Print Newsletter

The BackStoppers serves 18 counties in Missouri and Illinois. Because our coverage area extends beyond St. Louis, we rely on groups of supporters who volunteer their time in the outlying counties. These Outlying County Supporter Groups are integral to the growth of our cause. We […]

Since 1987, Budweiser Guns ‘N Hoses has honored fallen heroes by bringing together local firefighters and police officers for an evening of boxing and support for BackStoppers. Since that first ring of the bell, Guns ‘N Hoses has raised $7.6 million for BackStoppers and has […]

Firefighter Paramedic Bradley Pierce died in the line of duty on August 6, 2000 while training for the St. Charles Fire Department’s health and wellness program. He left behind is expectant wife, Deanna, and his 19-month old son, Wyatt, who is now a young adult. […]

In September of 1959, the mission of The BackStoppers was birthed. The objective of assisting families of fallen first responders was established but was hoped to never need to be utilized. Four months later, the organization’s response to a line of duty death became a […]

The decade and The BackStoppers’ 60th Anniversary are nearing an end. Recognizing sixty years of serving families of fallen heroes has been an honor. In 1959, our initial contribution to a family was $1,000 and today we present $10,000 immediately following the loss of their […]

May 3, 2019 marked the 17th anniversary of the deaths of the St. Louis Fire Department’s Capt. Derek Martin and Capt. Robert Morrison. Both brave men lost their lives battling the same fire and leaving behind their spouses and children. Today their children have reached […]

Officer James ReifschneiderSt. Louis County Police Dept.EOW 4/30/1977 On April 30, 1977, St. Louis County Police Officer James Reifschneider was conducting a traffic stop when he was struck by a motorist and killed, leaving behind his wife, Sue Reifschneider, and their three children.  The BackStoppers immediately began assisting the Reifschneider […]

The second issue of The BackStoppers Newsletter has mailed!  Read about three families who've benefited from The BackStoppers' assistance, a local firefighter who's giving back and going pro, and more in Volume 1, Issue 2. We wish to thank Jerry Kiske, Jr and Mulligan Printing, Firefighter Dave Marlo and […]

The first issue of The BackStoppers Newsletter is in the mail!  We wish to thank Jerry Kiske, Jr and Mulligan Printing, Firefighter Dave Marlo and the Professional Firefighters of Eastern Missouri IAFF Local 2665, and Heather Hussey for making our first edition possible. Front and Back Cover Inside Pages If […]