On the evening of December 24th 1953 two Ellicott City police officers came across a fire at 4020 Old Columbia Pike. They alerted the occupants of the home and the Ellicott City Fire Department who promptly responded and initiated suppression efforts. In 1953 however, the municipal water system had not been extended very far outside of Ellicott City proper, and the size of the fire proved to be more than the suppression capabilities of the apparatus's onboard water tanks. The fire eventually gained the upper hand and the home was a total loss. While picking up hose after the fire, a chimney collapsed on top of four Ellicott City firefighters, resulting in the LODD of two Ellicott City Volunteers, Lt. Stigler & FF Ditch.

Charles Ditch was 44 years old at the time of his death. He joined the department in June 1931 and rose the rank of Captain. He left behind a wife and young daughter, Beverly, who went on to serve more than 40 years in HCDFRS. Joseph Stigler was 34 years old when he died in the line of duty. He joined the department in December of 1937 and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. Lt. Stigler left behind a wife and three small children including his son, Joseph Junior, who was born just a few days after his father was killed.

To honor the sacrifice of these two individuals, every year ECVFD places a wreath at each of their final resting places around the time of their passing. Over the years this has occurred in many different ways. One tradition is to gather as an organization on the morning of the fire, December 24th (Christmas Eve) to pay our respects and honor their sacrifice.