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Our Lady of the Angels (OLA) School Fire, December 1, 1958

"A Great and Indescribable Tragedy"

Fireman Richard Scheidt carries the lifeless body of 10-year-old John Jajkowski out of the fire-ravaged school soon after the fire is brought under control. The heart-breaking job of removing the young victims has begun.

This photograph became the defining image of the Our Lady of the Angels fire, seen around the world, and made into a moving fire prevention poster.

John was an accomplished musician - he played the accordion and sang in the boy's choir. He planned to be a priest.

Photo ©1958, Life Magazine

Famous Steve Lasker photo of fireman Richard Scheidt carrying the body of 10-year-old John Jajkowski from the ravaged school

John Jajkowski, Jr.