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Jared Flanders, 11, rode his bike to a firefighter's wake to show his respects, even though he wasn't supposed to leave his house by himself.
Jared, who lives in Worcester, Mass., ultimately decided to defy his father's orders and go to firefighter Jon Davies' wake. He carefully put on a coat and tie, hopped on his bike and went down to the funeral home, about a mile away, reported NBC affiliate WHDH.com.
Jared didn't know the fireman, but he knows the pain of losing someone: His older half-brother fought in Iraq and died this summer, said Jared's dad, Gene Flanders, on his Facebook page.
"After what happened to my brother, I just -- I would feel bad for the other families and wanted to come support them," Jared told WHDH.com.
The firefighter, a 17-year veteran, died on Dec. 8 while battling a fire inside a triple-decker. He had been trying to rescue someone he thought was still trapped inside, local reports said. Firefighters and mourners across the area gathered at the funeral home to pay respects Wednesday evening, but pint-sized Jared stood out.
"He understood what the pain of the family was, and he wanted to come here and support the Worcester Fire Department and the family of Jon Davies, which to us says everything about the community of Worcester and its people," Chief Frank Diliddo of the Worcester Police Department told WHDH.com.
Jared said he wanted to express his gratitude.
NBC News
Jared Flanders, 11, with a firefighter at Jon Davies' wake on Wednesday.
"I wanted to say thanks for saving all those people. Thanks for trying so hard. We’ll all miss you," he told The Boston Herald. "I felt very bad for him — he was going to get married. The poor guy. I kept thinking how good he was and how hard he worked. What I was thinking about while watching everybody go up and pray was how brave he was and how such a hard worker he was."
Jared himself could wind up being a firefighter one day, he told The Herald.
"I want to be a soccer player and if I don’t make that, I want to be a graphic designer or then a firefighter."
As for his tie, Jared said he learned how to tie it from a book called, "How to Be the Best at Everything," from which he also "read how to fly a helicopter and how to make a flute out of bamboo."
The funeral for Davies was being held on Thursday. City officials told WBZ Wednesday they expected up to 12,000 mourners from Worcester and beyond to attend.
An 11-year-old boy defied his dad's orders to attend the wake of a firefighter who lost his life while looking for victims inside a burning building. WHDH-TV reports.
Firefighters said it meant so much to them that Jared came to the wake that they invited him to ride on Davies' truck during the funeral procession Thursday, reported WBZ-TV.
Jared was given a police escort home Wednesday night from the wake, NECN.com said.
Gene Flanders, Jared's dad, admitted to The Herald that he can't punish Jared for breaking house rules in this situation.
"At first I was very startled. I am not quite sure how to deal with the situation. ... I was a little surprised when I called his phone and a police officer answered it, and he happened to say how Jared rode his bike to the funeral home. We were talking about how even though what he had done was very nice, we’re trying to go back over the rules that he wasn’t supposed to leave the house," Flanders said. "He has such a big heart."
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Wow! Great story kid had alot of empathy, maybe some adults could take a lesson.
Kid runs out of the house and disappears for a lengthy time, and you want to use him as a role-model?
Eltex, sometimes you have to break the rules to get your point through. I think this kid was very brave to do such a thing. This obviously was very important to the young buck and for that, I praise his courage and demeanor. Wonderful story! My heart also goes out to the family and friends of the firefighter.
Yes... Some ideals, even for an 11 year old, are worth breaking house rules over. At his core, he needed to be a part of that group of Fire, EMS, Police, and community. He needed that so badly he put on his best outfit, and broke the rules knowing he'd probably catch the wrath of parents for it.
If all he sneaks out of his house for in his life is to thank a fallen hero... His parents will be the luckiest on the planet.
definitely. there are some rules you have to break just so you can do the right thing.
Eltex, if your son gets to ride in the lead procession for a fallen hero and then gets a police escort home, take a little time to reflect before you react. Maybe you should question how your son brings honor onto your house. If you still want to beat him, so be it, the world needs Huckleberry Finns too.
I understand where Eltex is coming from, I really do. Rules are rules, not guidelines, especially for kids that age.
That said: I am glad the dad took time to reflect on what happened and decided against punishment because the sons heart was definitely in the right place and he did his father proud (even though a house rule was broken).
As a retired firefighter, this story was cool to read and I admit it got to me a little.
Eltex, your point is well taken, but in this case, I side with the other posters and say hats off to the son. (and don't think that you can break the rules again kid...cuz it might not turn out so lucky for you next time!) :)
I wish people here would realize that even with the gesture, it was a dangerous move for that child. Worcester is a city. Not one you would want to be riding your bike at night without someone else, especially at that age. I am just glad he wasn't hurt. With that said, I am glad he was able to be part of that event.
Keep in mind, you don't actually know why the parents said no. Maybe they couldn't handle another funeral so soon. Maybe they didn't want to be in the way of the other mourners. Maybe they had reasons that couldn't be put into words.
It is indeed lovely that he did go but I hope he learns there are reasons parents say no. And just because they say no, doesn't mean you can make up your own rules. Hopefully, the parents will see the next time he asks to be part of the community like this, they will allow him to do so with them in tow.
Please understand. I am not criticizing the child or the parents. I want the audience to see that the parents were looking out for the child in Worchester, Massachusetts.
I understand what your saying Carrie, and I do not find fault with his father being concerned for his safety. On the other hand, I can imagine that his appearance and the trouble he went to go to the funeral meant a lot to the comrades of the fallen firefighter so thankfully it turned out just right.
Just curious, if the boy had been kidnapped on his way to the funeral home, would you still hold him up as a role model? Would you be critical of the parents for setting definitive rules? I love fire fighters too, but if your 11 yr old kid is sneaking out for events, there are some issues that need to be addressed.
An eleven year old can actually think for himself I have one...He or she doesn't need a lecture about riding his bike which he's probably done a hundred times with his Father, he was defiant more than anything.
He might have broken house rules, but I applaud the actions of the firefighters. They really looked after him! This is an experience this boy will remember forever. Right or wrong in his father's eyes, this boy felt compelled to go and I also feel he might have inspired many there.
I do understand all of the things that may have happened to him on the way, but when someone is determined to honor another or have such a passionate feeling about something, they are going to find a way to do it. It's a soul calling. His father was merely trying to protect him, so perhaps he should have driven the child to this wake, knowing how much Jared felt inspired to go. Children have a voice at 11 that should be heard. This may have also given more closure for his deceased brother. I was not there, but a mild reminder of house rules could be given and next time, dad, listen to your boy, he has something to say. Jared, you are going to grow up to be a very honorable man, you already are!
It says a lot on how the boy was raised as well. Despite breaking house rules (don't do it again kiddo!) his parents have obviously raised him right. Kids that are shown love and respect on a daily basis will spread that message of love to those closest to them and to complete strangers.
I am so sorry for the loss of Jon Davies. May you rest in peace sir and know that people thank you for your service.
I hope the little twerp gets grounded till the next century. His father already lost one son, who knows what kind of terror he felt when he realized the brat wasn't there.
When you have a son with so much light, you do not ground him. The father wants to protect him but this little dude has a lot to give.
Glad you're not my parent!! 'Twerp' and 'brat'?? Bet your kids have great self esteem!! Yeah, he broke a rule, but it's a good learning lesson for son and father.
Nice comment...you really add a lot to this conversation (and I'm sure most conversations you are a part of).
And just so you are clear, that's sarcasm, you twerp!
"little twerp" lmao! Ok that was funny.
Someone is PMSing BIG TIME
Another example of why some people shouldn't have kids...
I would like to knwo why his dad was too busy to help his son do something worthwhile. We need more people like this kid in our society.
As stated above, perhaps the funeral was too soon for the father and mother. Just lost one child. Sometimes mourning lasts a month, sometimes a year. depends on the person.
Looks like the little guy got some of the bravery of his brother. yeah, I know he was a step brother, but they were still brothers. i know when my son died, his step brothers were as shaken as if it had been one of them.
RIP brave souls.
Twerp? Brat???? Gia please tell me that you are practicing safe sex! DO NOT breed!!!!!
What a stand up little dude. A lot of adults surely could learn from him.
Your post made me smile...and expressed exactly what I felt..... how could a parent not be proud of a lil guy like that?
this little guy is amazing,that he actually has the maturity to recognize what this firefighter sacrificed in the line of duty,i wish more people (the media)would recognize what people have done for their fellow men,like the death of a medal of honor recipient that passed away in boise idaho,with not so much as 10 seconds of time to give tribute to this amazing viet nam vet. CAPT.ED FREEMAN,USAF
Thank you, Jared, for being so grown up! Tell you Dad next time...I bet he'll come support you! A true inspiration this time of year!
An 11 year old role model for all ages
Awesome kid! God Bless him and his family! My condolences to the firefighter and his family and friends.
Nice kid, hope he stays that way. If I were his parent, I would be very proud.
a touching story
glad he won't be punished,but he needs a refrsher about the rules
When I was 11, my parents couldn't wait for me to go outside by myself. Of course we were taught about what kind of human monsters (though they were fewer) were out there and behaved accordingly.
There have always been the same percentage. It wasn't spoken about as often nor did news articles report on it around the country. In the 50's kidnapping and the child never being found was more common than now because more children played outside unattended.
Why wasn't his dad willing to take him to the funeral home? Sounds like dad needs a little coaching in the parenting business. Listen to your kids, don't just make black and white rules. This kid will be a good adult.
could it be his dad was working to bring food to their home? why do you assume that the father didn't allow the kid to go to the wake? it doesn't state that in the article, it states that the father didn't allow him to go outside by himself, but the kid probably never really asked dad about going...read the article..
maybe he didnt mention it to his dad, figured he wouldnt let him go, nice story nice kid,but how about the dad not knowing where his son is,cant imagin the feeling ,if dad wasnt there should have @ least left a note
There could be so many reasons why the dad didn't want him to go. Maybe the dad didn't think his son was old enough to handle a funeral for a stranger. Maybe his dad realized how hard the death of the boy's brother had been on him and he was trying to protect him. Maybe the dad himself doesn't do well at funerals. The 11 year old's brother just died this past summer. maybe the dad thought it was too soon. I don't know what his reasoning was, but I do know that there are countless reasons why a parent would not want their child to go to the funeral of a "stranger" even if that stranger is a decorated hero.
I wish all kids were like this. Not like the self-absorbed brats people are raising these days.
Why does someone always have to go there with any story mentioning a kid? Why the need to go out of your way to condemn the children of this world and their parents? There have always been good kids, thoughtful kids, brats, spoiled kids and bullies. Today is no different. You might find it enlightening to actually spend time with large numbers of kids and get to know them -- you might be surprised.
You may be surprised to know I DO spend a lot of time with kids, hence my (right to to have this) opinion.
Actually if you look at it he is self absorbed. He wanted to go to the funeral and he went. Never mind how frightened his parents would be when he was unaccounted for. Never mind any regard for his safety.
If he were my child he would be punished. It would be a light punishment, admittedly, but he has to know that even if you know something is right in your heart and you go against the rules there will be consequences. Adults make rules for your safety not just to make you miserable.
With that said I can't help but want to hug the little brat...
Self absorbed, really that's your definition. If he was your child he would lack the human compassion or desire to want to reach out to the community. He would be too scared to venture a mile from home on a bike.
Wonderful young man and a wonderful father. Clearly the child learned about empathy at home.
thumbs down!
Jared, I want to congratulate you on being such a young little man, but being a father of a kid the same than yours and actually same name, I can't stop thinking about your dad feeling upset because you disobeyed him. I don't think you need to be punished for your actions, but if you had empathy for the fallen firefighter, show empathy for your parents too. Talk to them, keep the communication channel open, and if they don't do that, you already shown enough maturity to do it. Last year my kid almost got lost in an amusement park, and let me tell you, the feeling you get when somebody tells you they can't find your son, it's something I don't wish upon anybody, not even my worst enemy, so just continue being good, but make sure your parents know where you are. Be safe.
Jared, you're awesome! Not many kids your age have a heart like yours. God Bless You. Don't ever change. We need alot more humans like you. The kindness & compassion you showed everyone, it is wonderful. Maybe those that read this article.... it will change their hearts. Dad, you have raised a good son. Keep up the good work.
Going to go against the current and say that he should have been punished. We could have been reading about a little boy that had been kidnapped, raped, and killed while traveling alone to a funeral.
Children should not be completely stiffled of course, but I agree with my mom's stay within sight or scream-for-help-is-heard distance.
Kindness is not always rewarded.
Ok, you do realize that children are FAR MORE likely to be injured/raped/killed by people they know, right? The only reason we hear so much about "stranger danger" cases is because they are so rare and the media seizes on them. The kid's 11. Old enough to know how to cross the street and old enough to know to scream for help in the rare event there should be an actual threat. I'm a bleeding heart liberal and pretty jaded about human nature, but wrapping our kids in bubble wrap and teaching them to fear the wider world is not the way to go.
What people fail to realize is that there is no greater stranger danger than there used to be in the past, there are not more pedophiles and kidnappers than there used to be either. The problem is media saturation of those tragedies when they do happen. The best thing that we can do is teach them to be safe and aware of where they are and who they interact with. We are frightening children to the point where they will not talk to, or ask for help from, ANY adult. And it seems that more and more parents are falling victim to the fear, too. The child in the article had a cell phone and the father was able to easily contact him. It is illogical, I think, to speculate on the "what-ifs" here. None of those horrible things happened (and statistically weren't likely to). For the record, I am a parent and a teacher. I have seen the best and worst when it comes to kids, and stranger danger, while present, is not the greatest hazard or challenge facing kids and parents these days. Domestic violence, drugs and poverty just to name a few...
what a non story.
Why did you wast your time on a "non story"? Furthermore why waste your time commenting? Very odd.
This is news??? Hardly.
Obviously it is "news". You read the article and made a comment. The question is are you sane??? Hardly.
You and Sabine both read it.
Why not news? Because it's not about death and violence? It's nice to have a heartwarming story that restores a bit faith in the act of human kindness.
Jared has learned a very adult lesson here: Sometimes the right thing to do is against the rules.
What a great kid! A ray of hope. . . maybe there are more like him that we just aren't hearing about. And, congratulations to his parents.
Dad (and mom?) Flanders seem to have a done a good job so far.
I suspect the military will have to add basic savoir vivre in their training...something that seems to have been lost in the last two generations...
To you guys in the photo...very bad taste...very poor judgment ...very much lack of respect...towards your fellow fallen...it's a no brainer...and guess what...Yep...you're right...you're not in the right career...they should say ...goodbye to you all..
Sorry...this comment was ment for the pic with a soldier in a steel coffin...
Yeah, they can add another week of "savoir vivre" training to basic training - right after the week of "sensitivity training" the Army added several years ago. Just what we need - a military full of sensitive types.
Miker - "Just what we need - a military full of sensitive types."
As opposed to what? Rogue soldiers who kill innocent, unarmed civilians for the fun of it? Soldiers who take pictures of themselves smiling and laughing next to enemy captives in degrading positions?
Obviously, they need more sensitivity training. Some soldiers, through their actions in Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, and Japan, have made the rest of our military, was well as our entire nation, look bad.
War is an ugly thing. While some actions have gone a bit overboard from the civilian's perspective, you cannot field a military filled with people who find warfare emotionally unbearable. The photograph in question, my friend, is NOTHING compared to the sight of body parts strewn all over the scene of an IED explosion or body parts that you personally blew apart in an ambush or raid. I'm not promoting warfare, but if you're going to wage war you need troops who are both physically AND mentally capable of doing the job - and then returning to some sense of normalcy when the job is done. Judging from the cases of PTSD we see from Iraq and Afghanistan, I'm not sure the answer is to make our troops even more susceptible to emotional damage than they already are.
One option would be to simply not send troops anywhere. But, I don't think we're quite there yet. If we're going to send troops to war, we need to prepare them for war. Not train them to take inoffensive class photos (which is actually about what the picture in question amounts to).
This boy has a tender heart. God bless you, Jared.
Stand up young man. He knew he'd catch hell at home, made his choice to thank a fallen hero and take the punishment he assumed would come later. Yes, you take a risk being 11 and venturing a mile from home on your own. He evaluated it and decided the risk was worth the trip. Some things you just have to do in life and accept the risk. Sounds like he was at one of those moments in his young life.
If my daughter sneaks out of the house, I can only hope this is the kind of thing she sneaks out to do! I'd be lucky, any parent would!
I wouldn't be surprised if it was also a way to continue dealing with the loss of his brother.
The world could learn alot from Jared, this child understands loss and honor, something many people do not.
All of you people saying this kid did the wrong thing and should be punished, don't be surprised when you raise a kid who sucks at everything and / or hates you.
This kid is obviously doing it right.
In my opinion, he should be punished for breaking house rules. Rules are Rules period and they are made for a reason. In this day in age, anything could have happened; thankfully in this case it didn't.
I know. If he had been hit by a car or kidnapped everyone would be on this board ranting about how the parents obviously have no parenting skills or the kid would have understood the rules and not left the house.
Thats right Sharon....no good deed goes unpunished.....thats the lesson we want our children to learn...zero tolerance to everything...all the time. Posts like yours make me sad.
The kid IS 10 years old. I'm pretty sure by now he can cross a street by himself and has sense enough not to get into a car with a stranger, etc. Rules are a poor substitute for education.
The majority opinion here seems to be that when kids disobey parental orders they should be praised. That same majority opinion is the one that says kids today don't have discipline.
What if the kid had gone to the funeral of someone who had started a house fire who subsequently died in it? Does the nature of the death qualify the disobedience as good or bad?
The fact that the kid got back home safely does not make this an example of childhood obedience. And if you think childhood obedience is just clap-trap, then don't complain about those folks who feel breaking the law is their god-given right.