11:10 AM CDT on Monday, July 10, 2006

KVUE News

One of Austin's most respected firefighters was laid to rest over the weekend.

Willie Ray Davis was one of three African-Americans hired by the Austin Fire Department more than 50 years ago.

It was a first for the department as well as the state.

Many say Davis was their role model and mentor.

"He knew I put in an application. He came by and talked to me and told me what's going to be expected of me and what I should expect," said Larry McKee, retired AFD arson investigator. "He's an inspiration to African-Americans in this department and around the state also."

Captain Davis was also instrumental in launching AFD's "Pass the Torch" academy, which gives African-American men and women hands-on fire service experience.