional Community Chaplain Corps met the procession. The honor guard consisted of two columns of Chaplains from the parking lot to the church entry. The procession was led into the church by two bagpipers.

At the front of the sanctuary was a very elaborate pictorial depiction of Sr. Chaplain Palmer’s life, his many certifications including his IFOC credentials. The eulogies spoke of a very godly man, who’s life focused around Jesus Christ, and how he gave his everything to the help of others. The sanctuary was packed with family, friends, Chaplains and members of the community.

Sr. Chaplain Palmer was truly a humble towel-bearing servant of God, who loved helping others. He was a Chaplain’s Chaplain who never would take tribute for all he has accomplished. He was always passing off the glory to God, and to the fine work of the members of his Chaplain Corps.

After the service, the family of Calvary Church, where he served as a staff pastor, held a celebration meal. At the meal, they had several mounted photos of Les that everyone was able to write a tribute on. In reading some of the many tributes, they all spoke of a man who changed lives, and mentored many in their walk with the Lord.

Although Sr. Chaplain Palmer has gone home to be with God, his legacy will live on forever in the many hearts he has touched along the way. He will be greatly missed by all, but through all of his Corps, his work will continue on. Rest in peace dear, dear friend, and we will see you again one day.